Selected from college-level honorees, this year鈥檚 winners represent the highest level of achievement across the university. Winners are recognized for excellence in the classroom, advancing knowledge in their fields, and making meaningful contributions to communities across Arkansas and beyond.

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock annually recognizes faculty who are making a difference through their work across these areas, with the Faculty Excellence Awards representing the highest honor the university bestows on its faculty. Each year, academic colleges and the William H. Bowen School of Law select top faculty members in each category.

鈥淥ur faculty continue to demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to teaching, research, and service that strengthens both our university and the communities we serve,鈥� said Provost Ann Bain. 鈥淭hese awards reflect the depth of talent and dedication across our institution.鈥�

Each university-level award recipient receives a $5,000 prize, made possible through private support.

The 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Board of Visitors selects the university-wide winners from the college-level winners in each category. 

鈥淚 want to thank the Board of Visitors again for their thoughtful continued commitment to recognizing faculty excellence,鈥� Bain said. 鈥淲e appreciate their dedication and the positive feedback they consistently share about the impact of our faculty.鈥�

Teaching Award

Sponsored by the Bailey Foundation

Dr. Jana McAuliffe, associate professor of philosophy in the School of Human Inquiry in the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching.

McAuliffe is recognized for her engaging, student-centered approach that encourages students to develop their own intellectual voice while exploring complex philosophical ideas. She teaches across the philosophy and interdisciplinary studies curriculum, including the University Core and the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program.

In the classroom, McAuliffe emphasizes critical discussion, collaborative exploration, and writing for diverse audiences. Her assignments challenge students to translate complex philosophical concepts into accessible formats, helping them communicate ideas beyond academic settings.

She is also deeply committed to mentoring undergraduate research, supporting independent student projects, helping students secure Signature Experience grants, and guiding them as they present their work at academic conferences. Her impact extends beyond campus through her work as co-director of the Arkansas High School Ethics Bowl and as project director of the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Ethics and Philosophy Summer Academy.

鈥淧hilosophy as a discipline is well-known for not offering one 鈥榬ight鈥� answer,鈥� McAuliffe said. 鈥淚 work hard to help my students feel comfortable enough with that to craft their right answer, and to share that with each other and with the broader world.鈥�

Research and Creative Works Award

Sponsored by Jafaar Golzar 

Dr. Nitin Agarwal, the Jerry L. Maulden-Entergy Endowed Chair and Donaghey Distinguished Professor of Information Science in the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Excellence Award in Research and Creative Works.

Agarwal is internationally recognized for his research in social computing, artificial intelligence, and cognitive security. Since joining 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2009, he has built an interdisciplinary research program that examines how information spreads across online networks and how digital influence campaigns shape public perception.

He founded the Collaboratorium for Social Media and Online Behavioral Studies (COSMOS), an interdisciplinary research center dedicated to understanding evolving social and cyber behaviors on modern information platforms.

鈥淯nderstanding how digital information ecosystems influence society is one of the defining challenges of our time,鈥� Agarwal said. 鈥淚鈥檓 fortunate to work alongside talented students and colleagues who are committed to advancing knowledge and developing solutions that strengthen communities and institutions.鈥�

Over the past five years, Agarwal has secured more than $60 million in federal funding, including grants from the National Science Foundation, DARPA, and the U.S. Department of Defense, with nearly $30 million directly supporting 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock research initiatives.

His collaborations span more than 200 researchers across 130 academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. His work includes 12 books and more than 400 articles in top-tier journals and conferences, earning 26 best paper awards.

Agarwal鈥檚 research has also produced widely used tools for analyzing digital information ecosystems, including systems designed to identify adversarial influence campaigns and online scams. These tools are used by organizations such as NATO, the U.S. Department of Defense, and the World Health Organization. He has also been nominated to serve on the Arkansas AI task force established by Governor Sarah Sanders.

Public Service Award

Sponsored by Alfred Williams in Honor of Elaine Eubank

Dr. April Chatham-Carpenter, professor and chairperson of the Department of Applied Communication in the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Excellence Award in Public Service.

Chatham-Carpenter is recognized for applying her expertise in communication to strengthen civic dialogue and democratic engagement at the local, state, and national levels. Her work includes co-hosting the public affairs podcast On the Other Hand, which features conversations with leaders and community members about issues shaping Arkansas and the nation.

