For more than 30 years, The 91×ÔĹÄ Faculty Field Tour has been an invaluable opportunity for new faculty members to become immersed in Washington state’s diverse communities, natural wonders and vital heritage. This year, a group of 35 faculty participants got a direct look at the UW’s impact across the state by taking a five-day bus tour, covering more than 1,000 miles.

The group’s journey began on June 15, as faculty members arrived at the UW’s Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture in Seattle before setting off that morning. The bus flooded with curiosity and a kaleidoscope of perspectives, eager about the possibility of connection and new knowledge.

Day one of the tour consisted of stops around the Port of Tacoma; the Washington State Capitol in Olympia, where the group met with Lt. Gov. Denny Heck; and the Mount St. Helens Interpretive Center, until reaching the Heathman Lodge in Vancouver, Washington.

As the day ended, faculty members sat down to have a conversation with UW Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Tricia Serio.

“People gain confidence in colleges and universities when they see them solving problems, partnering with communities and improving lives close to home,” Serio wrote in an about the Faculty Field Tour published by the Spokesman-Review. “While these new faculty come from a variety of backgrounds, interests and expertise, they share two things with each other and with everyone they meet along the tour — a belief in the possible and a commitment to making an impact now and long into the future.”

As the tour continued, the group made its way to the . The UW remains essential to the agricultural heartland of Washington, and the YVFWC is no exception, being one of the largest community health centers in the nation. With a few more stops, the day concluded with an evening conversation with UW President Robert J. Jones.

As the tour resumed on day three, President Jones joined the group at Schoesler Farms, the Ritzville wheat farm owned by Sen. Mark Schoesler and his family. Jones reflected on what the University strives for and the role it plays within our nearby communities.

“The 91×ÔĹÄ is dedicated to serving communities across every corner of the state,” Jones said. “The Faculty Field Tour gave me a firsthand look at the people, industries and organizations that make Washington such a special place. From visiting Sen. Schoesler’s wheat farm and learning about the challenges facing farmers to meeting with students, alumni and community leaders in Spokane, I was reminded of the strong connections between the University and the communities we serve. For our newest faculty members, the tour emphasized how deeply their teaching, 91×ÔĹÄ and service are connected to the University’s public mission.”

In the following days, other tour highlights included the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), Grand Coulee Dam, the Colville Tribal Museum and more.

“The Faculty Field Tour is a truly special, once-in-a-lifetime experience for new faculty. Over the course of the trip, you learn about the history, geography and culture of Washington, and you experience it alongside an amazing group of colleagues who quickly become friends,” said Samantha Reznik, assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences.

“Along the way, you’ll connect with communities across the state, gain a deeper appreciation for the people and places that make Washington unique and help welcome the newest UW undergraduates from eastern Washington. It’s an unforgettable way to start your journey at the 91×ÔĹÄ.”

See more photos from this year’s tour below.

The 91×ÔĹÄ’s Awards of Excellence celebrates exceptional alumni, faculty, staff, students and retirees who embody the public mission at the heart of the University.

On June 11, Meany Hall welcomed colleagues, friends and family members to honor this year’s recipients at the 56th annual ceremony. President Robert J. Jones hosted the ceremony for the first time, presenting the recipients with their medals and sharing celebratory remarks alongside UW Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Tricia Serio.

Read about the extraordinary 2026 recipients below and take a look at some photos from the event.

2026 Awards of Excellence Recipients

Distinguished Staff Award for Career Achievement

Danielle Woodward, Assistant Director, Social Development Research Group, School of Social Work

Since beginning her UW career in 1994 as a data collector, Danielle co-founded the Survey Research Division and built a nationally respected data enterprise. She now leads a 35‑person team that generates about $2 million annually, with longitudinal study retention exceeding 85%. Known as a compassionate and visionary leader, her mentorship, collaboration and commitment to excellence underpin the group’s lasting success.

Distinguished Staff Award for Collaboration

Traci Townsend, Program Operations Specialist III, Wireless Design and Architecture, UW Information Technology

As a program operations specialist, Traci oversees the complex Wi‑Fi infrastructure across all UW campuses and medical centers, ensuring reliable connectivity for thousands of users. Known as “Traci Wi‑Fi” for her expertise, she collaborates with vendors, finance teams and partners throughout the University, leading complex deployments and sharing solutions across the UW-IT system.

Distinguished Staff Award for Impact

Lisa Norton, Director of Licensing, Physical Sciences & Engineering, CoMotion

Through her more than 20 years of service, Lisa has guided UW 91×ÔĹÄ teams through technology commercialization that delivers societal, economic and health impacts. She helped expand CoMotion’s work and negotiated a landmark licensing agreement benefiting the UW, innovators, investors and patients. Known as an exceptional technology licensor, Lisa’s work has improved lives across Washington state and the world.

Distinguished Staff Award for Inclusion and Belonging

Angela Ott, Fiscal Specialist, Payee, Mental Health and Addiction Services, Harborview Medical Center

Angela embodies the values of inclusion and belonging through her compassion and respect for every client and colleague at Harborview Mental Health and Addiction Services. She consistently supports unhoused and vulnerable populations with patience and humility, while fostering a clinic culture rooted in empathy, human connection, trust and teamwork in keeping with Harborview’s mission.

Distinguished Staff Award for Innovation

Undergraduate Advising Centralization Leadership Team, Office of Student Academic Success, UW Bothell

Claire Grant, Assistant Director of Advising

Garick Sherburn, Assistant Director of Advising

Nhi Phuong Tran, Assistant Director of Advising

Jessica Trenkamp, Assistant Director of Advising

Suzanne Yates, Assistant Dean

This team reimagined student success by leading a bold, campus-wide transformation to centralize undergraduate advising. In one year, they united 26 staff into a single collaborative unit, cross-trained advisers, established shared policies, launched an online system to connect students and advisers, and created a new professional adviser career ladder. Their work has improved equity, retention and students’ experience.

David B. Thorud Leadership Award

Suzanne Allen, Vice Dean, Academic, Rural and Regional Affairs, School of Medicine

As the nation’s largest and most geographically complex medical education program, WWAMI serves five states and hundreds of partners. With her collaborative, equity-centered leadership, Suzanne has built innovative regional partnerships, strengthened rural health education, safeguarded state funding and guided curriculum and strategic planning to shape regional medical education.

David B. Thorud Leadership Award

Santhi Perumal, Vice Chancellor, Planning & Administration, UW Bothell, recognized for her work at the UW College of Education on the Seattle campus

Santhi is a visionary, people-centered leader whose work blends strategic insight, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to equity, transparency and care. At the UW College of Education, Santhi led transformative innovations that were adopted across the 91×ÔĹÄ in Seattle, expanded community-engaged doctoral education, strengthened facilities planning, elevated fiscal transparency, and fostered a culture of trust, mentorship and shared leadership.

Distinguished Librarian Award

John Vallier, Curator, Ethnomusicology Archives, Special Collections, University Libraries

John has transformed access to and preservation of the UW Ethnomusicology Archives, one of North America’s largest collections of its kind. He secured nearly $1 million to digitize and protect fragile, at‑risk recordings — which created more interdisciplinary access. He also led UW Libraries’ largest repatriation effort, returning more than 30,000 items through ethical, community-centered collaboration and stewardship.

UW Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award

Gregg Blodgett, ’76, Michael G. Foster School of Business and College of Arts & Sciences; President, UW Alumni Association (ret.)

Since graduating from the UW in 1976, Gregg has been a longtime Alumni Association volunteer and leader who served as UWAA president during a pivotal period of institutional growth and closer integration with the University. A trusted mentor to successive UWAA board leaders, Gregg’s guidance has strengthened alumni engagement and governance for nearly two decades.

UW Alumni Association Distinguished Retiree Excellence in Community Service Award

Sandy Moy, Chief Operating Officer, University Computing Services (ret.)

