Faculty and Staff Awards

All-College Awards

Honorees are nominated by their peers and selected by a review committee. The awards recognize faculty and staff members who exhibit exemplary performance, along with outstanding graduate and undergraduate students, alumni, Friends of the College, and individuals who embody the Spirit of CHHS.

2026 CHHS All-College Awardees — 2026 All-College Awardees

Photos of individual winners are included with each award. See all event photos on Flickr.

2025-26 Award Winners

Katie Gerst, Human Development and Family Studies

Katie creates active classrooms, welcoming spaces built on Universal Design, clear expectations through transparency in learning and teaching, and strong collaborative student groups. Through case studies, role-playing, and student-led discussions, she makes complex ideas approachable and meaningful.

Students thrive because her teaching blends structure with warmth, innovation with care, and rigor with genuine human connection.

Janell Pisegna, Occupational Therapy

Janell’s teaching uses evidence-based instructional approaches, including backward design, a flipped classroom, and low-stakes knowledge check quizzes that prepare students for class and practice.

Through team case assignments, real-world clinical application, and plans of care based on actual client experiences, students build confidence and clinical reasoning. Janell creates a welcoming, nonjudgmental learning environment and expands discovery through interdisciplinary education with music therapy.

Kami Stutzman, Design and Merchandising

Kami’s teaching emphasizes experiential and value-added learning through hands-on labs, field trips, and industry-based projects. In Lighting Design and History of Interior Architecture and Design, students engage in interactive discussions, case studies, concept maps, and real-world observation using lighting labs and museum visits.

Kami is known for creating an inclusive, high-energy environment where classroom concepts meet professional standards. By bridging the gap between the studio and the industry, she uses the latest technologies and expert connections to illuminate the path toward her students’ future careers.

Shelbie Engelking, School of Social Work

As an academic adviser, Shelbie embodies holistic advising with a focus on access, inclusion, and student success. She is a thoughtful and empathetic listener, a proactive advocate, and a trusted guide for students navigating academic, personal, and professional challenges.

Through leadership of the Elevate peer mentoring program, clear communication, and intentional community building, she fosters belonging, promotes student voice, and creates pathways for students—especially first-generation and underrepresented students—to thrive at CSU.

Arlene Schmid, Occupational Therapy

In her role as Director of the Ph.D. Program in Occupation and Rehabilitation Science, Arlene provides consistent, thoughtful, and collaborative mentoring. Through regular interaction with students, she sets clear expectations, and supports the production of papers, presentations, and grants. She has also mentored OTD capstone students and supported postdoctoral fellows—often guiding students to publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences. Her mentoring is described as gentle, focused, and confidence building, fostering a strong sense of belonging while preparing graduate students and early career faculty for long-term academic and professional success.

Nick Bell, Human Development and Family Studies

Nick began his journey at CSU as a Human Development and Family Studies major and has made the most of it! He has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA while standing out for his leadership, service, and research excellence. As a research assistant in the Health, Emotion, and Aging Research Team, Nick is consistently recognized as one of the program’s strongest undergraduate researchers.

Beyond the classroom and lab, he has taken on meaningful leadership roles with Campus Connections, by cofounding Bereaved Rams, and by supporting fellow students through mentoring, advocacy, and service. Nick exemplifies purpose-driven engagement and academic distinction, and we are proud to recognize his accomplishments today.

Kinzie Matzeller, Food Science and Human Nutrition

A Ph.D. student in Food Science and Nutrition and registered dietitian nutritionist, Kinzie demonstrates exceptional research excellence, leadership, and service. Her work on infant feeding and health has produced multiple peer-reviewed publications, national and international conference presentations, and recognition for “Best Abstract” at a major international meeting. She leads clinical research teams, mentors undergraduate and graduate students, engages in nutrition policy advocacy, and contributes to teaching—exemplifying scholarly impact, professionalism, and commitment to advancing public health. Kinzie was named CHHS Dean’s Fellow for next year.