She also serves in leadership roles with Braver Angels, a national grassroots organization focused on reducing political polarization. In that role, she facilitates workshops, contributes to statewide and national initiatives, and supports community leaders working to bridge political divides and foster more constructive dialogue.

Chatham-Carpenter brings that work back to campus and into the community through courses, trainings, and public programs that help students, faculty, and community partners navigate conflict and engage across differences. Her outreach includes workshops with organizations such as the City of Little Rock and the Arkansas Department of Transportation.

鈥淪ervice allows us to translate what we study in the classroom into real-world impact,鈥� Chatham-Carpenter said. 鈥淏y helping people develop the skills to engage across differences, we can contribute to healthier communities and stronger civic dialogue.鈥�

Social Justice Award

Sponsored by Scott and Amy Schuh, Katherine Shoulders and an Anonymous Donor聽

Professor Suzanne Penn, supervising attorney and assistant clinical professor of legal education at the William H. Bowen School of Law, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Excellence Award in Social Justice.

Penn is recognized for her decades of work expanding access to justice for underserved Arkansans through clinical legal education and community advocacy. She directs the Delta Divorce Clinic, which provides free legal assistance to individuals seeking divorces in counties across the Arkansas Delta where access to legal services is limited.

The clinic travels to rural communities to assist individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford legal representation or travel long distances to seek help. Through this work, Penn has helped expand access to critical legal services while addressing barriers faced by individuals in underserved regions.

At the same time, the clinic provides law students with hands-on experience working with real clients and navigating complex legal processes. The program has assisted hundreds of Arkansans facing challenging circumstances鈥攊ncluding individuals experiencing domestic violence or financial hardship鈥攚hile preparing students for client-centered legal practice.

鈥淎ccess to justice is a fundamental principle of our legal system,鈥� Penn said. 鈥淭he Delta Divorce Clinic provides meaningful opportunities for students to serve their communities while helping individuals navigate difficult legal situations.鈥�

Rising Faculty Award

Sponsored by Scott Bowen

Dr. Kent Kovacs, associate professor in the Department of Accounting, Economics, and Finance in the College of Business, Health, and Human Services, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Rising Faculty Award.

Kovacs is recognized for his strong early impact in research, teaching, and service since joining 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2024. His work focuses on environmental and resource economics, with particular emphasis on groundwater sustainability, agricultural resilience, and ecosystem services.

He has maintained an active research agenda, publishing in academic journals and securing external funding, including a National Science Foundation award as principal investigator and support from the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board. His research examines the economic incentives shaping producer and household decision-making, with issues directly relevant to Arkansas and the broader Mississippi Delta region.

In the classroom, Kovacs teaches courses including Macroeconomic Principles, Quantitative Business Analysis, and Environmental Economics, where he connects theory to real-world policy problems through active learning, data-driven exercises, and applied case studies. He has also supported student research and helped revive Environmental Economics as an upper-level elective.

鈥淓conomics offers powerful tools for understanding and addressing complex environmental and policy challenges,鈥� Kovacs said. 鈥淚鈥檓 grateful for the opportunity to bring that work into the classroom and to build research and teaching connections that strengthen 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 impact.鈥�

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Each academic college can select one faculty member for the honor. These recipients will be recognized during the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Faculty Excellence Awards on Thursday, April 2, when the university-level award recipient will be announced, which is sponsored by the Bailey Foundation. 

The 2026 recipients are Dr. Jana McAuliffe of the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education; Dr. Juliette Rivero of the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; Professor Lindsey Gustafson of the William H. Bowen School of Law; and Dr. Tara V. DeJohn of the College of Business, Health, and Human Services.

Jana McAuliffe

College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education

Dr. Jana McAuliffe, associate professor of philosophy in the School of Human Inquiry, is recognized for her engaging, student-centered approach to teaching that encourages students to develop their own intellectual voice while exploring complex philosophical ideas.

McAuliffe teaches courses across the philosophy and interdisciplinary studies curriculum, in the University Core, and the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program. In the classroom, McAuliffe emphasizes critical discussion, collaborative exploration, and writing for diverse audiences. Assignments often encourage students to translate complex philosophical concepts into accessible formats, helping them communicate ideas beyond academic settings.

McAuliffe is deeply committed to mentoring undergraduate research. She has supported numerous independent student research projects and helped students secure Signature Experience grants and present their work at academic conferences. She has also worked to  bring the benefits of ethical and philosophical education to high school aged Arkansans as Co-Director of the Arkansas High School Ethics Bowl and as Project Director of the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Ethics and Philosophy Summer Academy.

