FACULTY RECOGNITION 2024-2025 CENTRAL WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
FACULTY RECOGNITION 2024-2025 CENTRAL WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
TO CELEBRATE PROMOTION, TENURE, SENIOR LECTURER, EMERITUS FACULTY, AND DISTINGUISHED FACULTY
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES
PROMOTED TO FULL PROFESSOR
Maya Chachava — Department of Art and Design MFA, University of Washington
Professor Maya Chachava is an extremely valuable member of Art + Design. Her generosity and willingness to be an integral part of the department are much appreciated. Maya is genuinely concerned about the department and student success. Student comments and faculty peer reviews are a testament to Maya’s rigorous and challenging teaching methods and the students' respect of and appreciation for her effective teaching strategies. The department applauds Professor Chachava on her scholarly and creative accomplishments. These activities represent her strong commitment to her discipline. It is obvious through these accomplishments; Maya sets a professional standard for her students.
Maya Zeller — Department of English MFA, Eastern Washington University
Distinguished Professor of Scholarship and Artistic Achievement Maya Jewell Zeller is the author, most recently, of the poetry collection out takes/glove box (winner of the New American Poetry Prize); and co-author of Advanced Poetry: A Writer’s Guide and Anthology (Bloomsbury), as well as forthcoming books The Wonder of Mushrooms, and Raised by Ferns, a memoir. Recent accolades include fellowships from the University of Oxford and Washington State Artist Trust; current work includes coordinating our Professional and Creative Writing Program, mentoring students into MFA acceptance and conference presentations, and regularly teaching classes in poetics, publishing, and various genres of writing.
PROMOTED TO ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Yerin Kim — Department of Music DMA, Stony Brook University
Since her arrival in Fall 2020, Dr. Kim has significantly enhanced our program with her vision, drive, and stunning music-making. Her kind heart and desire to create a distinguished Piano program have inspired our entire department to collaborate better. Colleagues support her because they know she gives 100% to every project. Her students adore her, as she inspires them to become great artists and teachers, always treating them with compassion and respect.
PROMOTED TO SENIOR LECTURER
Josh Aubol — Department of English MA, St. John's College MA, Central Washington University
Josh Aubol is an innovative teacher and collaborative colleague, who contributes significantly to student success at our university and at high schools across the region as College in the High School liaison, for which he received the Provost’s Achievement Award. He teaches classes in Composition, Introduction to Literature, and Humanities. Josh is a member of our Humanities faculty team that attended a summer institute on high-impact practices (HIPs) and received a grant to redesign their courses to incorporate HIPs and use ePortfolios to engage students with digital writing projects, media design skills, and critical thinking, through hyflex course delivery.
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COLLEGE OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES
PROMOTED TO SENIOR LECTURER
Jeremy Irvin — Department of Art + Design MFA, Central Washington University
Jeremy Isamu Irvin is an internationally exhibiting artist having recently displayed his jewelry works in London and Munich. Jeremy’s jewelry incorporates nontraditional materials with silversmithing to bridge the past with the present. His current body of work utilizes acrylic and a recycled paper composite. Jeremy is an integral part of the Art + Design program teaching drawing, computer fundamentals and art appreciation. His dedication to teaching and the success of his students is valued by all the faculty in the department. As a professional artist, Jeremy sets the standard high for his students.
Glen Petrites — Department of World Languages and Cultures MS, The University of Arizona
Glen Petrites, originally from Queensland, Australia, has been teaching American Sign Language (ASL) at CWU for five years. His passion for languages drives his eagerness to share this enthusiasm with his students. Glen is deeply committed to student success, emphasizing collaboration and high-impact practices between CWU ASL students and their interactions with the Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Hard-of-Hearing communities. Glen enjoys attending workshops to connect with other foreign language instructors at the state, national, and international levels, enhancing his teaching skills. Outside of teaching, Glen enjoys traveling, playing basketball, herding alpacas, and exploring new languages. Jacqueline Trujillo — Department of Art + Design MFA, Central Washington University The faculty appreciates Jacqueline Trujillo’s dedication to her teaching, her students and the department. Jacqueline has proven herself a valuable member of the department. Her genuine concern for the success of our students and program are very evident. In addition to Jacqueline’s teaching she is a practicing professional artist. Trujillo’s artwork explores the personal narrative through familiarity and memory. The work attempts to explain the precarious relationship between reality and recollection, finding the balance with honest expression and faltering memory. As a working artist, Jacqueline sets a fine example for her students.
Matthew Wenz — Department of Art + Design MFA, Central Washington University
Matthew Wenz is an amazing graphic designer. He is the founder of Wenz Creative, a graphic arts studio specializing in print and poster design, branding and identity, web design and development, and custom illustration. One of Matthew’s many attributions is his ability to balance his interest in education and design. It is the responsibility of an educator to remain active and productive within their own design career in order to teach students how to be successful designers. Matthew is a model for his students to follow.
