More than 125 faculty and staff gathered on the stage of E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall on April 30 for the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences (BCAS) Spring Awards Luncheon and College Meeting. The annual event recognizes faculty and staff whose work exemplifies excellence in teaching, research, service and mentorship across the college.

The 2026 Buchtel College Awards for Outstanding Achievement were presented in nine categories, highlighting the impact of individuals who support student success, advance knowledge and strengthen communities both on and off campus.

Awards included:

Professional Service & Community Engagement

• Dr. Todd Blackledge - Professor in Dept. of Biology, Integrated Bioscience program director
• Dr. Stacey Nofzinger - Professor in Dept. of Sociology

Research

• Dr. Caleb Holyoke - Associate Professor in Dept. of Geosciences

Early Research

• Dr. Iris Luo - Assistant Professor in Dept. of Criminal Justice Studies

Teaching

• Dr. William (Bill) Visco - Assistant Professor in LJFF School of Education

Advancing Opportunity & Belonging

• Dr. Jess Otto - Assistant Professor of Instruction in Dept. of Philosophy

Staff

• Theresa Procopio - Administrative Assistant in Depts. of English and Modern Languages

Online Teaching

• Dr. Tom Quick - Associate Professor of Instruction in Deot, of Geosciences

Mentor

• Dr. Kevin Kaut - Professor in Dept. of Psychology

Adjunct Teaching

• Dr. Christine Schneider - Senior Lecturer in Dept. of Sociology

Early Research

• Dr. Shu (Scott) Li - Assistant Professor in School of Communication

In addition to the Outstanding Achievement Awards, Dr. Rich Londraville, Associate Dean for Faculty Support, received the Dean’s Leadership Award, recognizing his exceptional leadership and lasting impact on the college.

Together, this year’s honorees reflect the strength, dedication and collaborative spirit of the BCAS community. Their contributions continue to shape meaningful learning experiences for students while advancing the college’s mission in research, creative activity and community engagement.