鈥淧hilosophy as a discipline is well-known for not offering one 鈥渞ight鈥� answer,鈥� McAuliffe said. 鈥淚 work hard to help my students feel comfortable enough with that to craft their right answer, and to share that with each other and with the broader world.鈥� 

Juliette Rivero

Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Dr. Juliette Rivero, instructor of chemistry and chemistry program coordinator at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, is recognized for her innovative, student-centered approach to teaching some of the most challenging courses in the chemistry curriculum. Since joining 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2021, Rivero has redesigned several courses, including General Chemistry I, Fundamentals of GOB, and Organic Chemistry, to incorporate active learning strategies such as clicker-based questioning, structured group problem-solving, and peer instruction, helping students move beyond memorization and develop a deeper conceptual understanding of chemistry.

A key component of Rivero鈥檚 teaching approach is the integration of undergraduate Learning Assistants into the classroom and supplemental workshops into her courses. She has mentored dozens of undergraduate Learning Assistants who support small-group learning and provide real-time guidance during lectures, helping create an inclusive and collaborative learning environment. Rivero has also led improvements in laboratory instruction by developing hands-on experiments that emphasize safety, green chemistry, and real-world applications.

Beyond the classroom, Rivero mentors teaching assistants and undergraduate researchers and serves as chemistry program coordinator, helping guide curriculum development and support student success across the chemistry program.

Lindsey Gustafson

William H. Bowen School of Law

Professor Lindsey Gustafson, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Nadine Baum Professor of Law at the William H. Bowen School of Law, has spent nearly three decades shaping the legal education experience for generations of students.

Her teaching focuses on helping students develop the analytical and professional skills necessary to succeed in the legal field. Gustafson鈥檚 courses combine foundational legal instruction with innovative teaching methods, including team-based learning that encourages students to collaborate, analyze legal problems, and apply their knowledge in practical settings. 

In addition to her classroom teaching, Gustafson plays a national leadership role in advancing legal education as a co-director of the Institute for Law Teaching and Learning and as a founding editor of the Journal of Law Teaching and Learning. Through this work, she mentors faculty across the country and promotes evidence-based approaches to teaching law. 

Tara V. DeJohn

College of Business, Health, and Human Services

Dr. Tara V. DeJohn, assistant  professor of social work, is recognized for her student-centered approach to teaching and her dedication to preparing future social workers to serve diverse communities.

Drawing on her professional experience in mental health and social services, DeJohn emphasizes experiential learning and reflective practice in the classroom. Her courses encourage students to explore complex social issues while developing the professional judgment and empathy required in the social work profession. 

As the MSW Program Coordinator, DeJohn also contributes to curriculum development and program assessment within the School of Social Work, helping ensure that courses remain aligned with professional standards and the evolving needs of the field.

鈥淓ducation can be transformative when students feel supported and challenged to grow,鈥� DeJohn said. 鈥淢y goal is to create a learning environment where students can develop the skills and confidence they need to serve others.鈥�

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Each academic college can select one faculty member for the honor. These recipients will be recognized during the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Faculty Excellence Awards on Thursday, April 2, when the university-level recipient will also be announced. The university-level award is sponsored by Scott Bowen

The 2026 recipients are Dr. Kent Kovacs of the College of Business, Health, and Human Services; Dr. Maureece Levin of the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education; Dr. Shweta Dabetwar of the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; and Professor Laura Bates of the William H. Bowen School of Law.

Kent Kovacs

College of Business, Health, and Human Services

Dr. Kent Kovacs, associate professor in the Department of Accounting, Economics, and Finance, is recognized for his strong early impact in research, teaching, and service since joining 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2024. His work focuses on environmental and resource economics, with particular emphasis on groundwater sustainability, agricultural resilience, and ecosystem services. 

Since arriving at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, Kovacs has maintained an active research agenda, publishing in journals. His recent work examines the economic incentives shaping producer and household decision-making, with issues directly relevant to Arkansas and the broader Mississippi Delta region. His research has also attracted external funding, including a National Science Foundation award as principal investigator and support from the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board. 

Kovacs also teaches courses including Macroeconomic Principles, Quantitative Business Analysis, and Environmental Economics, where he connects theory to real-world policy problems through active learning, data-driven exercises, and applied case studies. He has also contributed to student research and helped revive Environmental Economics as an upper-level elective. 