After more than 20 years in computing and communications at the UW, Sandy retired in 2008 as the chief operating officer from what is now UW-IT. A founding volunteer and longtime leader of Northwest Neighbors Network, Sandy helped that organization grow from 20 to 400 members. As one of the network’s most dedicated volunteers, Sandy contributes about 3,000 hours each year supporting seniors and adults with disabilities.

Distinguished Teaching Award

Megan Callow, Teaching Professor, English, College of Arts & Sciences

Megan is the founding director of Writing@UW, a program that fosters a tri‑campus culture of writing and centralized support for faculty who teach writing. She models reflective, learner‑centered pedagogy that emphasizes metacognition, rhetorical agency and belonging, particularly in STEM contexts. Megan’s impact extends through faculty development, graduate instructor mentoring and nationally recognized scholarship on writing pedagogy.

Distinguished Teaching Award

Hannah Jordt, Associate Teaching Professor, Genome Sciences, School of Medicine

By following high‑intensity active learning and growth‑mindset practices, Hannah creates inclusive, evidence‑based learning environments in large STEM courses. She builds community through personalized outreach, peer‑facilitator programs, and mentorship of graduate students and faculty. Beyond her classroom, she advances equitable genetics education through discipline‑based education 91×ÔĹÄ and national service.

Distinguished Teaching Award

Wes King, Assistant Teaching Professor, Information School

Wes designs courses that invite students to critically examine social, ethical and cultural tensions around information, technology, identity and power. Through experiential assignments and inclusive pedagogy, Wes encourages active learning and courageous dialogue. In addition, Wes builds strong teaching communities by mentoring teaching assistants and modeling reflective, socially responsible teaching practices.

Distinguished Teaching Award

Jill Purdy, Professor; Director, Entrepreneurship Center; Milgard School of Business, UW Tacoma

As an award-winning educator with more than 30 years of experience, Jill is renowned for her reflective, student-centered teaching. She fosters inclusive, engaging classrooms; designs accessible materials; and leads community-engaged, real-world learning. Jill mentors faculty and builds cross-disciplinary connections that strengthen teaching culture and student success through campus-wide entrepreneurship initiatives and mentoring.

Distinguished Teaching Award

Georgia M. Roberts, Lecturer, American Ethnic Studies, School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, UW Bothell

To help students connect their coursework to lived experiences, Georgia creates transformative, inclusive learning environments that blend interdisciplinary scholarship, critical inquiry and reflective practice. Georgia is recognized across UW Bothell for exceptional mentorship and innovative impact achieved through inclusive, anti-racist teaching at the intersection of literature, hip-hop and ethnic studies.

Distinguished Teaching Award

Casey J. Self, Teaching Professor, Biology, College of Arts & Sciences

Casey’s evidence‑based, growth‑oriented teaching practices emphasize reflection and learning as an iterative process. She creates highly structured, learner‑driven classrooms focused on the “why” behind concepts and empowers student inquiry. Her impact extends beyond the classroom through extensive service, including chairing the Faculty Council on Teaching & Learning and advancing University‑wide teaching effectiveness.

Distinguished Teaching Team Award

Collier-Otten-Spiker Food Systems Teaching Team, School of Public Health

Sarah Collier, Assistant Professor, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences

Jennifer Otten, Professor, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences

Marie Spiker, Assistant Professor, Epidemiology

Through their collaboratively designed courses, this team has built and sustained an interdisciplinary teaching partnership that anchors the food systems, nutrition, and health major. Grounded in civic health principles, their teaching and mentorship helps their students reach the nuanced understanding of complex food system topics that will advance their leadership throughout their careers.

Distinguished Teaching Team Award

Community-Engaged Civil Engineering and Urban Design Capstone Team, UW Tacoma

Nara Almeida, Assistant Teaching Professor, Civil Engineering, School of Engineering & Technology

Bára Šafářová, Assistant Professor, Urban Design, School of Urban Studies

This team immerses students in real-life challenges that nurture not only technical competence but also civic responsibility. One example is their interdisciplinary capstone course in which civil engineering and urban design students work directly with University partners, city stakeholders and local firms to help create a new vision for UW Tacoma’s 2050 comprehensive plan.

Distinguished Teaching Legacy Award  

Edward D. Lazowska, Bill & Melinda Gates Chair Emeritus, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering

With a teaching legacy that spans more than five decades, Ed has mentored generations of students, future faculty and technology leaders. Beyond the classroom, he powerfully communicated the value of the University and the Allen School to civic, business and political leaders. While leading transformative growth in computer science, he remained deeply committed to teaching and advising Ph.D. students whose global influence endures.

Excellence in Teaching Award

Rachael Herren, Doctoral Candidate, Theatre History and Performance Studies, School of Drama

Rachael’s theater classrooms are supportive spaces for rehearsing the complexity of adult life. She embraces practices such as “speaking in drafts” to encourage revision, risk-taking and confidence. She encourages undergraduate scholarship, and many of her students present their 91×ÔĹÄ at University and national conferences. Rachael also demonstrates exceptional teaching leadership across multiple instructional roles while mentoring new graduate instructors.

Excellence in Teaching Award

Jennifer Zheng, Doctoral Candidate, Communication, College of Arts & Sciences

Jennifer has served in a variety of teaching roles, including instructor of record and lead teaching assistant for large‑enrollment courses. She supports undergraduate 91×ÔĹÄ, in addition to developing curriculum and training instructors in community‑based public speaking and debate programs. Jennifer’s reflective, experiential pedagogy connects theory to real‑world contexts to empower students’ confidence, critical thinking and academic growth.

Distinguished Contributions to Lifelong Learning Award

Rebecca M. Price, Professor, School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, UW Bothell

Grounded in mentoring, reflection and inclusive practice, Rebecca has created inclusive, evidence‑based learning environments for undergraduates, adult learners and future faculty across disciplines. As one nominator wrote, Rebecca’s “contributions demonstrate that lifelong learning is not an add-on to academic life, but a guiding principle that shapes teaching, mentoring, scholarship and service.”

University Faculty Lecture Award

Noah A. Smith, Professor, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering; Charles and Lisa Simonyi Endowed Chair, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies; Vice Provost, Artificial Intelligence

Recognized as an international leader in natural language processing and artificial intelligence, Noah has helped shape modern language modeling, machine learning methodology and computational social science. He is widely recognized for advancing responsible, sustainable “Green AI” through open 91×ÔĹÄ and replicability, and is an engaging public speaker who makes complex AI concepts accessible to broad audiences. Noah will present a lecture in 2027.

Excellence in Global Engagement Award

James Sherrell, Program Specialist, EthnoMed, Harborview Medical Center

Through community partnerships and teaching cross‑cultural care, James is strengthening communication and cultural competency across UW Medicine. When he redesigned EthnoMed, James centered the needs of immigrant and refugee communities — and, at the same time, expanded experiential learning for UW students, residents and clinicians. As one colleague wrote, James’ work reflects his belief that global engagement begins in one’s own backyard.

Marsha L. Landolt Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award

Anjum Hajat, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, School of Public Health

Over her career, Anjum has chaired 31 graduate committees — and served on 31 more. She has mentored more than 90 graduate students and postdoctoral scholars. Anjum exemplifies the highest standards of graduate mentorship through sustained, holistic support that centers students and their voices to encourage their academic, professional and personal development.

Outstanding Public Service Award

Scott Bingham, Executive Director, Computing and Productivity Platforms, UW Information Technology

Beyond his leadership role at the UW, Scott founded Housing Solutions for Hope to support families facing housing instability during their ch ildren’s medical care. He leads a volunteer‑run guild that has raised more than $1 million, helping over 250 families and building trusted community partnerships that address housing as a critical factor in positive health outcomes and lives.

Distinguished Alumni Veteran Award

Elizabeth Bridges, ’91, ’98, School of Nursing; Colonel, U.S. Air Force Nurse Corps (ret.)

