Celebrating Excellence: Nistler College Honors Faculty & Staff at 2026 Recognition Ceremony

Celebrating Excellence: Nistler College Honors Faculty & Staff at 2026 Recognition Ceremony

The Nistler College of Business & Public Administration recently gathered to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments, dedication, and service of its faculty and staff during the 2026 Faculty & Staff Recognition Ceremony.

Held at the close of the spring semester, the event provided an opportunity for colleagues to connect, reflect on the year’s successes, and recognize individuals whose contributions continue to shape the college’s impact on students, the university, and the broader community.

“We are incredibly grateful to have such an exceptional team. I am grateful for each of you and the dedication you provide to the Nistler College,” said Interim Dean, Patrick O’Neill.

The ceremony highlighted award recipients whose work exemplifies excellence in teaching, research, service, student engagement, leadership, and collaboration.

Meritorious Faculty Awards

Meritorious Student Impact Award

Dr. Jane Weiss, Clinical Associate Professor, Herr School of Accountancy

Dr. Jane Weiss was recognized for her exceptional dedication to student learning and mentorship. Through initiatives focused on financial wellness, relationship-building in the Intro to Accounting Careers course, and her role as co-advisor of Beta Alpha Psi, Dr. Weiss has created meaningful and lasting impacts on students’ academic and professional journeys.

Her commitment to engaging students and helping them build strong foundations for future success reflects the very spirit of the Student Impact Award.

Meritorious Research Award

Laurence Lawson-Body, Senior Lecturer of Accountancy

Laurence Lawson-Body received the Meritorious Research Award for developing an impressive and impactful research agenda focused on the intersection of technology and accounting, including global considerations.

Her work not only contributes to scholarly conversations in the field but also enhances classroom instruction through the integration of data analytics and technology topics. Colleagues praised both the quality and quantity of her research publications, as well as her positive influence on the department’s research culture.

Meritorious Service Award

Dr. Benjamin Kassow, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science & Public Administration

Dr. Benjamin Kassow was honored for his exceptional commitment to service across the department, college, university, and profession.

Known for his willingness to step into leadership roles, Dr. Kassow serves as faculty advisor for the Pre-Law Society and Mock Trial team, has chaired important college committees, and contributed nationally through leadership in the APSA Law & Courts Best Journal Award Committee.

His colleagues highlighted both his unwavering professionalism and his dedication to giving back to the university community.

Meritorious Pedagogical Excellence Award

Dr. Jennifer Stoner, Associate Professor, Department of Marketing

Dr. Jennifer Stoner earned recognition for her innovative and engaging approach to teaching. Her courses emphasize experiential learning, real-world application, and student skill development across both local and synchronous hybrid formats.

Students consistently describe Dr. Stoner as one of their favorite professors, with many crediting her influence as a reason they chose to pursue marketing as a major.

One student nomination captured her impact best:

“She is passionate about her topics of instruction, but even more so about the students she teaches.”

Overall Meritorious Faculty Award

Dr. Xiaoli Guo, Assistant Professor, Herr School of Accountancy

The Overall Meritorious Faculty Award recognizes excellence across teaching, research, and service — and this year’s honoree, Dr. Xiaoli Guo, exemplified excellence in every area.

Dr. Guo has demonstrated exceptional performance while balancing a demanding workload, contributing high-quality research publications, creating challenging and engaging courses, and playing a critical role in organizing networking events, field trips, and alumni engagement opportunities.

Her work continues to strengthen student experiences and enhance the college’s reputation both regionally and nationally.

Meritorious Staff Awards

Winning with Teamwork Award

Kevin Dunn, Graduate Admissions Officer & Advisor

Kevin Dunn was recognized for his collaborative spirit and dedication to supporting graduate programs across the college.

From coordinating daily operations for the MPA and MSAEPA programs to serving on Staff Senate and leading the Nistler Staff Council, Dunn has consistently demonstrated a commitment to teamwork and service across campus.

Winning with Teamwork Award

Jessica Williams, Department Assistant, Department of Political Science & Public Administration

Jessica Williams was honored for her willingness to step in wherever needed and her unwavering support for students and colleagues alike.

Whether assisting with MoneyHawks Camp, supporting Student Engagement operations, or helping with college events, Williams is known for her reliability, positivity, and dedication to helping others succeed.

Outstanding Service to Students Award

Judy Jahnke, Lead Academic Advisor

Judy Jahnke received recognition for her extraordinary commitment to student success.

Throughout her career, Jahnke has supported students from their first day on campus through graduation and beyond. Colleagues praised her deep knowledge of academic processes, her collaboration with faculty and staff, and her willingness to go the extra mile to help students navigate challenges along their educational journeys.

Her lasting impact is reflected in the many alumni who continue to return to campus to visit her.

Overall Meritorious Staff Awards

Michelle Garske, Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs

Michelle Garske was recognized as an exceptional collaborator and compassionate leader whose work positively impacts graduate education across the college.

Colleagues praised her leadership style, commitment to innovation, and dedication to empowering her team. In addition to overseeing graduate programs, Garske plays an important role in strategic planning and improving processes for graduate students throughout the college.

Kathy Lund, Director of Career & Professional Development

Kathy Lund was honored for her remarkable impact on students, programs, and the broader Nistler community.

From mentoring students to expanding services at the Pancratz Center and leading a nationally respected mentoring program, Lund’s contributions continue to elevate career and professional development opportunities for students.

Her colleagues described her as hardworking, visionary, and deeply committed to helping every Nistler stakeholder succeed.

Looking Ahead

As the ceremony concluded, Interim Dean O’Neill reflected on the tremendous work accomplished throughout the year and expressed appreciation for the dedication shown by faculty and staff across the college.

The 2026 Faculty & Staff Recognition Ceremony served as a powerful reminder that the success of the Nistler College community is built on the passion, leadership, and service of the people who make it thrive every day.