鈥淓conomics offers powerful tools for understanding and addressing complex environmental and policy challenges,鈥� Kovacs said. 鈥淚鈥檓 grateful for the opportunity to bring that work into the classroom and to build research and teaching connections that strengthen 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 impact.鈥�

Maureece Levin

College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education

Dr. Maureece Levin, assistant professor of anthropology in the School of Human Inquiry, is recognized for her integration of teaching, scholarship, and community engagement in archaeology and anthropology. Since joining 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2022, she has developed multiple projects that create meaningful educational opportunities for students while strengthening ties between the university and the broader community. 

One of Levin鈥檚 signature efforts is the Campus Garden Site Archaeological Project, which began as a hands-on learning opportunity for archaeology students and expanded through grant support from the Arkansas Humanities Council. The project funded paid student internships, engaged more than 30 community volunteers, and uncovered hundreds of historical artifacts, some of which are now displayed in Ottenheimer Library. 

Levin has also connected student learning to her fieldwork in Micronesia, where she developed an archaeological field school on the island of Pohnpei. In the classroom, she is known for discussion-based teaching, experiential learning, and mentoring students through independent studies, Donaghey Scholars projects, conference presentations, and Signature Experience Grants. Her scholarship since arriving at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock includes publications in archaeobotany, archaeology pedagogy, and interdisciplinary plant science. 

鈥淢y goal is to create experiential, place-based learning opportunities that connect rigorous scholarship with community engagement,鈥� Levin said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 incredibly rewarding to help students develop practical skills while conducting meaningful research and public outreach.鈥�

Shweta Dabetwar

Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Dr. Shweta Dabetwar, assistant professor of mechanical engineering in the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology, is recognized for her rapid impact in teaching, research, and professional leadership since joining 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2023. Her work reflects a student-centered approach to engineering education, a growing interdisciplinary research program, and strong service within the university and her profession. 

In teaching, Dabetwar has adopted active learning strategies and has become the first faculty member at her school to implement the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Learning Assistant Program. In research, she founded the Material Intelligence and Prognostics Lab, where she mentors undergraduate and graduate students working on AI-enabled diagnostics and prognostics of engineering and biomedical systems. Her students have presented at international conferences, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers鈥� International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, where her mentees earned best research poster awards in two consecutive years. 

Dabetwar鈥檚 research also includes competitive grant activity, journal publications, and interdisciplinary collaborations spanning engineering, energy systems, and biomedical imaging. She has served on various grant proposal review panels and as a reviewer for more than 10 high-impact journals. Her professional leadership includes service as an associate editor for the ASCE-ASME Journal of Risk and Uncertainty in Engineering Systems, Part B: Mechanical Engineering, and leadership roles within ASME. She was appointed as the 4th vice chair for the Safety Engineering and Risk Analysis Division of ASME in August 2025.

鈥淢entoring students as they grow in both technical skill and research confidence is one of the most meaningful parts of my work,鈥� Dabetwar said. 鈥淚鈥檓 proud to help create learning and research opportunities that reduce the gap between academia and the real/professional world to  prepare them for future success.鈥�

Laura Bates

William H. Bowen School of Law

Professor Laura Bates, assistant professor of law at the William H. Bowen School of Law, is recognized for her contributions to legal education, scholarship, and service during her early years on the faculty. Her work centers on teaching and mentoring students, contributing to legal scholarship, and serving both the law school and the broader community. 

Bates teaches Research, Writing, & Analysis and Law & Literature, with an emphasis on connecting classroom instruction to the work students will do as future attorneys. She prioritizes practical assignments, one-on-one mentoring, and helping students develop strong legal writing, critical thinking, and professional communication skills.

Bates鈥檚 scholarship focuses on parental leave laws. In addition, Bates has presented at conferences on legal writing, legal storytelling, and artificial intelligence, served on multiple law school committees, advised student law review notes, and served as faculty advisor to the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Law Review. She is also active in the community through her leadership with the American Red Cross serving Greater Arkansas. 

鈥淭eaching and mentoring students is the most rewarding part of my work,鈥� Bates said. 鈥淚鈥檓 grateful for the opportunity to help students build the skills, confidence, and judgment they need to successfully enter the legal profession, as well as to challenge them to think critically about the law and engage in thoughtful discussions of what the law should be.鈥�

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Each academic college can select one faculty member for the honor. The college recipients will be recognized during the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Faculty Excellence Awards on Thursday, April 2, when the university-wide recipient will also be announced, which is sponsored by Jaafer Golzar. 