A national leader in military and critical care nursing, Elizabeth transformed care for critically ill and injured service members, particularly in aeromedical evacuation. An inspiring mentor, she challenged nurses, officers and professionals to exceed their own expectations. Through leadership and example, she continues to develop future nurse leaders across military medicine and academic nursing communities.

President’s Medal

Julia Grace Lee, ’26, School of Nursing

Julia earned her degree in nursing and graduated with a perfect 4.0. As a Seattle native, she was drawn to the UW to stay connected to the communities that shaped her. She has studied Mandarin Chinese and Japanese to deepen her ability to connect with patients. And she has conducted honors 91×ÔĹÄ in music-based interventions for dementia patients. She will be starting as an intensive care unit nurse at Swedish Medical Center.

President’s Medal

Tom McAlister, ’26, School of Art + Art History + Design, College of Arts & Sciences

Tom transferred to the 91×ÔĹÄ from Tacoma Community College and has maintained a perfect academic record at the UW. He graduated as an art major and a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society. He is also the recipient of the prestigious Bonderman Fellowship, which will allow him to travel the world and further explore the question of how humans and their relationship to art can change the world.

UW Alumni Association Alumna Summa Laude Dignata

Mary Brunkow, ’83, College of Arts & Sciences; Distinguished Investigator and Senior Program Manager, Institute for Systems Biology

An internationally recognized scientist, Mary was awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for co‑discovering the FOXP3 gene, a foundational breakthrough that has transformed understanding of regulatory T-cells and immune tolerance. Her work has advanced treatments for autoimmune disease, cancer and transplant rejection, reflecting extraordinary global impact and lifelong commitment to scientific service. She also served as the University’s 2026 commencement ceremony speaker.

Photo gallery

The awardees will be honored at a ceremony in Meany Hall on Thursday, June 11 at 3:30 p.m. The program includes a one-hour ceremony hosted by President Robert J. Jones and Provost Tricia Serio, followed by a reception with refreshments and community connection.

The 91×ÔĹÄ is committed to providing access and accommodation in its services, programs and activities. To make a request connected to a disability or health condition, contact University Marketing & Communications at 206-616-8160 or via email.

2026 awardees

Distinguished Staff Award

Established in 1997, the Distinguished Staff Award honors outstanding staff members who contribute to the missions of their units and the University, respond creatively to challenges, maintain the highest standards in their work, establish productive relationships with colleagues, and promote a respectful and supportive workplace. This year, awardees are being honored in the following categories: career achievement; collaboration; impact; inclusion and belonging; and innovation.

Career Achievement

Danielle Woodward, Assistant Director, Social Development Research Group, School of Social Work

Collaboration

Traci Townsend, Program Operations Specialist III, Wireless Design and Architecture, UW Information Technology

Impact

Lisa Norton, Director of Licensing, Physical Sciences & Engineering, CoMotion

Inclusion and Belonging

Angela Ott, Fiscal Specialist, Payee, Mental Health and Addiction Services, Harborview Medical Center

Innovation

Undergraduate Advising Centralization Leadership Team, UW Bothell

Claire Grant, Assistant Director of Advising, Navigate 360, Undergraduate Academic Advising, UW Bothell
Garick Sherburn, Assistant Director of Advising, Marketing and Communications, Undergraduate Academic Advising, UW Bothell
Nhi Phuong Tran, Assistant Director of Advising, First Year Programs, Undergraduate Academic Advising, UW Bothell
Jessica Trenkamp, Assistant Director of Advising, Hiring and Training, Undergraduate Academic Advising, UW Bothell
Suzanne Yates, Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Academic Advising, UW Bothell

David B. Thorud Leadership Award

The David B. Thorud Leadership Award is given to one UW faculty member and one staff member who demonstrate exceptional abilities to lead, serve, inspire and collaborate. First bestowed in 2006, the award is named in honor of David B. Thorud, who served the University in leadership positions for 25 years.

Suzanne Allen, Vice Dean, Academic, Rural and Regional Affairs, School of Medicine
Santhi Perumal, Vice Chancellor, Planning & Administration, UW Bothell

Distinguished Librarian Award

Established in 2008, the Distinguished Librarian Award recognizes excellence in librarianship, especially as it benefits the academic community through teaching, 91×ÔĹÄ, learning and innovative approaches to practice.

John Vallier, Curator, Ethnomusicology Archives, Special Collections, University Libraries

Distinguished Service Award

Since 1970, this award has honored a UW Alumni Association group or member who positively impacts both the Alumni Association and the larger 91×ÔĹÄ community.

Gregg Blodgett, ’76, Michael G. Foster School of Business and College of Arts & Sciences; CFO, Phamis, Inc. (ret.)

Distinguished Retiree Excellence in Community Service Award

This award is given to a faculty or staff retiree for the quality of the individual’s contributions, after retirement, in service to the community locally, regionally, nationally or internationally.

Sandy Moy, Director, University Computing Services (ret.)

Distinguished Teaching Award

Recipients of the Distinguished Teaching Award are chosen based on the degree to which they exemplify an iterative, reflective teaching practice with evidence of pedagogical experimentation and refinement over time; commitment to inclusive teaching and mentoring and valuing students’ experiences; dedication to creating transformative learning experiences that foster deep reflection and critical inquiry; and service as a mentor, collaborator and consultant on teaching-related matters to other faculty or teaching assistants.

Megan Callow, Teaching Professor, English, College of Arts & Sciences
Hannah Jordt, Associate Teaching Professor, Genome Sciences, School of Medicine
Wes King, Assistant Teaching Professor, Information School
Jill Purdy, Professor, Milgard School of Business, UW Tacoma
Georgia M. Roberts, Lecturer, American Ethnic Studies, School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, UW Bothell
Casey J. Self, Teaching Professor, Biology, College of Arts & Sciences

Collier-Otten-Spiker Food Systems Teaching Team

Sarah Collier, Assistant Professor, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health; Core Faculty, Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health, School of Public Health
Jennifer Otten, Professor, Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health
Marie Spiker, Assistant Professor, Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health, Epidemiology, School of Public Health

Community-Engaged Civil Engineering and Urban Design Capstone: Students’ Vision for Campus Masterplan Team, UW Tacoma

Nara Almeida, Assistant Teaching Professor, Civil Engineering, School of Engineering & Technology, UW Tacoma
Bára Šafářová, Assistant Professor, Urban Design, School of Urban Studies, UW Tacoma

Distinguished Teaching Legacy Award

Created in 2017, this award celebrates the legacy of transformational teaching. It honors a UW teacher, living or not, who influenced and inspired students long after they left the classroom.

Edward D. Lazowska, Bill & Melinda Gates Chair Emeritus, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering

Excellence in Teaching Award

Presented since 1983, this award recognizes two graduate teaching assistants who demonstrate outstanding skills in the classroom.

Rachael Herren, Doctoral Candidate, Theatre History and Performance Studies, School of Drama

Jennifer Zheng, Doctoral Candidate, Communication, College of Arts & SciencesĚýĚý

Distinguished Contributions to Lifelong Learning Award

This award is given to a full-time UW faculty member who has taught for at least two years in innovative non-degree programs sponsored by the University and designed for professional development, personal interest or career redirection.

Rebecca M. Price, Professor, School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, UW Bothell

University Faculty Lecture Award

Since 1976, this award has honored current or emeritus faculty whose 91×ÔĹÄ, scholarship or art is widely recognized by their peers and whose achievements have had a substantial impact on their profession and society. The recipient of this award delivers the annual University Faculty Lecture to share their creativity and scholarship with the greater UW community.

Noah A. Smith, Professor, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering

Excellence in Global Engagement Award

This award honors a UW community member whose teaching, 91×ÔĹÄ or community-building activities connect UW students, faculty and staff to global communities locally, nationally and internationally — establishing the honoree as a leader in global engagement. The award alternates each year between faculty and staff honorees.