Ruoh-Nan (Terry) Yan, Design and Merchandising

For nearly two decades, Terry has demonstrated sustained, exemplary service to her department, the College of Health and Human Sciences, and Colorado State University. As Chair of the CHHS Curriculum Committee and College Representative to the University Curriculum Committee, she has led complex curriculum processes with clarity, collaboration, and deep institutional knowledge. Her service extends through faculty mentoring, student advising, and leadership of professional student organizations—advancing access, academic quality, and community impact across the college.

Heather Krout, Construction Management

Serving as Business Officer since 2018, Heather has advanced the work of her department and the College of Health and Human Sciences through exceptional organization, fiscal stewardship, and proactive problem solving. Managing more than 100 accounts across multiple funding sources, she ensures continuity, compliance, and sound planning. Known as a trusted first point of contact, Heather supports faculty, staff, and students with warmth and reliability. When challenges arise—such as shifting budgets, new systems, or major events—she anticipates needs, streamlines processes, and keeps projects on track. Her sustained commitment, collaborative spirit, and dedication to access and success make her an indispensable contributor to the CSU community.

Andy Persch, Occupational Therapy

Andy’s research has transformed post-secondary employment support for youth and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through the Vocational Fit Assessment and VocFit Reports. These tools deliver measurable, real-world impact on practice, policy, and access. Used more than 25,000 times worldwide, these tools are embedded in Project SEARCH, the national and international gold standard for transition to work programming. Andy has secured nearly $15 million in external funding and authored influential peer-reviewed publications. A dedicated mentor and collaborative scholar, he advances access and success by translating rigorous research into inclusive, real-world practice that improves participation, employment outcomes, and quality of life.

Alex C. Lange, School of Education

Alex’s scholarship has made a significant impact on higher education by centering LGBTQ+ and transgender student experiences, student development theory, and identity-based student activism. In addition to more than 20 peer-reviewed journal articles, influential books and chapters, and competitive external funding, they engage in public scholarship through media, podcasts, reports, and national presentations, ensuring research reaches practitioners and decision makers. Alex has earned recognition as a national leader and contributor to bias-free publishing guidelines and equity-focused initiatives. Their work is widely cited and used across the higher education field to inform institutional policy, guide professional practice, and advance access, inclusion, and student success in meaningful and lasting ways.

Ally Brothers, Human Development and Family Studies

In addition to her 80% teaching appointment, Ally’s scholarship has made internationally recognized contributions to the science of aging. She has co-developed widely adopted measures of subjective aging —how people perceive, interpret, and emotionally respond to their own aging process. Ally has authored high-impact publications, and contributed to the development of the AgingPlus intervention, recently tested in an NIH-funded clinical trial. Through community-engaged research such as Senior Access Points, she has reached more than 20,000 Larimer County residents, with rigorous science translated into accessible resources that improve health, challenge ageism, and strengthen well-being for older adults locally and beyond.

Anna Fontana, Construction Management

For more than 18 years, Anna has embodied CSU’s land-grant mission by building transformative partnerships between the university, industry, and community. As Manager of Employer Relations and the Internship Program in Construction Management, she connects students with meaningful professional experiences that help in launching their careers. Her leadership of the Women in Construction Management Summer Institute, the Quarter Project with the Boys & Girls Club, and statewide sector partnerships has expanded access, inspired thousands of K–12 and college students, and strengthened Colorado’s construction workforce. Her engagement creates a lasting impact through collaboration, access, and opportunity.

Marla C. Roll, Occupational Therapy

As Associate Professor and Director of the Assistive Technology Resource Center, Marla has advanced accessibility at CSU for more than three decades. Under her leadership, the ATRC has grown into a nationally recognized model, supporting students and employees through assistive technology, training, and inclusive design. Her work has driven campuswide adoption of digital accessibility tools, influenced state policy on disability inclusion, and created equitable pathways to learning, employment, and community participation—demonstrating sustained, transformative impact on access and success. Marla’s career at CSU has made a measurable impact.

