AIɫɫ

This year’s Faculty Excellence Award is presented to Jordan Murrey, assistant professor of plastics engineering technology, College of Business and Engineering Technology. The award is presented to a faculty member that has made meaningful contributions to the campus community in the past academic year in teaching and either research or service. Nominated by student Joslynn Beneke, Murrey is recognized for his innovative, hands-on teaching approach that integrates lecture and lab instruction to enhance student learning and real-world application.

"Professor Murrey creates an engaging and supportive learning environment where students can immediately apply what they learn,” said Beneke. “By combining lecture with hands-on experience, he makes complex concepts easier to understand and builds confidence in the lab. His commitment to student success and mentorship truly sets him apart.”

The Staff Excellence Award is presented this year to Dr. Lindsay Monihen, field and clinical coordinator, School of Education. The award is presented to a staff member who has made meaningful contributions to the campus community in the past academic year in student success, service, and assessment. Nominated by assistant dean and director of the School of Education Dr. Gay Lynn Shipley, Monihen is recognized for her leadership in clinical placements, student support, and continuous program improvement.

"Dr. Monihen’s work exemplifies the kind of student-centered commitment that defines AIɫɫ,” said Shipley. "Through her leadership in field and clinical experiences, she not only strengthens partnerships across our region but also ensures each preservice teacher feels supported, prepared, and confident. Her dedication to student success, both inside and outside the classroom, has made a lasting impact on our students and the communities they serve.”

This year’s Campus Impact Award is presented to Dr. Christine Raber. The award is presented to a faculty or staff member who had made a significant positive impact on the campus community over the past academic year in collaboration, leadership, innovation, inclusion and belonging, support of the university’s mission through programming, productive community engagement, or meaningful mentorship. Nominated by Becky Baldridge, dean’s assistant in the College of Health and Human Services, Dr. Raber was recognized for her collaborative leadership, commitment to inclusion, and dedication to a supportive and mission-driven campus environment.

“Dr. Raber leads with heart and a genuine commitment to the people around her,” said Baldridge. “She brings people together, ensures every voice is valued, and creates a culture of respect, growth, and shared purpose. Her leadership has made a lasting impact on our college and the university as a whole.”