James Sherrell, Program Specialist, EthnoMed, Harborview Medical Center

Marsha L. Landolt Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award

The Marsha L. Landolt Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award recognizes a faculty member who excels at the intense one-on-one teaching that is the hallmark of graduate study. First bestowed in 1999, the award honors the memory of Marsha L. Landolt, who served as dean of the Graduate School from 1996 to 2004.

Anjum Hajat, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, School of Public Health

Outstanding Public Service Award

Since 1980, this award has recognized exceptional achievement in public service by a faculty or staff member.

Scott Bingham, Executive Director, Computing and Productivity Platforms, UW Information Technology

Distinguished Alumni Veteran Award

This award is bestowed on a graduate and veteran who has made a positive impact through community service and civic engagement.

Elizabeth Bridges, ’91, ’98, School of Nursing; Colonel, U.S. Air Force Nurse Corps (ret.)

President’s Medal

Since 1932, the UW president has awarded a medal to theĚýgraduating senior who achieved the most distinguishedĚýacademic record at the University for that year. In 2004,Ěýthe president began awarding the medal to two graduatingĚýseniors: one who has completed at least three-fourths ofĚýtheir degree requirements at the UW, and one who enteredĚýthe University with at least 60 transfer credits from aĚýWashington community college.

Julia Grace Lee, School of Nursing
Tom McAlister, School of Art + Art History + Design

Alumna Summa Laude Dignata

This honor, first bestowed in 1938, is awarded to a former UW student whose achievements have earned them national or international prominence. It is the highest honor the University can bestow on any graduate.Ěý

Mary E. Brunkow, ’83, College of Arts & Sciences; Distinguished Investigator, Institute for Systems BiologyĚý

Do you want to nominate a UW colleague for an award? The next cycle of awards will open in early October 2026.

Dr. Wood and his sister were the first in their family to go to college; he attended Harvard University and stayed in the Boston area for medical training before joining the 91×ÔĹÄ in 1992. At that time, “There was little development of specialized thoracic surgery,” he says. “Now, we have one of the premier cardiothoracic training programs and one of the largest thoracic surgical practices in the country.”

Dr. Wood is the winner of the UW 2025 University Faculty Lecture Award, which has been honoring a current or former faculty member and the societal impact of their 91×ÔĹÄ or art for more than 50 years. He is only the second physician to receive the award. Dr. Wood will present his lecture, “A breath of fresh air: The science and policy saving lives from America’s deadliest cancer,” on Thursday, Feb. 5 at 5:30 p.m.

This talk is intended for a general audience, and attendees are invited to Ěýat the HUB Lyceum or .

In advance of his lecture, Dr. Wood spoke with us about his path to the UW and the work łó±đ’s doing to raise lung cancer awareness, increase access to early detection, and ultimately, change lung cancer victims to lung cancer survivors.

Tell us about why you chose to study medicine, and the lungs specifically.

My sister and I grew up on a farm, and my parents, who just completed high school, appreciated, respected and emphasized education for both of us, so it was a clear path to university.

I was always interested in science, particularly biology, and considered being a marine biologist. But as I went through college and was exposed to medicine, I really felt it was a place where I could apply my interest in science and biology in a way that had an impact on people. When I talk to my faculty or trainees now about the privilege of what we do, I say, “We are so lucky. We get to do something every day that helps people live better or live longer.” I think about it with more clarity now than I think I did as a college student, but that was a connection that I made.

I always had a surgical interest when I entered medical school. And as I considered different areas of surgery, I liked the anatomy, the physiology and the diversity of problems in cardiothoracic.

It’s alarming to hear that lung cancer is the most common cancer fatality — more than breast, colon and prostate (the following three most common) combined. What work are you doing to change that?

The other statistic that is important is that the sixth most common cause of cancer death in the U.S. is lung cancer in never-smokers. Lung cancer death rates peaked about 20 or 30 years ago and have been falling at a rate of about 2% to 3% per year, which is significant. More recently, that has increased to falling at a rate of 5% to 6% per year. That is huge.

Part of it relates to decreasing smoking rates in the United States. But it also relates to early detection and the advanced therapies that have developed in the last 10 to 15 years for people even with advanced lung cancer.

As for what I’ve done, I would put it in three categories:

For my whole career, the most common disease I treat is lung cancer. So, one of my impacts, and maybe the one that I care most about, is the one-on-one of being a cardiothoracic surgeon who cares for patients.

If I may give an anecdote about patient experience, 10 years ago, I was in my clinic. My nurse came and said, “Dr. Wood, there’s one of your former patients here, who does not have an appointment. Can you see her?”

Even though I was running late, I went in, and there’s a woman who says, “Dr. Wood, I’m here, because 10 years ago you saved my life, and I’m here for our anniversary.”

I can still actually get emotional thinking about that. This connects to what I said about this being a privilege, to be able to do that for people. I got an email from her two months ago. It’s been 20 years now. She reminded me she was 54 when I operated on her, she had been told that she did not have any treatment options and had made funeral arrangements. I did a very high-risk big operation on her. And now słó±đ’s 74. That’s pretty great!

At the end of the day, that’s what matters most.

I have also been the national leader in lung cancer guidelines. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a prominent network of major cancer centers in the United States, and they do national and even worldwide cancer guidelines. I’ve been working on that almost since its inception, about 25 years.

We meet annually to update the guidelines. And in 2009, we had a lot of debate about lung cancer screening because there were some initial reports that it might be useful. At the end of the day, two things happened: First, we said there wasn’t enough data to support routine screening. Second, the board of directors of the NCCN felt that there was enough importance to lung cancer screening as to create a new guideline panel specifically on lung cancer screening, which they asked me to chair.

We gathered a strong group of experts and put together the evidence around lung cancer screening to create national guidelines. It so happened that a landmark clinical trial of lung cancer screening was published while we were doing this work that changed the whole field of lung cancer screening. There was a publication in the New England Journal of Medicine from this trial that showed a 20% mortality reduction if you screen people with low-dose CT who were at risk for lung cancer.

This study led our panel to produce the first guidelines about lung cancer screening in 2012. And so, I’ve had the privilege of leading that guideline work, and this has been a really important part of my career for the past 15 years.

That connects to the third thing, which is advocacy, because I learned a lot in this process. I thought, “Spectacular, we’ve written guidelines, now people can get screened.” And that was the naivete of me not really understanding the complexities of health-care policy in the U.S. and that our guidelines alone were insufficient.

If insurers were not going to pay for lung cancer screening, it wasn’t going to get done. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is the agency that sets guidelines for preventive services in the U.S. They’re the ones that say who can get mammograms for breast cancer, whether prostate cancer screening should happen and a variety of other things. And their recommendations about lung cancer screening had been that there was no evidence to support it. So, we had to help USPSTF realize that new evidence did exist showing lung cancer screening saved lives and encourage them to revise their guidelines. We were successful in getting them to recommend lung cancer screening. Under the Affordable Care Act, private insurers are required to pay for what USPSTF recommends.

That decision by the USPSTF on Dec. 31, 2013, went into effect in terms of requiring insurer coverage on Jan. 1, 2015. Just 10, almost 11, years ago, so it’s recent. It seemed like that was the victory we needed to embark on lung cancer screening in the U.S. Then I learned that Medicare doesn’t have to follow USPSTF recommendations. And 70% of patients who are at risk for lung cancer are in the Medicare age group.

Medicare has a process for reviewing a decision like this through the Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee (MEDCAC), and they put together a MEDCAC panel in April 2014. I testified to that panel, as I had also testified to a U.S. Senate briefing before. Remarkably, MEDCAC listened to the evidence supporting lung cancer screening and still recommended against lung cancer screening for Medicare beneficiaries, an enormous backwards step in trying to help people have access to the benefits of early detection.

That was a pretty dark day for those of us in the lung cancer care and screening space. But then we doubled down and put together a collaborative of experts. We worked directly with senior Medicare administrators to develop a major document to describe how they could safely implement lung cancer screening in an effective and reasonable way — and they ultimately agreed with us.