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AWARDED EMERITUS STATUS
César García — Department of Communication PhD, Universidad Complutense Madrid
As a valued, long-time member of the department from 2007 to 2024, Dr. Garcia was a critical citizen of the department, leading the Public Relations Program during its most successful years. Dr. Garcia is a prolific scholar. The record of his scholarship is impressive in terms of its breadth and quality, including his scholarly work published in two languages (English and Spanish). His scholarly accomplishments kept the Department of Communication competitive while providing our students with quality education. There is no doubt that his scholarly efforts inspired other members of the department. The Department of Communication is thankful for the work Dr. Garcia has done as a member of the department, and it will be an honor to have Dr. Garcia continue to be part of the department as an emeritus professor.
Stephen Moore — Department of History PhD, College of William and Mary
Dr. Stephen Moore joined the History Department in 2004. Steve was a model teacher-scholar: his research deeply informed his courses, and his teaching influenced the clarity and direction of his scholarship. Steve’s service as the coordinator for the History/Social Studies program was also intricately connected. His course and lesson planning were intentionally transparent to students, so that they could undertake this complex process themselves. From freshman classes to innovative graduate seminars, to individual advising and careful guidance of student research, Steve epitomized fine mentorship. His impressive research portfolio included his book, Bootleggers and Borders: The Paradox of Prohibition on a Canadian-American Borderland, published in Fall 2014 to rave reviews. He regularly presented well-received journal articles and conference papers, on such topics as Canada’s influence on American prohibition legislation and on its decision to enter World War II. In all ways, Steve richly deserved the conferral of emeritus status.
Kenneth Munsell — Department of History MA, Central Washington University
Senior Lecturer Kenneth Munsell taught at CWU for thirty-three years. He taught hundreds of courses in diverse areas, including European history, U.S. history, and more specialized Douglas Honors College topics. Ken also fully — and passionately — participated in departmental matters, including searches, speaker events, and, perhaps most importantly, the Phi Alpha Theta honor society. For the annual Phi Alpha Theta student conference, Ken put hundreds of hours into reading and critiquing papers and helping with logistics, acting as chair and/or commenter on panels, and participating in plenary meetings and judging sessions. For almost two decades (1983-2002), Ken also ran the Small Town Institute, a non-profit organization. In that capacity, Ken edited the institute’s bi-monthly journal and books. Ken undertook these service activities without additional salary or contractual requirements. He simply did it as a labor of love. These activities and accomplishments make him eminently worthy of emeritus status.
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COLLEGE OF BUSINESS
PROMOTED TO FULL PROFESSOR
Timothy Hargrave — Department of Management PhD, Strategic Management and Organization, University of Minnesota Dr. Timothy (Tim) Hargrave is an accomplished researcher, teacher, and community servant. His research addresses designing companies to serve both individual interests and the common good. He has won the College of Business’s award for research excellence. Dr. Hargrave’s teaching emphasizes critical thinking skills. He nurtures students while holding them to high standards. Dr. Hargrave serves on the university’s sustainability council and steering committees, chairs the College of Business’s strategic planning committee, and is finishing up as the interim co-chair of the Management department. He aims to never stop growing so that he can better serve his community.
PROMOTED TO SENIOR LECTURER
Pamela Ritzenthaler — Department of Finance and Supply Chain Management MS, Business Administration, Portland University Ms. Ritzenthaler joined the CWU faculty in 2019. Ms. Ritzenthaler’s commitment to excellent teaching across three departments and a variety of courses has been remarkable since then. The significant effort she puts into preparing and delivering high-quality instruction for numerous courses is commendable. Beyond her classroom contributions, she consistently goes above and beyond to support students and the college community. A particularly noteworthy example is her significant mentorship and support of the Women in Business Club. Ms. Ritzenthaler’s contributions to both the Department of FIN & SCM and the College have been invaluable. I wholeheartedly congratulate her on her promotion to Senior Lecturer.
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AWARDED EMERITUS STATUS
Peter Gray — Department of Economics MS, Economics and Political Science, California Institute of Technology Senior Lecturer Peter Gray's 12 years at Central Washington University showcase a deep commitment to student learning, making him a deserving candidate for Emeritus Professor status. His effectiveness in the classroom was consistently noted by the Economics Department. Peter's teaching spanned diverse subjects at both undergraduate and graduate levels within Economics, Finance, Supply Chain, and Resource Management. He developed and taught courses such as Agricultural Economics and Policy and Energy Economics, demonstrating his ability to create engaging and relevant curriculum. He connected his extensive prior experience at institutions like Caltech's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the Environmental Law Institute to his teaching, offering students real-world context in economics and statistics classes. Beyond scheduled classes, Peter was known for his consistent presence in his office, readily meeting with and advising students. His long-standing dedication to the White Pass Ski Area as a ski patrol member further exemplifies his commitment to service and willingness to assist others.
