OSU honors faculty, staff at 2025 awards convocation

OSU honors faculty, staff at 2025 awards convocation

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Media Contact: Kaitlyn Henry | Marketing Strategist | 405-744-6263 | [email protected]

The Oklahoma State University Division of Academic Affairs wrapped up 2025 with its annual University Awards Convocation on Monday in the Student Union Ballroom.

Provost Jeanette Mendez and Vice Provost Chris Francisco awarded 64 staff, faculty and administrators across 19 categories, each nominated by supervisors and colleagues.

"This annual celebration provides an opportunity to recognize and commemorate the outstanding achievements of so many of OSU's faculty and staff," Dr. Mendez said. "And, while this ceremony is something we do every year, I continue to be amazed at the dedication and innovative spirit of the OSU family."

Dr. DJ McMaughan - associate professor of community health sciences, counseling and counseling psychology - was a recipient of two awards. McMaughan received the President's Fellow Research and Regents Research Awards, highlighting McMaughan's dedication to groundbreaking research and OSU's land grant mission.

There were 21 recipients across eight university divisions for the newly appointed chair and professorship holders, awarding each a medallion and recognition for their investment in furthering their areas of discipline.

Dr. Rudra Channappanavar - associate professor of veterinary pathobiology - was another recipient of multiple awards, being recognized for his dedication to research in his field and his demonstration of "an exceptionally strong potential for continued contributions to the university" by Dr. Francisco.

Other recipients of the Distinguished Early Career Faculty Award include Dr. Amy Hagerman, associate professor of veterinary pathobiology; Dr. Elizabeth McCullagh, associate professor of biology; Dr. Brooke Coe, associate professor of political science; Dr. Imraan Faruque, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering; Dr. Lindsey Greco, associate professor of management; and Sumit Mandal, associate professor of design and merchandising.

The Land-Grant Award for Excellence was awarded to Dr. Brian Whitacre - professor and Jean and Patsy Neustadt Chair in the Ferguson College of Agriculture - for his commitment to OSU's land-grant mission through his research, teaching and Extension efforts.

"His leadership in expanding rural broadband, telehealth access and digital literacy … has tangibly improved the quality of life across rural Oklahoma while shaping state broadband policy," Francisco said. "At the same time, his mentorship of students and collaboration with organizations such as AARP exemplify how applied scholarship and community engagement can directly advance the land-grant ideal of 'scholarship with a purpose, service to the people.'"

The Leave the Ladder Down Awards recognized faculty member Holley Hansen, teaching professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, and staff member Casey Domnick, assistant director of fraternity and sorority affairs with Campus Life.

"Dr. Hansen exemplifies exceptional mentorship and dedication to student success, empowering undergraduates through research opportunities, professional development and personalized guidance that extends beyond graduation," Francisco said.

"(Domnick's) leadership within Campus Life and beyond has fostered a culture of empowerment and excellence, leaving a lasting impact on those he supports at OSU and across the broader higher education community."

The University Service Awards were given to Ulli Schoenknecht, a senior academic advisor for the College of Arts and Sciences, and Cindy Haseley, director of business operations for the College of Education and Human Sciences. Both individuals have served long tenures at the university, totalling over 50 years of service.

The Eminent Faculty Award is recognized as the greatest level of scholarly success given to a faculty member through a highly competitive process. This year's recipient was Dr. Sam Fuhlendorf, Regents professor of natural resource ecology and management.

"His mentorship of over 50 graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, coupled with exemplary teaching and extensive service to professional societies and state agencies, reflects his deep commitment to developing future scientists and advancing conservation science," Francisco said. "His national and international impact, groundbreaking scholarship, and enduring service make him the most deserving candidate for the 2025 Eminent Faculty Award."

Story By: Kenzie Kraich | [email protected]