So, on Feb. 5, 2015, Medicare approved coverage for lung cancer screening for Medicare beneficiaries. To my knowledge, it’s the first time in history that Medicare has reversed a decision from their own advisory MEDCAC committee. That’s really when lung cancer screening could legitimately start.

The last part of that advocacy work is that our guidelines have continued to evolve, more data has come in, and we’ve learned things to make them simpler, more applicable, and more equitable. We haven’t stopped, because there are still aspects of the inclusion criteria by our policymakers that I think are inappropriately restrictive.

Help us understand what screening looks like. Also, is there a downside to screening additional people?

It’s important to emphasize that screening is more than a procedure, it’s a process. The procedure is a low-dose CT scan, a single deep breath you hold for a few seconds. Our technology now is very sophisticated, so it’s simple and not invasive.

But the whole point is discipline and regularity of the follow-up. That’s the process. If there’s a spot in their lung, there’s expertise needed to evaluate and advise that individual. The guidelines that we developed in the NCCN have algorithms for what to do with all those scenarios. If you have a spot and it’s a certain size and appearance, here’s how you manage it. That’s an important part of the process.

The second part is that it’s not one and done. For those who are at risk, screening is meant to be annual. One of our problems in screening implementation is people doing a scan, getting a good report, and then not coming back. Mammography has developed a really systematic approach of reminders and processes for getting people to come back — and that just hasn’t developed to the same degree for lung yet. The whole point is your risk continues. In fact, as you get older, the risk keeps increasing, because it is both age and smoking exposure related.

Regarding downsides, I think non-physicians think, “If we can catch something, let’s scan everybody.” But there are downsides, which is why we’re trying not to screen people who aren’t at high risk for lung cancer. And the biggest downside is false positives. There’s lots of stuff that we shouldn’t know about, because if there’s something noted on a CT scan, then we start investigating, we create worry, we might do invasive tests that have risks, and many of those things might be unimportant. So benign neglect is sometimes good. It keeps healthy people out of doctor’s offices for things that are benign and unimportant.

Many people associate lung cancer specifically with an older audience of smokers. What would you say to people who might think, “Oh, that doesn’t apply to me or my family?”

I guess I would say that it’s not just people that have a smoking history that get lung cancer, and it’s not just old people that get lung cancer. I’m vice chair at the American Cancer Society National Lung Cancer Roundtable, and one of our points is the risk of getting lung cancer is having lungs. There’s currently not a role for lung cancer screening in people that don’t have smoking exposure. But there’s 91×ÔĹÄ going on about how we might evolve lung cancer screening to groups that don’t have just the risk of smoking, but have other risks, like familial risks, which do exist for lung cancer.

Early detection of lung cancer gives a high opportunity for cure. The five-year survival for patients with lung cancer is 22%, which is really bad. The five-year survival for individuals that have undergone lung cancer screening is 84%. There aren’t many interventions in medicine that make that big of an impact.

• Use sustainable transportation. Whether you’re coming to campus for work, class or the game, everyone is encouraged to take transit, bike, walk, carpool or use a shuttle.

• UW staff: Don’t forget your fully subsidized  — it’s a great way to take advantage of .

• Game attendees: Parking will be limited, so please take transit or carpool if you can to save time and stress. Check the for lot opening times and details.

• Parking attendants will be on hand to help — please be patient, as many lots will fill gradually throughout the day due to regular staff and student use.Ěý

Parking info for permit holders:Ěý

Parking permit holders will receive separate emails directing them where to park on Oct. 10, but the general plan is as follows:

• East Campus Lots (E01, E04, E08, E09, E12, E14, E17, E18, E19, E20, E21, E97 (TG/IMA) ):
  Closed to regular parking starting at 10 a.m. Permit holders will be redirected to other lots and garages.

• Football parking opens at 1 p.m. in these areas:
  • Stadium Parking GarageĚý
  • PadelfordĚý
  • N25, N24Ěý
  • C12

• South Campus Garage, Central Plaza Garage, C10, and Portage Bay Garage will be partially open for football parking at 1 p.m. and will be fully available by 3 p.m.

For more details on getting to the game — or to grab your tickets — visit .Ěý

The annual trip — called the Faculty Field Tour — introduces new professors to the state’s diverse landscapes, dynamic economy and the many communities their students call home.

The immersive tour began at the Burke Museum in Seattle, then continued with stops at the Port of Tacoma, the Washington State Capitol in Olympia — where participants met with Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck — and was followed with a visit to Mount St. Helens.

From there, the group traveled to Vancouver, then headed east to Toppenish, Zillah and the Tri-Cities. On the third day, the tour stopped in Ritzville at the Schoesler family wheat farm, operated by Senator Mark Schoesler and his sister, to learn more about the history of wheat farming in eastern Washington.

Then, the new faculty ventured to Spokane to join an annual “Welcome to Washington” reception at the UW Spokane Center. Incoming local UW students, their families and UW Alumni Association Spokane members were also invited. Ěý

Thursday included a visit to the Grand Coulee Dam, and on Friday, the group returned to western Washington via scenic Washington Pass.

“I found the Faculty Field Tour to be profoundly meaningful,” Jodi Erickson, an assistant professor at the UW Tacoma School of Nursing & Healthcare Leadership, says. “It was great to meet other faculty as well as to get to know our leaders. As a longtime Washington resident, I didn’t expect to learn as much as I did about the state. The experience broadened my understanding of the state and the people we serve. The focus on humility and open-mindedness was inspiring.”Ěý

In a published in The Yakima Herald-Republic, Ed Taylor, vice provost and dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs and a professor in the College of Education, highlighted the value of the tour.

“Most of the faculty on this journey are new to Washington. This is their opportunity to see some of the places and faces that have educated and nurtured the students they will teach, given that about three-quarters of those students are Washington residents,” Taylor writes. “Along the way, the new faculty take in lessons in their areas of specialty — geography, sociology, economics, geology, biology, history, medicine, engineering and technology — new educators in conversation with the citizens we meet at every stop. I can’t think of a more important time to connect faculty with the communities we serve.”

“I really appreciate the opportunities to create these connections and ask folks facing real challenges in Washington — from governance to farming to health care — how they are rising to these challenges,” Julie Larson, an assistant professor of ecological restoration and management in the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, says. “It opens the door for us as new faculty to understand what the most important issues and opportunities are for Washingtonians, and how our work might connect into it.”

Learn more about the Faculty Field Tour.

On Thursday, June 12, hundreds of colleagues, friends and family members gathered to recognize this year’s recipients at the 55th annual ceremony. The tributes below are based on remarks by President Ana Mari Cauce and Provost and Executive Vice President Tricia Serio.

Don’t miss for highlights from the unforgettable evening.

2025 Awards of Excellence Recipients

David B. Thorud Leadership Award
Munira Khalil, Professor and Chair, Chemistry, College of Arts & Sciences 

As chair, Munira Khalil has set a new standard for departmental leadership, in the way that she guides meetings, responds to complicated management situations and communicates clearly. Her colleagues credit her with infusing a “spirit of mattering” throughout the department. She empowers faculty and staff colleagues to grow professionally in their 91×ÔĹÄ, teaching and administration roles while maintaining outstanding 91×ÔĹÄ in the field of molecular spectroscopy. 

David B. Thorud Leadership Award
Margaret Shepherd, Chief of Staff, Executive Office of the President and Provost

Margaret Shepherd is an outstanding leader whose intelligence, certitude and work ethic have been instrumental in countless successful initiatives. But what her colleagues admire most about her is that she fosters a culture of trust and respect. She is considerate, perceptive, effective, tactful and firm in her unwavering service to the institutional and public good.Ěý

Distinguished Alumni Veteran Award
Dana Curtis Covey, ’84, School of Medicine; Captain, U.S. Navy (ret.)