Robert Holtfreter — Department of Accounting PhD, Accounting, University of Nebraska
After over three decades of exemplary service, Professor Robert E. Holtfreter is retiring from Central Washington University, leaving behind a legacy marked by excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service. Joining CWU in 1993, Dr. Holtfreter has profoundly impacted students and colleagues through his expertise in managerial accounting and fraud examination. A prolific scholar, he has authored more than 100 articles in top-tier journals and served on editorial boards for several leading publications in forensic accounting. His national reputation as a fraud expert has elevated CWU’s academic standing and inspired generations of students, many of whom now lead in major organizations. Recognized with CWU’s Distinguished Research and Service Awards, Dr. Holtfreter also received the National Phi Kappa Phi Ray Sylvester Distinguished Service Award. His career has been dedicated to advancing knowledge, mentoring students, and serving the profession with integrity and distinction.
Anderson Parks — Department of Management MBA, Keller Graduate School of Management
Professor Andy Parks has contributed greatly with his contributions in teaching and service. With a career enriched by industry experience at Coca-Cola, Prof. Parks has delivered engaging instruction that bridges theory and practice, fostering student success through real-world applications and collaborative projects. His leadership in emotional intelligence and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has significantly impacted the university and broader community. As the Milton Kuolt Professor of Business, he has conducted DEI workshops nationwide, earning accolades such as the Reginald Wilson Diversity Leadership Award and was featured on a Harvard Business Review podcast. His roles as DEI Faculty Fellow and co-chair of Washington Employers for Racial Equity (WERE) initiatives underscore his commitment to inclusive excellence. Prof. Parks dedication has profoundly influenced students, faculty, and professionals alike.
Mark Pritchard — Department of Management PhD, Leisure Services, University of Oregon
During Dr. Pritchard’s tenure at CWU, he promoted curricula-wide industry integration via Service- Learning projects with corporate clients. This service-learning provided students with high impact projects. He organized an annual bootcamp with industry partners, developed and launched the NWCSB’s Certificate in Sport Business. Dr. Pritchard was the Founding Director of the Northwest Center for Sport Business (NWCSB) and co-chaired the CWU Economic Outlook Conference for two years. These two endeavors demonstrated Dr. Pritchard’s’ leadership ability in growing CWU’s sport business program. Dr. Pritchard was an active researcher with many publications and frequently the lead author. Dr. Pritchard received the Excellence in Research, Professional Service and Teaching Award during his time at CWU.
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COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PROMOTED TO FULL PROFESSOR
David Rolfe — Department of Sport and Movement Studies EdD, Recreation and Sport Management; University of Arkansas
Professor David Rolfe started his career at CWU in the Fall of 2016 in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences. In the Fall of 2018, he moved to the Department of Sport and Movement Studies. Dr. Rolfe’s passion for teaching and commitment to students, combined with the work he has done in growing the Northwest Center for Sport, make him indispensable to the Department. Recently, Dr. Rolfe was elected to serve as Department Chair of SAMS, and will begin his term on July 1. Of particular note is the fact that Dr. Rolfe is a CWU alum, having earned his undergraduate degree here.
PROMOTED TO ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Gabrielle McNeillie — Department of Sport and Movement Studies MFA, University of Arizona
Associate Professor Gabrielle McNeillie began her career at CWU in the Fall of 2015 as a lecturer in the Dance Program. In the Fall of 2018, she was hired as an Assistant Professor. She has helped to develop the Dance Program from a minor to a major, and in 2023 she assumed the position of Dance Program Coordinator. Beloved by her students, Professor McNeillie has helped them develop choreography they have performed both regionally and nationally, providing them with unforgettable experiences. Perhaps most noteworthy is the work she does in leading the Orchesis Dance Company, which allows students to showcase their talents here at CWU during an annual performance each spring.
Astrid Vidalon — Department of Family and Consumer Sciences MA, Apparel, Merchandising, and Textiles, Washington State University Professor Vidalón-Shields’ exemplary teaching is infused with high-impact practices that showcase cultural diversity, sustainability, and innovative teaching methods. Her students in the Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising program greatly value the engaging, inclusive, and supportive learning environment she fosters. In addition to her extensive committee service, she curated an exhibit at the Museum of Culture and the Environment and has delivered numerous presentations on Peruvian culture and textiles. Her scholarly contributions include creative productions, exhibitions, and publications, among others. As a dedicated educator and colleague, Vidalón-Shields is an invaluable member of the Family and Consumer Sciences faculty and the CWU community.
PROMOTED TO SENIOR LECTURER
Laura Williamson — Department of Information and Technology Management EdD, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Laura Williamson’s valuable contributions to the IT Management department include her work as an instructor, student advisor and mentor, curriculum developer, and FlexIT content coach. Her teaching exemplifies high impact practices, including real-world projects in her courses—to the delight of her students who learn to tolerate ambiguity and be accountable for deliverables. Over the last year she engaged in a collaborative revision of our project management specialization courses to align with industry standards, and she is working with a group of students to support them in launching a Project Management club here at the Ellensburg campus. Dr. Williamson’s promotion to Senior Lecturer is well-earned.