The 2026 recipients are Dr. Nitin Agarwal of the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; Dr. Michael Underwood of the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education; and Joshua M. Silverstein of the William H. Bowen School of Law.

Dr. Nitin Agarwal

Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Dr. Nitin Agarwal, the Jerry L. Maulden-Entergy Endowed Chair and Donaghey Distinguished Professor of Information Science, is internationally recognized for his research in social computing, artificial intelligence, and cognitive security.

Since joining 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2009, Agarwal has built an interdisciplinary research program that examines how information spreads across online networks and how digital influence campaigns shape public perception. He founded the Collaboratorium for Social Media and Online Behavioral Studies (COSMOS), an interdisciplinary research center dedicated to understanding evolving social and cyber behaviors on modern information platforms. 

鈥淯nderstanding how digital information ecosystems influence society is one of the defining challenges of our time,鈥� Agarwal said. 鈥淚鈥檓 fortunate to work alongside talented students and colleagues who are committed to advancing knowledge and developing solutions that strengthen communities and institutions.鈥�

Over the past five years, Agarwal has secured more than $60 million in federal funding, including grants from the National Science Foundation, DARPA, and the U.S. Department of War (Army, Navy, Air Force), with nearly $30 million directly supporting 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock research initiatives. 

His collaborations span more than 200 researchers across 130 academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. His research is published widely including 12 books and over 400 articles in top-tier international journals and conferences that have been recognized with 26 best paper awards to date.  

His research has also produced widely used tools for analyzing digital information ecosystems, including systems designed to identify adversarial information/influence campaigns and online scams. These tools are recognized globally as top tools and used by organizations such as NATO, the U.S. Department of War, and the World Health Organization. Recognizing the profound contributions of his AI research to the society, he is nominated to serve on the Arkansas AI task force established by Governor Sarah Sanders. 

Dr. Michael Underwood

College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education

Dr. Michael Underwood, instructor of music in the School of Literary and Performing Arts, has dedicated decades of research and creative work to rediscovering the music of Ann Giffels, a composer whose works had largely disappeared from the historical record.

Through extensive archival research, musical transcription, and performance collaborations, Underwood has brought numerous compositions by Giffels back into public awareness. His work has resulted in new performances, recordings, and scholarly attention to the composer鈥檚 contributions to 20th-century music. 

鈥淩esearch often reveals stories and voices that might otherwise remain hidden,鈥� Underwood said. 鈥淚ntroducing Ann Giffels鈥檚 music into the repertoire has been an incredibly fulfilling journey. It鈥檚 rewarding to see students and musicians share her work with new audiences.鈥�

Among his most significant achievements is the recovery and recording of 鈥淭he Invisible Choir,鈥� a large-scale orchestral and choral work composed during Giffels鈥檚 graduate studies at Indiana University. Underwood transcribed the long-unheard score and collaborated with 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock musicians, community performers, and local Arkansas symphony musicians to bring the piece back to life more than 70 years after it was written. 

His work has uncovered nearly a dozen previously unknown compositions and helped reintroduce Giffels鈥檚 music to performers and scholars, expanding the repertoire and highlighting the contributions of a largely overlooked composer. 

Joshua M. Silverstein

William H. Bowen School of Law

Joshua M. Silverstein, professor of law at the William H. Bowen School of Law, is recognized for his extensive scholarship in business  law, and legal education theory.

Silverstein has produced a substantial body of scholarship addressing complex issues in commercial law. His law review articles, many exceeding 80 pages, offer comprehensive examinations of topics such as contract interpretation, empirical legal methods, and bankruptcy law. 

鈥淟egal scholarship plays an important role in clarifying complex issues and strengthening the institutions that shape our justice system,鈥� Silverstein said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an honor to contribute to these conversations and to be part of a community that values thoughtful inquiry.鈥�

His research has influenced legal debate in courts and academic literature. One of his bankruptcy articles was cited in briefs submitted to the U.S. Supreme Court in the 2024 Purdue Pharma case and then was cited by four Justices of the Court itself in the opinion resolving the matter.

In addition to his articles, Silverstein recently became a co-author of 鈥淧roblems in Contract Law: Cases and Materials,鈥� the most widely used casebook in contracts law education.