Throughout his dedicated service in the U.S. Navy, and later as a surgeon, Dana Curtis Covey has consistently served as a role model for the next generation of doctors. As a leading expert on combat surgery, he has unwaveringly served his country, his patients and his fellow service members with honor, courage and skill. The UW is deeply proud to count this teacher, doctor, mentor and patriot among our most esteemed alumni.Ěý

Distinguished Contributions to Lifelong Learning Award
Jason Daniel-Ulloa, Associate Teaching Professor, Health Systems and Population Health and Global Health, School of Public HealthĚý

With each new class of students, Jason Daniel-Ulloa begins by creating an inclusive learning environment in which each student feels engaged, present and invested. He then adapts his teaching strategies to their needs and experiences, which often includes setting flexible deadlines and using storytelling to spark curiosity and connection. Next, he shares his expertise in community-based participatory 91×ÔĹÄ and community capacity building to help students find their own passion for public health, social justice and eliminating health disparities.Ěý

Distinguished Librarian Award
Stephanie Lamson, Director, Preservation Services, University Libraries

Throughout her 24-year career, Stephanie Lamson’s visionary approach and transformative contributions have contributed enormously to University Libraries and the University as a whole. She has made the UW Libraries’ Conservation Center a leader in the field, and she is deeply committed to ensuring long-term access to 91×ÔĹÄ materials for current and future scholars. She has also had an active role in shaping the profession through teaching and mentorship, creating opportunities for a new generation of preservationists.

Distinguished Retiree Excellence in Community Service Award
Jill Morrison McKinstry, Librarian Emeritus, University Libraries

After nearly 30 years of service to University Libraries, Jill Morrison McKinstry has continued to serve the public as a volunteer, including leadership roles with the Mt. Baker Safe Access Committee and Grandmothers Against Gun Violence. She actively seeks out opportunities to better the community, and with her enthusiasm and dedication, she inspires others to join her. She is a powerful reminder of the positive change that one person can make in the world.

Distinguished Service Award
Brad McDavid, Director, UW Athletic Bands (ret.)

In his extraordinary career leading the Husky Marching Band, Brad McDavid’s impact at the UW was felt by thousands of student musicians and hundreds of thousands of Husky fans far and wide. As the director for almost a third of the band’s entire history, he designed and directed over 200 halftime shows and made invaluable contributions to our University and alumni communities. He is instantly recognizable to every UW fan as a true Husky icon.Ěý

Distinguished Staff Award for Career Achievement
Leula Amaha, Custodian, UW Facilities
Leula Amaha has served as a UW custodian for 25 years, and in her role at the University’s Applied Physics Laboratory, she is consistently proactive and committed to maintaining a safe, clean and productive environment. Thanks to her focus, efficiency and dedication, this critical facility is always impeccably maintained to the highest standards, including when senior government officials and representatives of funding agencies visit.

Distinguished Staff Award for Collaboration
Lara Muffley, Director of Program Operations, Genome Sciences, School of Medicine and Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine
In her role facilitating cooperation among hundreds of 91×ÔĹÄers studying genetic variation, Lara Muffley serves as a backbone in advancing scientific collaboration and discovery. Her innovative, hardworking and community-focused leadership has helped build a global genetic 91×ÔĹÄ community that is breaking new ground in genetic 91×ÔĹÄ. She enables complex and multidisciplinary teams to work toward common goals for the good of humanity.

Distinguished Staff Award for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
MEDEX Northwest PA Program Admissions and Student Services Team
Tove Blake, Director of Admissions and Student Services, MEDEX Northwest PA Program, School of Medicine
Roxana Palma-Orantes, Counseling Services Coordinator, MEDEX Northwest PA Program, School of MedicineĚý
Kalee Lynn Warnimont, Counseling Services Coordinator, MEDEX Northwest PA Program, School of MedicineĚý

In their work conducting admissions and student support for the MEDEX program, this three-person team managescomplex processes across five campuses in Washington, Alaska and Hawaii, serving hundreds of students annually. Impressively, they have achieved 100% seat fulfillment. And, through their dedication to outreach and collaboration — from orientation to white-coat ceremonies — the team has been able to recruit a top-tier cohort reflecting increased diversity. Their excellent work has helped advance program goals and our University-wide commitment to equity and community engagement.Ěý

Distinguished Staff Award for Impact
Benjamin Hornburg, Facilities Manager, Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering
Described as “the backbone of the chemical engineering department,” Benjamin Hornburg not only maintains and manages the facilities in Benson Hall, but he also ensures that everything in the building meets the highest safety standards. Graduate students routinely ask for his assistance with lab setups, and łó±đ’s essential to the smooth operation of many undergraduate labs. His outstanding work ensures that lab spaces run smoothly, accessibly and safely.

Distinguished Staff Award for Innovation:
Colin Gioia Connors, Electronic Media Producer 2, Scandinavian Studies, College of Arts & Sciences

Colin Gioia Connors produces and hosts the podcast Crossing North, which explores Nordic and Baltic society and culture. Since its launch in 2019, Crossing North has attracted a broad listenership and enhanced the Scandinavian studies department’s reputation among faculty, students and the public. Connors’ expertise, production know-how and hosting skills have helped the department and the College of Arts & Sciences educate the community with fun and fascinating content that connects the UW with the communities we serve.Ěý

Distinguished Teaching Award
Martine De Cock, Professor, School of Engineering & Technology, UW Tacoma

Through an iterative and reflective teaching practice, Martine De Cock designs transformative learning experiences for her students. For example, she has adapted a course to allow students to develop real-world, career-focused skills so they can create better artificial intelligence models. To expand access to graduate education to outstanding students from diverse backgrounds, she led the development of the Ph.D. program in computer science and systems. Her commitment to inclusive teaching, mentoring and valuing students’ experiences positively impacts the professional and academic trajectories of her students and mentees.Ěý

Distinguished Teaching Award
Keri DeGroot, Assistant Teaching Professor, Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine

As health-care professionals, occupational therapists support people in “doing, being, becoming and belonging.” This is also how Keri DeGroot approaches her teaching — by supporting her students in learning and doing basic skills, in their being occupational therapy students, in becoming practitioners and in belonging to the UW community. Her teaching methods incorporate case studies and real-world applications to encourage critical inquiry and reflection. DeGroot is also involved in curriculum initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity, contributing to the broader academic community at the UW.Ěý

Distinguished Teaching Award
Jasmine Mahmoud, Assistant Professor, School of Drama, College of Arts & Sciences

Whether słó±đ’s teaching a seminar with eight graduate students or a lecture with 200 undergraduates, Jasmine Mahmoud makes meaningful connections with each of them. By providing feedback that encourages iteration, Mahmoud helps her students develop as critical thinkers with growth mindsets and lifelong learning practices. She offers them professional development activities, such as conference planning and 91×ÔĹÄ collaborations. In addition, she guides students in developing syllabi and in facilitating independent studies that lead to practical projects — all to help them prepare for academic and professional careers.Ěý

Distinguished Teaching Award
Laura McGarrity, Associate Teaching Professor, Linguistics, College of Arts & Sciences

To make linguistics as relatable and relevant as possible, Laura McGarrity transformed the course Linguistics 269 into “Swearing and Taboo Language.” Enrollment in the course shot up, and now, 800 students take it each year. To create an inclusive learning environment in her course “Language and Thought,” McGarrity assigns readings by a variety of authors. For that class, one student writes, she “presented topics that never occurred to me and did so in a way that encouraged us to debate them and make up our own minds on whether we found them true or not.”Ěý

Distinguished Teaching Award
Bryan White, Teaching Professor, Biological Sciences, School of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics, UW Bothell

By connecting classroom content to real-world scenarios, Bryan White sparks a sense of wonder and curiosity in his students — and they begin to see themselves as scientists in development. White, one nominator writes, “represents the pinnacle of educational excellence, transforming ordinary classrooms into vibrant spaces of discovery and engagement. His ability to turn complex science concepts into memorable experiences — whether through impromptu demonstrations, unexpected props or spontaneous dance moves — reflects his extraordinary gift for making learning both rigorous and joyful.”Ěý