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AWARDED EMERITUS STATUS
Kim Bartel — Department of Family and Consumer Sciences PhD, Utah State University
Dr. Bartel served with distinction for 29 years in the Information Technology and Administrative Management and Family and Consumer Sciences departments at Central Washington University. Through her dedication to teaching in the Business and Marketing Education discipline, she has prepared hundreds of CTE teachers who have gone on to serve secondary students across Washington and beyond. Her exemplary service includes leadership and membership on numerous university, state, regional, and national committees, as well as coordination of both undergraduate and graduate programs. A respected scholar, Dr. Bartel has authored numerous presentations and publications in the fields of education, technology, and teacher preparation. Dr. Bartel's research has not only had implications for teacher educators nationwide but has also informed practices at CWU. Her record of excellence in teaching, service, and scholarship has left an indelible mark on CWU and her promotion to Emeritus Professor is a fitting recognition of her outstanding career. Craig Hughes — Department of Education, Development, Teaching, and Learning PhD, University of Colorado, Boulder From the year 2000 until his retirement in 2024, Dr. Craig Hughes served as a dedicated faculty member at Central Washington University, contributing significantly to the field of education. He earned his PhD in Social and Multicultural and Bilingual Foundations of Education from the University of Colorado, Boulder, where his dissertation, Overcoming the Margins: Mexican Descent Students and Academic Success, became his professorial roadmap. Dr. Hughes’ impressive career extended beyond teaching to include holding leadership roles such as Department Chair for one department and Interim Department Chair of two more. His work in grant development, particularly with the U.S. Department of Education’s Title VII Professional Development initiative and serving as Program Coordinator for Bilingual Education and Teaching English as a Second Language programs has helped shape and advance both programs. Dr. Hughes' contributions to the field of education have left a lasting impact on both CWU and the broader academic community. It is with great respect and admiration that we recognize him as Emeritus Faculty. Congratulations, Dr. Hughes!
Melody Madlem — Department of Health Sciences PhD, Community Health Education, Southern Illinois University
Dr. Melody Madlem has proudly served Central Washington University and its students for over 25 years. As a professor of Public Health, Dr. Madlem has tremendous passion for her students, striving to provide each and every student with a memorable and rewarding experience. She brings to the university a wealth of knowledge in school health, counseling, and public health promotion that has elevated the Public Health program. Dr. Madlem conducts research in meaningful areas including spirituality and health, strategic planning, social media approaches in health communications, and health equity/social justice. In addition to teaching and scholarship, Dr. Madlem has served in important leadership positions, including as the Director of Strategic Planning in the Office of the President and as the program coordinator for the Public Health program. Dr. Madlem is a respected and valued colleague who has certainly earned the recognition of Emeritus Faculty at CWU. Congratulations Dr. Madlem!
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COLLEGE OF THE SCIENCES
PROMOTED TO FULL PROFESSOR
Timothy Beng — Department of Chemistry PhD, Chemistry, University of Arkansas
Dr. Timothy K. Beng hails from Kuk village, Cameroon-Africa. He obtained BS and MS Chemistry degrees from the University of Buea and East Tennessee State University, respectively. Dr. Beng earned a PhD degree in Organic Chemistry from the University of Arkansas, working with Professor Gawley. He later moved to the University of California, Berkeley as an NIH postdoctoral fellow, under Professor Richmond Sarpong. His independent career commenced at Central Washington University in 2015 and he earned tenure and promotion to Associate Professor in 2020. Dr. Beng is a recipient of the 2024 President’s Diversity Award and the 2025 Distinguished Faculty Award for Scholarship. Dr. Beng has been promoted to the rank of Professor this year. His research focuses on the synthesis of nitrogen- containing cyclic compounds capable of treating neglected tropical diseases. Dr. Beng’s research efforts have produced over forty publications.
Cassandra Fallscheer — Department of Physics PhD, University of Heidelberg
Dr. Fallscheer joined the CWU physics department in 2014 and started on the tenure track in 2015. Since then, she primarily taught the courses for the astronomy minor, but she also teaches some of the physics courses. Dr. Fallscheer advises the CWU Astronomy Club and mentor astronomy minors in undergraduate research opportunities using the CWU 0.6-meter research telescope. For example, her students have studied eclipsing binary stars, asteroids, supernovae, exoplanets, and variable stars.
Jessica Mayhew — Department of Anthropology and Museum Studies PhD, University of St. Andrews
Dr. Mayhew typically conducts field and captive work with large-bodied apes and macaques. Her research interests include projects working to better understand behavior and cognition from an evolutionary perspective as well as those with conservation and animal welfare aims. She is particularly interested in the lives of juvenile primates, their development, and their social integration into groups via social play and affiliative relationships.
Liane Pereira — Department of Psychology PhD, McGill University
Liane C. Pereira, PhD is a Sri Lankan Canadian scholar-educator and a developmental psychologist. She previously worked as a secondary special education teacher for 14 years. Her research examines the inequities and intersectionality of the relationship among socioemotional, educational, and mental health outcomes in students.
