Warner is 2026 Governor’s Award Recipient, 6 receive annual Faculty Excellence awards

Adam Bochart, instructor of mass media in the School of Communication and Mass Media

Bochart has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student engagement, going far beyond the standard expectations of classroom instruction. He often spends an additional 30 hours per week working directly with students on various projects, productions and initiatives. His one-on-one mentorship fosters student growth in ways that traditional classroom instruction cannot fully capture.

He has become a guiding force, meeting students where they are and elevating their work to new creative and professional levels. His ability to cultivate students' passions, challenge them to exceed their own expectations and equip them with the skills needed for professional success is truly commendable.

Tish Warner, senior instructor of chemistry in the School of Natural Sciences

Warner's student evaluation scores consistently rank among the highest in her discipline, while students praise her helpfulness, patience and ability to explain difficult concepts. That is especially noteworthy when considering a significant portion of Warner's teaching load is courses dedicated to non-science majors, with many students arriving with negative past experiences in science.

She transforms perceptions in her classroom, fostering scientific literacy at a time when it is urgently needed. One student wrote, "I am not very fond of chemistry, but I need it for my degree. With that said, I love Mrs. Warner and have been more engaged with her teachings. She is super kind and uplifting while keeping her strong and funny personality. She is an excellent teacher and role model."

Faculty Excellence Award for Scholarship

Dr. Nina Adanin, assistant professor of recreation in the School of Health Science and Wellness

Adanin had six journal article publications and 18 peer-reviewed conference presentations and workshops during 2024-25. She regularly makes invited presentations to various professional and interest groups. She also has demonstrated exceptional skill and success as a grant writer and as an international leader through her work with the Last Tropical Glaciers Project.

Adanin has developed an impactful line of research in the realm of statistical analysis and research methodology, resulting in the development of new data analysis software. She has become a mentor to other faculty, which has enhanced the collaborative interdisciplinary work within the School.

Dr. John Gallaher, professor of English in the School of Language, Literature and Writing

Gallaher published his eighth collection of poetry, "My Life in Brutalist Architecture," in 2024. In addition, he authored a poem for the anthology, "Invisible Strings," inspired by songs of Taylor Swift and published by Penguin Random House.

He also published more than 20 poems in national literary journals, guested on the podcast "Adoptees On," was interviewed by Colorado State University's Center for Literacy Publishing, read at 14 events, provided the cover art for two books and one journal, and presented at a national conference.

Faculty Excellence Award for Service

Kenton Wilcox, senior instructor of English in the School of Language, Literature and Writing

Wilcox has served for eight years as the faculty representative on Northwest's Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT). The group meets weekly to review reports of student behavior and concerns to decide on assessments, interventions and additional referrals. Wilcox provides a useful perspective on students' identities and well-being in the academic setting.

Due to his demonstrated excellence on BIT, Wilcox also serves on the local Sexual Assault Response Team (SART). He is working with University Police Chief Amanda Cullin to help strengthen communication between SARTs in the Northwest region. His involvement in this important and often difficult work contributes to the health of students, the University and the community.

Kelli Wilmes, instructor of nutrition and dietetics in the School of Health Science and Wellness

Wilmes is involved in extensive service activities to support students, her unit and the community. She advises students, sponsors the Northwest Student Dietetic Association and the Kappa Omicron Nu national honor society, plans lunch-and-learn sessions for students preparing to take their licensing exam, is the liaison for the Dietetic Advisory Board, supervises summer practicums, manages student employees, mentors dietetic ambassadors and coordinates all accreditation efforts.

Wilmes also devotes time to serve the community as the faculty advisor for the Christian Campus House, is the volunteer Head Start dietitian, and she manages the contract with the First United Methodist Church and Northwest for student CHOW volunteers.