Distinguished Teaching Award for Teams
Brotherhood Initiative Instructional Team, College of Education
Kandi Bauman, Assistant Director of Research and Curriculum, Brotherhood Initiative, College of Education
Joe Lott, Professor, Educational Foundations, Leadership and Policy, College of Education
Paul Metellus, Associate Director for Student Success, Brotherhood Initiative, College of Education
Siamak Vossoughi, Teaching Associate, Brotherhood Initiative, College of Education
T. Ling Yeh, Director of Research and Programs, Brotherhood Initiative, College of Education

This team helps students who identify as men of color navigate college and develop agency within their professional and civic identities. Through a cohort-based seminar structure that is developed with extensive data and planning, the team reimagines the curriculum each year to ensure that the project is relevant to students’ experiences and perspectives. The team’s work has created transformative learning opportunities that affirm students’ cultural experiences while promoting a sense of belonging and community.Ěý

Distinguished Teaching Award for Teams
CSE 121, 122 & 123 Course Launch Team, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering
Kasey Champion, Lecturer, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & EngineeringĚý
Elba Garza, Assistant Teaching Professor, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & EngineeringĚý
Miya Natsuhara, Assistant Teaching Professor, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & EngineeringĚý
Hunter Schafer, Associate Teaching Professor, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & EngineeringĚý
Brett Wortzman, Associate Teaching Professor, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & EngineeringĚý

This team revitalized the introductory computer science courses that serve as an entry point for students to explore the world of computing. The team infused the course sequence with activities that encourage students to reflect on their work, integrate their personal experiences into their learning, embrace a growth mindset and consider ethical questions related to computer science and engineering. Their chair notes, “this multiyear, iterative, collaborative project has been wildly successful and impressively innovative, better serving thousands of students each year.”Ěý

Distinguished Teaching Legacy Award
J’May Bertrand Rivara, Associate Teaching Professor Emerita, School of Social Work; Co-Director, Carol LaMare Scholars Program, Center for Integrative Oncology and Palliative Care Social Work

A cornerstone of support. Advocate. Champion. Guiding light. Enduring influence. These are just some of the words students use to describe J’May Bertrand Rivara. Throughout her career, Rivara has taught, mentored and nurtured graduate social work students who are committed to cancer care, palliative care or end-of-life care. “Her actions and words have shown me that being a social worker is not a time-limited role,” one student writes, “but rather a set of values and relationships that are pursued over the long haul.”Ěý

Excellence in Global Engagement Award
Anu Taranath, Teaching Professor, English and Comparative History of Ideas, College of Arts & Sciences

As a speaker, educator, study abroad program director and public scholar, Anu Taranath partners with a range of people and organizations to encourage students and faculty to explore their own stories while deepening conversations on equity, social justice and global consciousness. Her book, “Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World,” serves as a critical resource for academics, students, 91×ÔĹÄers and travelers who engage globally and want to better understand and navigate worlds of difference.Ěý

Excellence in Teaching Award
Sourojit Ghosh, Doctoral Candidate, Human Centered Design & Engineering, College of Engineering

For Sourojit Ghosh, teaching is an iterative process and a partnership. He actively involves students in course design and adapts his curricula based on their feedback. After designing one of the University’s first courses on ethics in artificial intelligence, he was invited to expand it into a five-credit version for undergraduates. His students said that the class equipped them with a clearer understanding of generative AI tools and gave them a strong foundation in ethical frameworks to champion responsible AI design and communicate integration strategies to their employers.Ěý

Excellence in Teaching Award
Robert James Swan, Doctoral Candidate, School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, College of the Environment

Having taught more than 1,000 students, Robert James Swan is recognized for creating meaningful opportunities for all students to engage with forestry 91×ÔĹÄ â€” including those without backgrounds in science — by guiding them in essential skills such as fieldwork and lab techniques. His noteworthy class assignments focus on helping students learn experientially and build their metacognitive skills. To enhance networking and extracurricular opportunities for students, he revived the UW chapter of the Society of American Foresters and founded the UW Beekeeping Club.Ěý

Marsha L. Landolt Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award
Hannah C. Wiley, Professor, Dance, College of Arts & Sciences

To help professional dancers transition to careers in higher education, Hannah C. Wiley established a master of fine arts program aimed at addressing their unique challenges and providing financial support through teaching opportunities. She actively recruits, trains and mentors a diverse body of students, advocating for changes in curriculum, programming and support systems. “Hannah’s office door is always open — literally,” a colleague writes. “And while there isn’t a fireplace inside, you always leave her office feeling as if you’ve gathered around one.”Ěý

Outstanding Public Service Award
Vadym Provozyuk, Lead Network Specialist, UW Information Technology

Vadym Provozyuk, who emigrated to the U.S. following Russia’s 2014 invasion of Ukraine, has devoted himself to helping Ukrainians since the start of Russia’s 2022 invasion. His heroic coordination of organizing and planning has helped thousands of Ukrainians evacuate to safety. Working with the nonprofit Grace Tea, he has also helped ensure that urgently needed food, water, medical supplies, fuel and other necessities reach Ukrainians in need.Ěý

President’s Medal
Kerry Petit, Undergraduate Student, Anthropology and Urban Ecological Design

Kerry Petit returned to higher education later in her career, first at Shoreline Community College before transferring to the UW. She embraces new experiences inside and outside the classroom, and as an anthropology major, she is interested in how culture and design can shape more equitable futures. After graduation, Petit, a member of the Chinook Indian Nation family, plans to apply her learning to working with underserved communities supporting cultural revitalization and ethical museum practices.Ěý

President’s Medal
Gloria Shen, Undergraduate Student, Neuroscience and Dance

As a Seattle native, Gloria Shen was drawn to the UW from an early age, but as a student, she discovered an even deeper connection through a strong sense of belonging in the neuroscience program. She has pursued an ambitious academic program at the intersection of dance, medicine and neuroscience, receiving numerous awards and scholarships in recognition of her academic excellence. After graduation, she plans to pursue a medical degree and hopes to one day become a pediatric neurosurgeon.Ěý

University Faculty Lecture Award
Douglas Wood, Henry N. Harkins Professor and Chair, Surgery, School of MedicineĚý

Douglas Wood’s leadership in developing and promoting lung cancer screening guidelines has been nothing short of transformative. As a world-renowned expert in thoracic oncology and founding chair of the National Lung Cancer Screening Panel, Wood has overseen the creation and continual refinement of evidence-based guidelines for the early detection of lung cancer. Now the standard in clinical practice, these guidelines have been instrumental in saving thousands of lives throughout the world. Wood will present his lecture in 2026.Ěý

Please take a moment to congratulate our 2025 recipients for their exemplary work to expand knowledge, serve our students, improve people’s health and well-being, and to better communities.

The awardees were honored at a ceremony in Meany Hall on June 12. The program included a one-hour ceremony hosted by President Ana Mari Cauce and Provost Tricia Serio, followed by a reception with refreshments where our community was able to connect with one another.

Do you want to nominate a UW colleague for an award? The next cycle of awards will open in early October of 2025.

2025 awardees

Distinguished Staff Award

Established in 1997, the Distinguished Staff Award honors outstanding staff members who contribute to the missions of their units and the University, respond creatively to challenges,

maintain the highest standards in their work, establish productive relationships with colleagues, and promote a respectful and supportive workplace. This year, awardees are being honored in the following categories: career achievement; collaboration; diversity, equity and inclusion; impact; and innovation.

Career Achievement

Leula Amaha, UW Facilities

Collaboration

Lara Muffley, Genome Sciences, School of Medicine; Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

MEDEX Northwest Admissions and Student Services Team

Tove Blake, MEDEX Northwest PA Program, School of Medicine
Roxana Palma-Orantes, MEDEX Northwest PA Program, School of Medicine
Kalee Lynn Warnimont, MEDEX Northwest PA Program, School of Medicine

Impact

Benjamin Hornburg, Chemical Engineering

Innovation

Colin Gioia Connors, Scandinavian Studies

David B. Thorud Leadership Award

The David B. Thorud Leadership Award is given to one UW faculty member and one staff member who demonstrate exceptional abilities to lead, serve, inspire and collaborate. First bestowed in 2006, the award is named in honor of David B. Thorud, who served the University in leadership positions for 25 years.