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The Faculty Excellence Awards, established in 1989, have honored outstanding faculty for 35 years. The 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Board of Visitors selected the university-wide winners from a pool of 18 faculty members representing their respective colleges and the William H. Bowen School of Law. Each university-level award recipient will receive a $5,000 prize. 

The Board of Visitors plays a key role in advising the chancellor and the Board of Trustees of the University of Arkansas System. They are community leaders, alumni, donors, and friends who are experts in their field and volunteer their service to give back to provide valuable insights into the university.

Mirivel, professor of applied communication, received the Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching, sponsored by the Bailey Endowment. The teaching award, first established and funded by Dr. Ted and Virginia Bailey, is now funded by the Bailey Endowment through the Arkansas Community Foundation, who continues to honor this legacy through a Centennial Campaign commitment toward supporting teaching excellence.

Ruhr, associate professor of social work and a licensed certified social worker in Arkansas, received the Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service, sponsored by Alfred Williams, co-chair of the Centennial Campaign, in honor of his wife Elaine Eubank. The couple are both proud alumni of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. Eubank has spent her career dedicated to public service, spending nearly four decades working in the public sector and leading the state鈥檚 top nonprofit organizations.

Beiner, professor of constitutional law, was awarded the Faculty Excellence Award in Research and Creative Endeavors, sponsored by Renee Golzar and Dr. Jaafer Golzar. Dr. Golzar is a physician practicing in Chicago, a Donaghey Scholar alumni, and was the 2022 Distinguished Alumni honoree of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

Leyenberger, instructor of social work, was honored with the Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice, sponsored by alumnus and former Alumni Association President Scott Schuh.

Cook, assistant professor of law, was named the winner of the Rising Faculty Excellence Award, sponsored by Dr. Scott Bowen. Dr. Bowen has a strong connection to the university, as the William H. Bowen School of Law bears his father鈥檚 name. In his own right, Dr. Bowen is a well-respected orthopedic surgeon practicing in Little Rock.

鈥淥ur recipients鈥� unwavering commitment to scholarship, teaching, research, public service, and social justice has significantly enriched both our institution and the wider academic community,鈥� said Provost Ann Bain. 鈥淥n behalf of the university, I extend heartfelt congratulations to each award recipient and express gratitude for their dedication to excellence.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching

A faculty member at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock for 19 years, Mirivel teaches courses such as “Introduction to Communication,” “Communication and Community,” and “Interpersonal Communication.”

鈥淒r. Mirivel鈥檚 teaching is centered on creating transformative experiences for students, both in face-to-face and online classes, empowering them to not only acquire knowledge but also develop the skills and values necessary for personal and professional growth,鈥� his nomination letter states.

Mirivel鈥檚 research on positive communication led to the creation of the widely recognized Positive Communication Model and the Positive Communication Network, which serve as foundational elements of many of his courses. This model blends relationship-building with research to foster meaningful interactions.

鈥淚 feel very excited and humbled. Mostly, I鈥檓 thinking about my colleagues and my department, who make great teaching possible,鈥� Mirivel said. 鈥淚 truly believe the secret to my success in teaching is my colleagues. I came here 20 years ago, and they are all amazing teachers. Any one of them could have won this award. They supported me this year, and I鈥檓 deeply grateful. We have a wonderful environment that encourages growth, creativity, and a shared commitment to caring about students and teaching.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Research

Beiner has been a faculty member at the William H. Bowen School of Law for 30 years, serving as dean from 2018 to 2023. Her research focuses on employment discrimination law, judicial diversity, and civil procedure, earning national and international recognition. Her work has been cited more than 4,790 times on Google Scholar and has been featured in prestigious legal publications.

Beiner鈥檚 upcoming publications include a law review article on the impact of diversity on the bench for employment discrimination cases, the third edition of her co-authored Civil Procedure casebook, and a chapter on sexual harassment in the Oxford Handbook of Feminism and Law in the United States. Additionally, she has signed a contract with Harvard University Press to co-author, 鈥淲hat the Best Legal Mentors Do.鈥�

“I am honored that the university has recognized my scholarship with this award,” Beiner said. “For the past 30 years, my research has focused on issues that shape our legal system, from employment discrimination law to judicial diversity. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and students, whose insights and collaboration have enriched my work. This recognition reaffirms my commitment to advancing legal scholarship and contributing to meaningful discussions in the field.”

Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service

Ruhr has volunteered more than 400 hours at 糖心Vlog传媒MS鈥� 12th Street Health and Wellness Center, providing free social work services and mentoring students as a preceptor. Since her election to the Dunbar Garden Board of Directors in February 2020, she has successfully secured more than $32,000 in funding through five grant proposals. In December 2024, she was elected to the Executive Committee of Dunbar Garden and is currently serving a two-year term as secretary.

On campus, she has served as the faculty advisor for Phi Alpha Honor Society since 2018. She has also been a faculty senator and Title IX investigator since 2019. In September 2024, she was elected as the Faculty Senate representative to the Faculty Governance Committee.

Nationally, Ruhr is a scientific reviewer for several journals, including BMC Health Services Research and SAGE Open Medicine. She also regularly reviews abstracts for the Society for Social Work and Research鈥檚 annual conference.

鈥淚 feel very honored to receive this award and very surprised,鈥� Ruhr said. There are so many great candidates for this award. I’m happy to have won it and very appreciative for the experience.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice

Leyenberger joined 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2020 after serving as executive director of a prison outreach organization, where she worked with incarcerated individuals serving long sentences. As chair of the Societal and Organizational Impact Concentration in the School of Social Work, she bridges academia and community engagement, connecting students with real-world projects that make a difference.

Leyenberger co-founded DecARcerate in 2015. She continues to advocate for prison reform, food security initiatives, and sustainable housing solutions. Her long-term goals include launching an Inside-Out prison course for social work students and advancing legislative efforts to eliminate unpaid prison labor.

In addition to her academic and advocacy work, Leyenberger serves as faculty sponsor of Phi Alpha Social Work Honors Society and is a community advisor for 糖心Vlog传媒MS Women鈥檚 Justice-Involved Health Alliance Research. She has been recognized for her leadership with a 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Sustainability Grant and remains committed to fostering student involvement in social justice initiatives.

鈥淚 feel really honored and surprised to receive this award, especially after hearing about the other nominees and their incredible accomplishments,鈥� Leyenberger said. 鈥淭his is really inspiring to me, to see how much good work is happening at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock and in the community at large towards social justice and equity.鈥�

Rising Faculty Excellence Award

Recognized for his exemplary teaching, leadership, and scholarly contributions, Cook has made a significant impact on students and colleagues alike. Regarded as a promising scholar and talented educator, Cook鈥檚 students describe him as a dedicated and deeply caring professor who fosters an engaging learning environment where questions and mistakes are embraced as part of the learning process. His ability to integrate active learning into research and writing courses has been praised as both practical and effective.

Cook has taken on leadership roles within the law school, including service as director of the Rural Practice Incubator Project and serving as an affiliated faculty member with the Center for Racial Justice and Criminal Justice Reform. His contributions to legal scholarship focus on questions of national security and legal writing.

鈥淚 am beyond honored and humbled to receive this award,鈥� Cook said. 鈥淭his was a true surprise, and I am incredibly grateful. My deepest thanks to the university, the Board of Visitors, the committee, and all of our donors for this tremendous honor. I am absolutely thrilled.鈥�

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Professors Rebecca Glazier, Emily Hood, John Kirk, Jana McAuliffe, and Julien Mirivel were named winners by the college鈥檚 Faculty Excellence Awards Selection Committee. 

The college recipients will be recognized at the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Faculty Excellence Awards on Thursday, April 3, and the university-level recipients will be announced.

Rising Faculty Award for Excellence 

Dr. Emily Hood received the college鈥檚 Rising Faculty Award for Excellence. An assistant professor of art education, Hood joined the School of Art and Design in the fall of 2021.

This award is given to faculty members in their first five years at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock who display exceptional promise in teaching, research or creative endeavors, or public service. For Hood, her work intersects across all three. 

Among updating the Art Education curriculum to better serve future contemporary art educators, Hood has also shifted the program to a cohort model to promote a sense of community among the students. 

鈥淒r. Hood, as a role model, demonstrates effective teaching strategies and also creates a professional environment that is always inclusive, productive, and encouraging,鈥� a former student writes. 鈥淚 am also grateful that I have the ability to reach out and ask for help from my professor even after I have graduated.鈥�

In addition to her teaching, Hood鈥檚 research involves young disabled artists and documenting their relationships to art materials in an art studio setting. This research led to the creation of a course that involves a field placement for students at Easterseals Academy.

