Celebrating Excellence
The Idaho State University College of Education's annual Celebrating Excellence Award Ceremony is a chance to honor and celebrate our incredible faculty, staff, alumni, and community members.
Save the Date!
The 2025 Idaho State University College of Education's annual Celebrating Excellence event will be on Friday, April 25, 2025 in the ICCU Bengal Alumni Center.
The schedule of events will include:
4:00 - 5:10 PM
Research Poster Session & Social Hour
The research poster session will showcase a range of innovative projects and research within the College of Education and also those through the Dean’s Excellence Fund. Posters will be presented by students and faculty. Refreshments will be served.
5:10 - 5:25 PM
Keynote Presentation: Dr. Rob Lion
Dr. Rob Lion, professor of human resource development at ISU, will deliver the inaugural keynote presentation. Dr. Lion’s presentation, titled “Culture-First Hiring: Finding Employees Who Thrive, Not Just Survive,” will introduce a research-driven approach to hiring that goes beyond traditional metrics. This topic will explore how organizations can focus on “fit factors” that align with their culture, promote collaboration, and foster sustainable success. This approach helps to identify employees who will thrive, ultimately driving engagement, retention, and organizational growth.
Dr. Lion’s philosophy, “work should fuel the human spirit, not drain it,” influences everything from his research and teaching to his consulting practices. His work has been featured in prominent journals such as the Journal of Organizational Psychology, Journal of Behavioral Studies in Business, and the Organization Management Journal. Additionally, Dr. Lion consults with leaders across various sectors, including nonprofits, education, government, and corporate industries, to develop high-performing teams and elevate workplace culture. As a recognized thought leader in his field, Dr. Lion applies innovative and research-driven approaches to help organizations navigate complex challenges, foster engagement, and build resilient leadership structures.
5:30 PM
Awards Ceremony
The evening will conclude with the Celebrating Excellence awards ceremony, recognizing and celebrating the achievements of College of Education faculty, staff, alumni, and partners.
Celebrating Excellence Award Winners 2025
College of Education Staff Excellence Award: Ms. Veronica Garcia
This award is presented to a staff member of the Idaho State University College of Education who has had a significant impact on furthering the College's mission and vision by consistently going above and beyond.
College of Education Faculty Excellence Award: Dr. Amanda Eller
This award is presented to faculty of the Idaho State University College of Education who have made a significant impact on furthering the College's mission and vision through service, teaching and/or research.
College of Education Young Alumnus Impact Award: Ms. Catherine Rider
This award is presented to an alumnus of the Idaho State University College of Education who have graduated during the last ten years and have achieved significant accomplishments since degree completion. (Formerly called Outstanding Early Career Alumnus Award)
College of Education Alumni Teaching Excellence Award: No Winner Selected for 2025
This award is presented to an alumnus of the Idaho State University College of Education in recognition of outstanding achievement and contribution through their teaching. (Formerly called Outstanding Educator Award)
College of Education Alumni Leadership Excellence Award: Mr. Zebulon Sion
This award is presented to alumni of the Idaho State University College of Education with at least five years of professional experience who have demonstrated exceptional progress and potential in leadership in their respective field. (Formerly called Distinguished Leader Award)
College of Education Bengal Partner Award: Ms. Aubi Moon
This award is presented in recognition of an individual who has demonstrated exceptional service to the Idaho State University College of Education. Service may include support of activities, volunteered service through participation on college committees, or fundraising.
Kole - McGuffey Prize for Excellence in Educational Research: Dr. Theresa Huff
The Peter C. Kole - William H. McGuffey Prize for Excellence in Educational Research is the most prestigious award that is bestowed by the College of Education, specifically for doctoral students. The award recognizes the exceptional quality of research and its meaningful, unique contribution to the field of education.
Learn more about the Celebrating Excellence Past Award Winners .