Special moments highlight Trine’s annual faculty awards

This year’s annual year-end awards ceremony for Trine University faculty, held prior to Commencement on May 3, included two special moments of recognition for those who have served the university.

Tony Kline, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs, read comments from Brandy DePriest, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Humanities and Communication, honoring Ana Boman.

Boman, a longtime Spanish lecturer at the university and advisor for the Sigma Delta Pi Spanish honor society, passed away April 16.

“She was passionate about this university and its programs and was devoted to guiding students successfully into the world,” Kline read. “While the book of her life was far too short, it contains many, many beautiful, exciting, and even surprising chapters. She will be deeply missed by students and co-workers alike.”

Kline also presented a proclamation from the faculty to Gretchen Miller, senior vice president and chief of staff, recognizing her work at the university.

The proclamation praised Miller for her “remarkable leadership, steadfast dedication, and lasting contributions to our university community.”

“Throughout her tenure, Gretchen has exemplified clarity, effectiveness and unwavering commitment to the success of our students, faculty and staff,” the proclamation read, in part. “Her success in securing critical grant funding has advanced our programs in meaningful ways, expanding opportunities for innovation, collaboration and student achievement.”

“Gretchen leads with purpose, integrity, and a deep belief in the transformative power of higher education. Her work has made us stronger, more connected, and better equipped to serve the next generation of leaders.”

McKetta-Smith Excellence in Teaching

The McKetta-Smith Excellence in Teaching Awards were established for the faculty by Trustee Emeritus John J. McKetta, Ph.D., in 1989.

The recipient of the Charles & Sue Ragan Gelet Excellence in Teaching Award was Gary Greene, Ph.D., professor in the Reiners Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Greene also was the recipient of the Professor Gerald H. Moore Overall Excellence in Teaching Award.

Henry Yukevich, assistant professor in the Department of Humanities and Communications, received the Helen Smith McKetta Excellence in Teaching Award.

The Robert Andrew and Anne Ewing Smith Excellence in Teaching Award was presented to Eric Goddard, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Psychology and Social Science.

The recipient of the Robert Ewing & Gail Stewart Smith Excellence in Teaching Award was Hong Park, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Science.

Nicole Edmonds, associate professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, was the recipient of the Merle J. & Anna Mae McKetta Thomas Excellence in Teaching Award.

Marek Kolar, Ph.D., associate professor in the Ketner School of Business, was recognized with the Charles William, Nelle Paris, & Mary Ann McKetta Excellence in Teaching Award.

The recipient of the Steve & Mary Yacynch McKetta Excellence in Teaching Award was Allen Hersel, Ph.D., professor in the McKetta Department of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering.

Tom Trusty, associate professor in the Department of Design and Engineering Technology, received the Frank & Julia Gelet McKetta Excellence in Teaching Award.

The recipient of the John J. & Mary Gelet McKetta Excellence in Teaching Award was Stephen Carr, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Additional awards

Brittany Winn was honored as the Outstanding Adjunct Award for Angola Campus in recognition of teaching excellence and exceptional service to the university.

Emily Chancellor, administrative assistant for the Rinker-Ross School of Health Sciences, was named the winner of the Service Award, which recognizes an individual who has committed an extraordinary amount of time, resources and dedication to the betterment of Trine University.

Michael Smith, assistant professor in the Department of Mathematics, received the Faculty Scholarship Award, honoring an individual who has gone well beyond regular duties and has dedicated much time and effort to produce quality scholarly work as a faculty member at Trine University.

The OER Excellence Award, presented to individuals who have shown outstanding commitment to effectively incorporate open, affordable education resources for students, was given to Josh Lizardi, assistant professor in the Department of Mathematics, and Kelsey Walker, instructor in the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.

The Barrenbrugge Award for Faculty Excellence was presented to Jeanette Goddard, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Humanities and Communication. The award is based on excellence in teaching, achievement in research or other scholarly endeavors, and service to the university.

The Jannen Renaissance Scholar Award, given for exhibiting a breadth of interest and accomplishment consistent with Renaissance ideals and encouraging students and faculty to aspire to such breadth, was presented to Anna Glowinski, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Science.

Christopher Carlin, Ed.D, PA-C, associate professor in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program, received the Excellence in Teaching award for the Brooks College of Health Professions.

Bill Barry, Ph.D., was recognized for his valued service as dean of the Allen School of Engineering and Computing as he prepares to transition back to a classroom role.

Catherine Benson, dean of the Ketner School of Business, was recognized for five years of service as dean.