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PROMOTED TO FULL PROFESSOR
Heidi Perez — Department of Psychology PhD, Educational Psychology, Northern Arizona University
Dr. Heidi Perez received her PhD in Educational Psychology from Northern Arizona University in 2012. She began teaching at CWU in 2013 for the department as an Assistant Professor and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2019. Most of her teaching has been in the School Psychology graduate program. She is an excellent educator and since becoming the Chair of the Department of Psychology in 2023 has become a skilled leader with an exemplary record of community-oriented activities for the department such as laying the groundwork to reopen the community clinic for youth clients and to relaunch the mental health counseling program.
Darci Snowden — Department of Physics PhD, Geophysics, University of Washington
Dr. Darci Snowden joined the Physics Department at Central Washington University in 2013 and serves as Director of the Northwest Earth and Space Sciences Pathways (NESSP), a NASA Science Activation program that inspires students to pursue STEM degrees. She earned her PhD in Geophysics, with a certificate in Astrobiology, from the University of Washington. Her research focuses on planetary science, especially the upper atmosphere of Saturn’s moon Titan. She has mentored dozens of CWU students from multiple departments in NASA-funded projects, including the National Eclipse Ballooning Project and NASA Student Launch. In her free time, she enjoys skiing, hiking, biking, and running.
Cody Stoddard — Department of Law and Justice PhD, University of Cincinnati
Dr. Cody Stoddard is the Chair and Associate Professor in the Law and Justice Department at Central Washington University, where he's known not just for his expertise, but for the genuine connection he builds with students. After earning his PhD in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati, he brought his passion for law, courts, and policing into the classroom—making complex topics relatable and engaging. His teaching journey has taken him through Boise State, Cincinnati, and Mount St. Joseph, but it’s at CWU where students consistently praise him as “amazing” and “hilarious,” valuing his clarity, supportiveness, and down-to-earth approach.
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COLLEGE OF THE SCIENCES
PROMOTED TO SENIOR LECTURER
Todd Mildon — Department of Law and Justice PhD, Law, Cornell University
After decades away, I am grateful to be teaching back in my hometown of Ellensburg. Just weeks after I joined the Department of Law and Justice, doctors confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Seattle. By the following quarter, everything changed. I will never forget the months of silence on campus. So, I am grateful also as I watch campus reawakening for students. I tell my students often that I have had dozens of jobs over the last 40+ years, and that the best—by far—is teaching and learning with them here at CWU. I thank them, and I thank you all, for the honor of being a teacher.
M. Shawn Reichert — Department of Political Science and William O. Douglas Honors College PhD, Political Science, Rice University
Shawn teaches in the Honors College and the Political Science Department including courses on democratic theory, war, conspiracy theories, the history of science, positive political economy, and European politics. His research interests include comparative political economy, European politics, and public policy. His published research focuses on European politics and higher education. Shawn spent a year living in Brussels, Belgium conducting research on the European Union Parliament. Before he studied European politics, Shawn’s research focused on the political economy of Latin America.
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AWARDED EMERITUS STATUS
Anthony Diaz — Department of Chemistry PhD, Chemistry, Oregon State University
Dr. Diaz has been a faculty member in the Department of Chemistry at CWU for 25 years. He taught general, inorganic, and physical chemistry courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and mentored many students outside the classroom in master’s theses and other research projects. He also served as Chair of the Chemistry Department from 2016 – 2020, during which time he established the department’s first Professional Advisory Committee. In his time at CWU he published more than 20 peer-reviewed research articles and obtained more than $800,000 in external funding. Other notable accomplishments include receiving the Alumni Association Excellence in Teaching Award and the Phi Kappa Phi Scholar of the Year Award.
Elaine Glenn — Department of Geography MS, Brigham Young University
Elaine Glenn has provided exemplary contributions to the Geography Department and the Douglas Honors College in over 30 years of employment at Central Washington University. Her passion for learning and teaching excellence left an indelible mark on our department and the more than 10,000 students fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her. Throughout her illustrious career, Lecturer Glenn demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to teaching students about Geography. Her dedication to fostering an environment in which every student thrived has not only enriched the academic experience of our students but also advanced their understanding of key issues in world regional and political geography. Elaine was an amazing recruiter of majors to the Geography Department, and her presence is greatly missed. It is also worth noting that Elaine’s outstanding contributions to teaching were duly recognized, as evidenced by her prestigious appointment as the Distinguished Faculty Non-Tenure Track Teaching in 2017. Her unwavering dedication to student learning has set a benchmark for excellence in teaching and has earned her the respect of colleagues and students alike.
Audrey Huerta — Department of Geological Sciences PhD, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Audrey’s time at CWU has focused on expanding the opportunities for undergraduate students. Hired to direct CWU's Science Honors Research Program, Audrey worked with COTS faculty and administrators to support undergraduate student participation in research projects. These research opportunities provided students with the skills to attain fulfilling careers. After the Science Honors Research Program was cancelled, Audrey worked with Dr. Ali Scoville to successfully fund the Solver Scholarship Program, providing funding (up to $20,000 per student), as well as academic and professional support for over 30 CWU undergraduates. This program changed the lives of so many deserving students, and Audrey considers the program one of her greatest accomplishments. In addition to supporting undergraduate students, Audrey focused her research on the Geology of the Antarctic Continent. Along with 5 of her students, Audrey has spent nine field seasons in Antarctica, digging holes, flying in small planes, ski- dooing for days, and repelling down mountain faces. This effort has resulted in numerous publications, and a better understanding of the history of the ice-covered continent. After retirement, Audrey will continue her research in Antarctica, but will take the time to cook, travel, and mountain bike.
