A legacy of empowering students: WSU’s Amy Roth McDuffie receives Chosen Coug Award

Washington State University mathematics education professor Amy Roth McDuffie has been named the spring 2025 Chosen Coug for her outstanding leadership, mentorship, and friendship.

Roth McDuffie was recognized during a special Chosen Coug Ceremony Saturday, April 5, in the Elson S. Floyd Cultural Center.

WSU graduate student Johana Thomas Zapata nominated Roth McDuffie for the award because of the profound impact she has had on her success at WSU. Thomas Zapata, an international student from Honduras and the first in her family to go to college, reached out to Roth McDuffie in 2019 after being awarded the Fulbright Scholarship. Since then, she has served as her advisor and collaborator, helping to guide her through every step of her academic journey.

"As my mentor, dissertation chair, and a person who has gone above and beyond to make me feel at home at Washington State University, she has shaped my academic, professional, and personal growth in ways I can never fully express," Thomas Zapata wrote in her nomination.

Roth McDuffie came to WSU as an instructor in 1998 and worked her way up to being a full professor in 2013. She also served as associate dean for research and external funding in the College of Education for WSU Pullman, Spokane, Tri-Cities, and Vancouver from 2015 to 2019.

By inviting Thomas Zapata to conduct research closely with her, Roth McDuffie has helped her develop top notch research skills and provided her with opportunities to network with faculty across WSU. She has always demonstrated a unique balance of leadership and collaboration.

"Whether she is leading, coaching, or working alongside me, she has consistently empowered me to contribute to our projects and provided constructive feedback that has helped refine my skills as a researcher and educator," wrote Thomas Zapata.

'Ensuring all voices are heard'

As someone who hails from Honduras, Thomas Zapata is drawn to Roth McDuffie's inclusive approach. She helped her navigate the challenges associated with adjusting to a different culture and academic system, embracing Thomas Zapata's multicultural and multilingual background while making sure she never felt isolated.

"I have benefited immensely from her commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard and valued," wrote Thomas Zapata. "She has played a significant role in fostering an academic community at WSU where diversity is celebrated, and students feel empowered to succeed."

It is that kind of commitment that helped Roth McDuffie's nomination rise among a strong pool of candidates, according to Roberto Morales, director of the Access Center and selection committee member.

"Professor Roth McDuffie exemplifies what the Cougs helping Cougs spirit is all about," Morales said. "Her unwavering dedication to her students' academic and personal growth has profoundly shaped the experiences of many at WSU, both inside and outside the classroom, making her a truly deserving recipient of the Chosen Coug Award."

The Chosen Coug Award is managed by Student Affairs and recognizes individuals from across the university system who have made a substantial impact on a student's experience at WSU. Joining Morales on the selection committee were Jeanne Weiler, coordinator of presidential initiatives in the Office of the President, and Lauren Graziano, WSU corporate engagement coordinator.