Seaver College Recognizes Faculty and Staff with 2026 College Awards

Loyola Marymount University Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering honored Deepa Dabir, Mary Johnson, Michael Manoogian, and NaKesha Mayfield with 2026 college awards for excellence in teaching and advising, research, and service.

Michael Manoogian, professor of civil and environmental engineering, was awarded the 2026 Elizabeth and Michael Rudinica Prize for Teaching and Advising, which honors excellence in instruction and mentorship that enriches students' academic experience. With 34 years at LMU, Manoogian is recognized as a student-centered educator whose teaching fosters curiosity, inspires students, and helps them navigate academic challenges with confidence.

Students consistently praise Manoogian for his ability to adapt courses to meet their needs. His classes are known for their hands-on components and real-world applications, helping students draw clear connections between their coursework and future careers. Through this approach, he not only deepens student learning but also helps them discover their passions and professional paths.

Deepa Dabir, professor of biology, received the 2026 Elizabeth and Michael Rudinica Prize for Student-Faculty Research, which honors excellence in collaborative research and mentorship. An accomplished teacher-scholar, Dabir has mentored numerous undergraduate researchers, many of whom have become co-authors on peer-reviewed publications. Her work highlights the transformative role of undergraduate research in fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and career exploration.

Dabir has secured significant external funding, including major National Institutes of Health (NIH) awards, providing students with valuable research opportunities while advancing impactful scholarship. Her work has been published in leading journals, including the Journal of Biological Chemistry and Nature, reflecting both scholarly distinction and meaningful student engagement.

Seaver College also recognized two staff members with its Outstanding Staff Award, honoring individuals who go above and beyond to support fellow colleagues, students, and the Seaver community in ways that demonstrate service, dedication, initiative, and professionalism.

Mary Johnson, senior administrative coordinator for the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, was recognized for her reliability, organization, and deep commitment to students and colleagues. Known for creating a welcoming and supportive environment, Johnson provides both administrative expertise and thoughtful guidance. From coordinating teaching assistant schedules to fostering community-building traditions, her work strengthens both her department and the broader Seaver community.

NaKesha Mayfield, operations and planning manager for Seaver College, was also honored for her positive leadership and collaborative spirit. Highly regarded for her responsiveness and professionalism, Mayfield plays a key role in organizing large-scale college events while serving as a trusted resource for faculty and staff. She is the ultimate "go-to person" whose ability to support colleagues and build community reflects the essential role of staff in advancing Seaver's mission.

In 2007, Elizabeth '79 and Michael Rudinica '75, M.S. '79 established an endowment to recognize two meritorious faculty members each year. Mike shared that his motivation for the endowment stemmed from the profound difference faculty members made in his education. Both awards honor the recipients' ability to inspire independent and creative thinking in students and to encourage their intellectual interests and curiosity. The awards recognize advising and mentorship that enriches Seaver students' academic experience.

Congratulations to all of Seaver's 2026 winners!