Paul James — Department of Biological Sciences PhD, Oklahoma State University - Stillwater
Paul began his career at CWU in Fall Quarter 1990. As a fisheries ecologist, Paul immediately began to study Pacific Northwest streams with an aim for better conservation and management of native trout and salmon. He taught numerous ecology-related courses and received Excellence in his teaching reviews. He also made sure students got hands-on experience in the field, taking them on many field trips to experience our region's rich natural history. Paul served as an unofficial liaison between the Yakama Nation and CWU via his work in fisheries, and has directly influenced the education of a significant number of fish ecologists who are working professionals in our region. Most recently, he has been a critical part of a team of CWU biologists that study wildlife habitat connectivity along the I-90 Corridor near Snoqualmie Pass.
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LIBRARY
AWARDED EMERITUS STATUS
Maureen Rust — Library MLIS, University of Rhode Island
Associate Professor Maureen Rust’s dedicated service to CWU Libraries is marked by exceptional leadership, collaboration, and student-centered innovation. Over the years, she held key roles including Reference and Instruction Librarian, Student Engagement and Community Outreach Librarian, Collection Strategist, and Department Chair — each reflecting her unwavering commitment to meeting evolving institutional and student needs. Awarded early tenure in 2019, Associate Professor Rust distinguished herself through sustained excellence and service, earning regional recognition for her impactful contributions. She developed meaningful partnerships across the university, led engaging and creative student programming, advanced CWU Libraries’ marketing initiatives, and served as a trusted regional liaison for integrated reading programs. Accumulating a strong record of scholarship over the years, her publications represent innovative work and commentary within the field. Her tireless efforts to build goodwill and connection with students, colleagues, and community partners have left an enduring legacy. Above all, this amazing woman has left her mark. We are proud to honor Maureen Rust with emeritus status.
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2025 BOARD OF TRUSTEES DISTINGUISHED FACULTY AWARD
COLLEGE OF THE SCIENCES Susan Kaspari — Department of Geology PhD, Earth Sciences, University of Maine
The 2025 CWU Distinguished Faculty Awards Screening Committee agrees unanimously that Dr. Susan Kaspari, Professor of Geology, has met the rigorous criteria for this year’s Board of Trustees Distinguished Faculty Award. Dr Kaspari’s dossier provides ample evidence of excellence in all areas of teaching, scholarship, and service mentioned in the respective guidelines. Her nominator and accompanying support letters speak to 16 years of significant contributions as a role model for students and colleagues in all three areas. Especially pervasive in her dossier is the overwhelming recognition for her passion for her field of study and the resulting impact on students, colleagues, the university, the community, and her profession. TEACHING Dr. Susan Kaspari demonstrates depth and leadership in climate research and sustainability education at CWU. She has developed and led foundational courses, aligning objectives and assessments effectively. Her assignments, including field-based activities, are highly relevant and well-received. Over time, she has shifted from a “doom and gloom” narrative to empowering students toward climate action—an evolution that led to the creation of CWU’s Sustainability Certificate and Minor. Her passion and mentorship are widely recognized. She has advised over 65 student research projects, including 11 master’s students and 32 undergraduates, and co-advised 4 PhD students and a postdoc from international institutions. Her students have authored journal articles, presented at major conferences, and conducted research in China, Switzerland, and Iceland. Many have worked in her ice core lab or studied snow and glacier dynamics.
Her teaching materials on local climate impact earned "Exemplary" recognition from the Science Education Resource Center in 2011 and 2024. She has also contributed to pedagogical research, including a nationally adopted climate module and an upcoming book chapter on sustainability education. Letters from students and colleagues consistently highlight her commitment to student learning, innovation, scientific expertise, and care. Dr. Kaspari clearly meets the criteria for excellence in teaching. SCHOLARSHIP Dr. Kaspari has built an internationally recognized research program in climate science, specializing in the effects of light- absorbing particles on snow and ice melt and in reconstructing past climate using ice cores. Her work spans regions from the Cascades to the Himalayas and Arctic. She emphasizes translating research into action, aiming to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainability. Since joining CWU, she has published 30 Category A journal articles—15 as lead or co-lead author—garnering 705 citations and an H-index of 15. Her work appears in high-impact journals such as Journal of Geophysical Research, The Cryosphere, and Geophysical Research Letters. She has secured 16 external research grants, including a $417,518 NSF award supporting graduate students and international collaboration. A Fulbright Scholar in Norway, she has conducted fieldwork on Svalbard, furthering global understanding of climate change. With 39 conference presentations since 2009, her scholarship advances both the discipline and CWU’s research profile.