Munira Khalil, Chemistry
Margaret Shepherd, Executive Office of the President and Provost

Distinguished Librarian Award

Established in 2008, the Distinguished Librarian Award recognizes excellence in librarianship, especially as it benefits the academic community through teaching, 91×ÔĹÄ, learning and innovative approaches to practice.

Stephanie Lamson, Preservation Services

Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award

Since 1970, this award has honored a UW Alumni Association group or member who positively impacts both the Alumni Association and the larger 91×ÔĹÄ community.

Brad McDavid, UW Athletic Bands (ret.)

Distinguished Retiree Excellence in Community Service Award

This award is given to a faculty or staff retiree for the quality of the individual’s contributions, after retirement, in service to the community locally, regionally, nationally or internationally.

Jill Morrison McKinstry, University Libraries

Distinguished Teaching Award

Recipients of the Distinguished Teaching Award are chosen based on a variety of criteria, including mastery of subject matter, new ideas in course and curriculum design, enthusiasm and innovation in the teaching process, ability to engage students both inside and outside the classroom, and ability to inspire creative, original thinking in students.

Martine De Cock, School of Engineering & Technology, UW Tacoma
Keri DeGroot, Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine
Jasmine Jamillah Mahmoud, School of Drama
Laura W. McGarrity, Linguistics
Bryan White, Biological Sciences, UW Bothell

Brotherhood Initiative Instructional Team

Kandi Bauman, Brotherhood Initiative
Joe Lott, Educational Foundations, Leadership and Policy
Paul Metellus, Brotherhood Initiative
Siamak Vossoughi, Brotherhood Initiative
Ling Yeh, Brotherhood Initiative

CSE 121, 122 & 123 Launch Team

Kasey Champion, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering
Elba Garza, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering
Miya Natsuhara, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering
Hunter Schafer, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering
Brett Wortzman, Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering

Distinguished Teaching Legacy Award

Created in 2017, this award celebrates the legacy of transformational teaching. It honors a UW teacher, living or not, who influenced and inspired students long after they left the classroom.

J’May Bertrand Rivara, School of Social Work

Excellence in Teaching Award

Presented since 1983, this award recognizes two graduate teaching assistants who demonstrate outstanding skills in the classroom.

Sourojit Ghosh, Human Centered Design & Engineering
Robert James Swan, School of Environmental and Forest Sciences

Distinguished Contributions to Lifelong Learning Award

This award is given to a full-time UW faculty member who has taught for at least two years in innovative non-degree programs sponsored by the University and designed for professional development, personal interest or career redirection.

Jason Daniel-Ulloa, Health Systems and Population Health; Global Health

University Faculty Lecture Award

Since 1976, this award has honored current or emeritus faculty whose 91×ÔĹÄ, scholarship or art is widely recognized by their peers and whose achievements have had a substantial impact on their profession and society. The recipient of this award delivers the annual University Faculty Lecture to share their creativity and scholarship with the greater UW community.

Douglas E. Wood, Surgery, School of Medicine

Excellence in Global Engagement

This award honors a UW community member whose teaching, 91×ÔĹÄ or community-building activities connect UW students, faculty and staff to global communities locally, nationally and internationally — establishing the honoree as a leader in global engagement. The award alternates each year between faculty and staff honorees.

Anu Taranath, English; Comparative History of Ideas

Marsha L. Landolt Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award

The Marsha L. Landolt Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award recognizes a faculty member who excels at the intense one-on-one teaching that is the hallmark of graduate study. First bestowed in 1999, the award honors the memory of Marsha L. Landolt, who served as dean of the Graduate School from 1996 to 2004.

Hannah C. Wiley, Dance

Outstanding Public Service Award

Since 1980, this award has recognized exceptional achievement in public service by a faculty or staff member.

Vadym Provozyuk, UW Information Technology

Distinguished Alumni Veteran Award

This award is bestowed on a graduate and veteran who has made a positive impact through community service and civic engagement.

Dana Curtis Covey, ’84, School of Medicine; U.S. Navy (ret.)

President’s Medal

Since 1932, the UW president has awarded a medal to the graduating senior who achieved the most distinguished academic record at the University for that year. In 2004, the president began awarding the medal to two graduating seniors: one who has completed at least three-fourths of their degree requirements at the UW, and one who entered the University with at least 60 transfer credits from a Washington community college.

Kerry L. Petit, Medical Anthropology & Global Health; Anthropology of Globalization
Gloria Shen, Neuroscience

Special Recognition

In lieu of the annual Alumnus Summa Laude Dignatus award, this year, we honor our University’s 33rd president as she completes her final year in office. Since being selected for the role in 2015, she has had a transformative impact on the 91×ÔĹÄ.

Ana Mari Cauce, President, 91×ÔĹÄ

The ORBIE Awards honor Chief Information Officers who have demonstrated excellence in technology leadership. Since 1998, the ORBIE has recognized CIOs who exhibit exceptional leadership, drive impactful innovation, and demonstrate a clear vision that inspires others to reach their potential. The award celebrates technology leaders who build strong relationships with business partners, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and help shape the next generation of executives.Ěý

Winners are selected through a rigorous, independent peer-review process led by prior ORBIE recipients. Evaluation criteria include leadership and management effectiveness, the business value created through technology innovation, and active engagement in both industry and community initiatives. Since its inception, the ORBIE Awards have recognized more than 5,000 finalists and honored over 800 CIOs across the country.Ěý

In support of Bohman’s nomination, 91×ÔĹÄ President Ana Mari Cauce wrote:Ěý

“Whether through his efforts in enhancing and maturing the University’s cybersecurity infrastructure, or his implementation of Workday across our entire campus, his work reaches across teams, units, and the entire University community. All members of our campus — students, faculty, staff and community — have benefited from his efforts. He has also been a leader in innovation, advancing the understanding and implementation of AI across the University, which is critical, timely and ongoing work.”Ěý

Bohman’s leadership exemplifies the University’s commitment to trusted solutions, innovation with global impact, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.Ěý

Starting in January, several UW teams will relocate to the new 266,000-square-foot , situated above the Sound Transit station at NE 45th St. and Brooklyn Ave. NE.

Teams moving to UDSB include:

UWHR: Floors 2 & 3

• Floor 2: POD training and Labor Relations negotiations rooms
• Floor 3: Campus HR Operations & Services, Compensation, Employee Experience, HR Benefits, Analytics & Info Systems, HR Policy & Workforce Strategy, Labor Relations, Office of the VP for UWHR, Total Talent Management

Compliance and Risk Services: Floor 4

• Civil Rights Investigation Office, Office of Public Records and Open Public Meetings

Finance, Planning & Budgeting: Floors 4 and 5

• Floor 4: Procurement Services, Travel Office, University Business Services
• Floor 5: Banking & Accounting Operations, Budget, Planning & Operations, Enterprise Business Solutions, Equipment Inventory Office, Finance & Budget Strategy, Financial Accounting, Grant & Contract Accounting, Institutional Analytics & Decision Support, Management Accounting & Analysis, Policy, Planning & State Operations, Sponsored Programs Finance, Treasury, University Controller’s Office

Environmental Health & Safety: Floor 6

• Administration, Employee Health Center, Environmental Public Health, Fire & Building Safety, Research Safety, Respirator Fit Testing, Safety Training, Workplace Health & Safety

Internal Audit: Floor 6

The University District Station Building will be a secured building, with visitors required to check in at the Welcome Desk, staffed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. While office addresses will change, phone numbers and email addresses will stay the same. Updated campus mailbox numbers will be posted on forms and websites for departments as needed.