Jackson Ballard, Human Development and Family Studies

Since transferring to CSU, Jackson has demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and commitment to inclusive education. Through his work with the CSU Trauma and Resilience Assessment Center, he supports community-based mental health services with care and professionalism. As a leader in RAM Scholars, he designs inclusive lessons for students with intellectual disabilities and mentors peers. His teaching, research, and service consistently expand access, foster belonging, and strengthen pathways to success for underserved students and communities.

Ally Tripure, Health and Exercise Science

Ally’s graduate work exemplifies access, inclusion, and student success. A 4.0 student, accomplished researcher, and award‑winning presenter, she also stands out as a mentor who opens doors for others. In the Integrative Biology Laboratory, she guides undergraduate researchers—especially first‑generation and early‑career students—building confidence and belonging. She strengthened teaching equity by helping redesign and standardize GTA and laboratory materials, removing barriers for instructors and learners alike. Beyond campus, her leadership with Pedal the Pacific blends advocacy, training, and mentorship to combat human trafficking. Through scholarship, teaching, service, and community‑building, Ally creates pathways where others can thrive.

Sue James – Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs

We are so happy to recognize Sue James as a Friend of the College. During her six-year tenure as Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs, Sue supported faculty success across the career span. She helped to hire and onboard faculty and department leaders. She led our institution to engage in equitable faculty success practices. And she advocated and supported countless faculty and administrators through challenges and opportunities. She has fostered faculty success in her work with every department head and school director in our college, the dean and the dean’s team, and numerous faculty members. Thank you, Sue, for your many layers of support and inspiration you have given our college and campus.

Kevin MacLennan – Vice President for Enrollment and Access

Students are the north star for our college. When it comes to bringing students to CSU and supporting them while they are here, we are so fortunate to have Kevin serving as CSU’s Vice President for Enrollment and Access, where he brings his vision, energy, and expertise to guide vital teams that attract, retain, and support students: the Offices of Admissions, Financial Aid, and the Registrar. Kevin is a brilliant, supportive, and strategic partner in our efforts to grow and support the programs in our college. His deep enthusiasm for student success is infectious, and his leadership and collaboration have helped us realize enrollment gains across our departments – at a time when enrollment is such a priority. Thank you, Kevin, for the many, many ways you help students find their academic home in CHHS.

Food Bank for Larimer County

Healthy food energizes movement, learning, and connection across the lifespan, and across our college. We are grateful for the nourishment Food Bank for Larimer County has provided our community since 1984. Over 100 agency partners connect community members with Food Bank resources, including youth in our signature college outreach activities. Since 2010, Campus Connections Therapeutic Youth Mentoring Program participants have enjoyed hot meals from the Food Bank while they bond with their CSU student mentors in weekly gatherings. And, for the past three summers, Youth Sport Camps participants have enjoyed more than 10,000 free lunches from the Food Bank. We celebrate innovative, efficient, and empowering services the Food Bank provides to so many.

Dave Davis, Food Science and Human Nutrition

Dave earned his Master of Science degree in Food Science and Nutrition in 2013. Since then, he has demonstrated his Ram Pride and built an exceptional career as a servant leader in food safety and quality. His roles have included serving as Vice President of Food Safety and Quality for nationally recognized brands including noosa yoghurt, Rao’s Homemade, Sovos Brands, The Campbell’s Company, and Good Culture. While a graduate student, he helped develop and teach FTEC 460, helping to lay the foundation for CSU’s fermentation and food science program. Dave regularly returns to CSU to give guest lectures, and he has hired, coached, and mentored countless Ram students and alumni. Through his industry leadership and sustained engagement with CSU, he has elevated the university’s reputation and advanced the culture and future of food science.