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The Board of Trustees Distinguished Faculty Award is bestowed on a faculty member who has demonstrated a long-term combined record of excellence in teaching, scholarship or artistic activities, and service at CWU. The Board of Trustees awards one recipient every other year.
SERVICE Dr. Kaspari has excelled in university, community, and professional service. At CWU, she directs the Environmental Studies program and led efforts to earn CWU a Silver STARS sustainability rating in 2022. As a Provost Fellow for Sustainability, she helped establish an AmeriCorps Sustainability Volunteer position and proposed a Sustainability Officer role, currently under state legislative consideration. She has facilitated faculty workshops, community forums, and developed CWU’s Sustainability website. Her contributions earned her the CWU Sustainability Champion Award in 2019 and 2020. Professionally, she is active in organizations such as the American Geophysical Union and AASHE, and is a frequent peer reviewer. She led Climate Science Day in Washington, D.C., and was recognized as an AGU Champion for Science. Her service also promotes equity, demonstrated through partnerships with APOYO, local school initiatives, and campus committee work. Letters describe her as a role model— collaborative, generous, and unwavering in her advocacy for sustainability and community well-being.
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Distinguished Teaching Awards are given for teaching excellence, as demonstrated by breadth and depth of knowledge; clarity in methodology and organization of materials, and effective methods of presentation; continued scholarship and integration of scholarship into course work; assistance to students in understanding the value and relevance of the subject matter and course materials, both within the discipline and in a broader context.
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DISTINGUISHED NON-TENURE TRACK FACULTY FOR TEACHING
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES AND DOUGLAS HONORS COLLEGE Matt Martinson — Department of English and
William O. Douglas Honors College
MA, Central Washington University MACS, The Seattle School
difficult but important questions.” Another praised the balance of fun and productivity, saying, “I would love to take more classes like this!” SEOIs consistently show exceptionally high ratings and reinforce his effectiveness as an instructor. Beyond the classroom, Professor Martinson has pursued scholarly work through published book reviews, SOURCE presentations, and successful grant writing for course development. In recognition of his outstanding mentorship, he received the 2024 GNAC Faculty Mentor Award. Students frequently cite Professor Martinson as a vital source of support, especially during personal challenges and the pandemic. Many credit him as a pivotal influence in their lives and careers — as educators, librarians, professors, and writing center directors. Professor Martinson’s dedication, creativity, and lasting impact on students embody the highest ideals of teaching. The committee enthusiastically supports his nomination for this distinguished honor.
The committee proudly recommends Professor Matt Martinson as the 2025 recipient of Central Washington University’s Distinguished Non-Tenure Track Faculty Teaching Award. A member of the English Department and Douglas Honors College since 2011, Professor Martinson exemplifies excellence through his passion for students, creative pedagogy, and a deep commitment to learning. Professor Martinson’s courses — ranging from Mountain Aesthetics to Comics in the U.S. to Satan and Society — demonstrate his innovative and engaging approach to teaching. His syllabi reflect imaginative assignments, such as designing book covers for literary classics and facilitating daily discussions in courses like The Art and Science of Living a Good Life. His classes are interactive, intellectually rigorous, and designed to push students to think critically and creatively. Students repeatedly describe his classes as inspiring and empowering. One student wrote, “No question was too big to tackle because Matt encouraged us to ask and answer the
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DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR FOR TEACHING
COLLEGE OF THE SCIENCES Patrick McCutcheon — Department of Anthropology and Museum Studies PhD, Anthropology, University of Washington
It is with great enthusiasm that we recommend Dr. Patrick McCutcheon for the 2025 Distinguished Tenure Track Faculty Teaching Award. For more than 25 years, Dr. McCutcheon has been an outstanding educator, mentor, and scholar, leaving a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the field of anthropology. His dedication has elevated CWU’s reputation and empowered generations of students to succeed in academia and professional archaeology. At CWU, the Distinguished Faculty Award for Teaching honors those who embody our mission of transformative education. It recognizes faculty who go beyond delivering content — those who innovate in the classroom, mentor with intention, and prepare students for real-world success. Dr. McCutcheon exemplifies this standard. Students consistently praise his engaging teaching style, deep subject knowledge, and commitment to their success. His evaluations are consistently high, with frequent comments on how he makes complex topics accessible through real-world examples and hands-on learning. In Spring 2024, a student wrote that his ANTH 426 course offered “a level of depth I have
not experienced in any other class.” Similar praise appears throughout his teaching history. Dr. McCutcheon has chaired 27 graduate theses, mentored numerous undergraduate projects, and led 17 summer field experiences—providing students with essential skills in archaeological methods and cultural resource management. Many of his students have gone on to publish, present at conferences, and assume leadership roles in the field. A model teacher-scholar, Dr. McCutcheon has co-authored over 79 professional presentations, articles, and technical reports, integrating this work into his courses to ensure students engage with current research and practices. Students and colleagues alike describe him as a passionate, supportive, and inspiring educator whose mentorship has profoundly shaped academic and professional lives. For his unwavering commitment to student learning and success, we wholeheartedly support Dr. McCutcheon’s nomination for the Distinguished Faculty Teaching Award. His legacy at CWU is enduring and deeply impactful.
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DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
The Distinguished Service Award recognizes endeavors that contribute to the welfare of individuals, professional organizations, university groups, the community at large, or the university.
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES M. Eliatamby-O'Brien — Department of English PhD, The University of British Columbia
We are pleased to recommend Dr. M. Eliatamby-O’Brien for the 2025 CWU Distinguished Faculty Service Award. An Associate Professor in the Department of English, Dr. Eliatamby-O’Brien has been a dedicated member of the CWU faculty since 2017, specializing in Global and Transnational Literature. Their extensive service builds upon a longstanding commitment to equity and inclusion at institutions including Simon Fraser University, the University of British Columbia, and the National University of Singapore. Since arriving at CWU, Dr. Eliatamby-O’Brien has served in numerous roles across departmental, college, university, and national levels. They have been an integral part of committees related to faculty search, curriculum, assessment, equity, general education, and retention. Notably, they served as a Faculty Senator (2019–2021), and as Director of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies since 2020. They have also contributed nationally and internationally as a book and article reviewer and conference presenter. What distinguishes Dr. Eliatamby-O’Brien’s service is their unwavering support of LGBTQ+ communities, particularly in rural Washington. With colleague Griff Tester, they co-founded
the Trans Rural Lives digital storytelling archive, giving voice to transgender elders in underrepresented regions. This work culminated in the Trans Rural Elders Conference, in partnership with Helen House, a local safe space for LGBTQ+ youth. Tylene Carnell, founder of Helen House, writes: “M. was a major partner and collaborator in capturing the lived experiences of trans elders—stories of survival, love, and everyday life—shared through recorded vignettes passed on to LGBTQ+ youth in rural Washington State and beyond.” Support letters from the PRIDE Foundation, the Washington Commission on Hispanic Affairs, and CWU colleagues further affirm the significance of Dr. Eliatamby-O’Brien’s service. Their work fosters intergenerational connection, combats isolation, and affirms the identities of rural LGBTQ+ youth. Dr. Eliatamby-O’Brien’s service is deeply interwoven with their teaching and scholarship, broadening perspectives and enriching the CWU community. We are honored to recommend them for the 2025 CWU Distinguished Faculty Service Award and celebrate their enduring contributions to equity, visibility, and institutional transformation.
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DISTINGUISHED FACULTY OF SCHOLARSHIP/ ARTISTIC ACCOMPLISHMENT AWARD
COLLEGE OF THE SCIENCES Timothy Beng — Department of Chemistry PhD, Chemistry, University of Arkansas
Dr. Beng’s work has elevated the reputation of CWU’s Department of Chemistry and the university as a whole. Letters of support from colleagues, students, and leaders in academia and industry — including Pfizer, Seattle Children’s Hospital, and UC Berkeley — underscore his national visibility and collaborative research approach. One letter even notes that R1 institutions have tried to recruit him multiple times, a testament to his research excellence. In addition to publishing and mentoring, Dr. Beng has successfully secured substantial external funding, expanding research opportunities for students and increasing CWU’s visibility in the scientific community. His work on topics such as advanced cancer treatments exemplifies research that is both cutting-edge and socially impactful. Dr. Beng embodies the teacher-scholar model at CWU. His innovative research, dedication to student mentorship, and scholarly rigor make him an ideal recipient of this year’s Distinguished Faculty of Scholarship/Artistic Accomplishment Award.
The committee is proud to recommend Dr. Timothy Beng, Associate Professor of Chemistry, as the 2025 recipient of Central Washington University’s Distinguished Faculty of Scholarship/Artistic Accomplishment Award. Since joining CWU in 2015, Dr. Beng has established himself as a prolific scholar and an exemplary teacher-scholar, contributing significantly to his field and to the academic life of the university. Since earning his PhD in 2011 from the University of Arkansas, Dr. Beng has maintained a remarkable scholarly record. At CWU alone, he has published 26 peer-reviewed articles, many in top-tier journals such as those of the Royal Society of Chemistry—research productivity on par with faculty at Research-1 institutions, all while maintaining a full teaching load. A hallmark of Dr. Beng’s work is his commitment to student research. He has mentored dozens of students who have gone on to present at regional and national conferences and publish in academic journals. Under his guidance, CWU students have earned more than 30 research awards. He has also secured multiple Faculty Student Grants, further supporting meaningful undergraduate research experiences.
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The Distinguished Faculty of Scholarship/Artistic Accomplishment Award recognizes scholarly or scientific investigation or inquiry, conducted to advance the state of knowledge of the discipline. Artistic accomplishment is defined as the composition, creation, production or other significant and/or innovative contribution to an artistic event.
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CWU is an EEO/AA/Title IX Institution. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, email Disability Services at DS@cwu.edu. 25PRES-CS4028BB
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