鈥淗er innovative teaching, both in and out of the classroom, her student mentorship, and her commitment to building strong relationships with students, campus resources, and broader community members makes her an excellent candidate for this award,鈥� her nomination letter states.

Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service

Dr. Rebecca Glazier received the college-level Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service. A political science professor in the School of Public Affairs, Glazier has been at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock for 15 years.

The recipient of this award applies their skills to their disciplines in service to the community, state, or nation in areas of public interest. In 2012, Glazier started a research program focusing on the intersection of faith and community called the Little Rock Congregations Study.

鈥淗er careful attention to the needs and interests of the populations she studies, her production of numerous resources and events to benefit those partners, and the subsequent positive impact on the Little Rock community make her an ideal candidate to receive this award,鈥� one peer wrote.

Glazier utilizes her research expertise in religion and community engagement to advance knowledge in areas of public interest and offer students hands-on experiences.

The data from her studies have been released to the public and her work has been recognized through a national award for Civic and Community Engagement from the American Political Science Association. 

鈥淒r. Glazier goes above and beyond to provide mentorship, guidance, and support, whether by assisting students with research, offering career advice, or dedicating her time to community initiatives,鈥� a former student wrote.

Faculty Excellence Award for Research and Creative Endeavors 

Dr. John Kirk is the recipient of CHASSE鈥橲 Faculty Excellence Award for Research and Creative Endeavors. As a George W. Donaghey Distinguished Professor of History, Kirk has taught at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock for 14 years.

The Faculty Excellence Award for Research and Creative Endeavors is given to those who have contributed to the expansion of knowledge and the quality of life in a particular area. During the past five years, Kirk published his ninth and 10th books. 

His most recent book, 鈥淲inthrop Rockefeller: From New Yorker to Arkansawyer, 1912-1956鈥� won the 2024 Booker Worthen Literary Prize from the Central Arkansas Library System for best work of fiction or nonfiction by an author living in Arkansas and the 2024 John G. Ragsdale Book Award from the Arkansas Historical Association for the best book published in Arkansas History.

鈥淭o provide a new generation of students and scholars with such diverse and important voices on a topic that continues to evolve in the twenty-first century is testament to John鈥檚 ability to promote knowledge exchange and research,鈥� a lecturer in U.S. History at University College London wrote.

Along with his published books, Kirk also regularly contributes to a number of newspaper articles, magazine articles, radio programs, and podcasts. Not only does he produce this work himself, but he also invites his public history students to contribute alongside him to further their academic careers.

鈥淚n addition to being one of the nation鈥檚 foremost historians and researchers, Dr. Kirk has served as an ambassador for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock with his many radio, television, and speaking appearances,鈥� one letter of endorsement states. 鈥淗e has been a guest on my podcast and never fails to [make] the university proud.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice

Dr. Jana McAuliffe was named the college鈥檚 recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice. An associate professor of philosophy in the School of Human Inquiry, McAuliffe has taught at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock for nearly a decade.

This award is given to a 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock faculty member, regardless of years served, whose advocacy spans across teaching, service, and research. 

McAuliffe describes her research process as 鈥渇irst [explaining] the meaning of challenging, complex ideas from the philosophical tradition and then [putting] these ideas to work to help address the problems of the present.鈥�

Over the past five years, she has taught courses such as 鈥淭he Philosophical Life,鈥� 鈥淓thics and Society,鈥� 鈥淧hilosophy of Law,鈥� 鈥淩easonings Across Disciplines,鈥� and many others.

鈥淗er reading lists demonstrate deliberate and concerted effort to represent a variety of perspectives and background, and her syllabi include a wealth of helpful information aimed at ensuring that all of her students have the resources they need for educational success,鈥� her nomination letter states.

In addition to her teaching and research, McAuliffe contributes to public service as the director of the Ethics and Philosophy Summer Academy and as the faculty mentor for student groups that prioritize supporting and strengthening community. 

鈥淪he not only provides an astute analysis of economic, political, and social problems as part of her research agenda, Dr. McAuliffe consistently and ably carves out spaces to increase opportunities for those in need and to inspire others to consider their own responsibilities in the creation of a more just world,鈥� one of her peers said.

Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching

Dr. Julien Mirivel received the college鈥檚 Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching. A professor in the Department of Applied Communication, Mirivel has been at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock for 19 years.

In the past five years, he鈥檚 taught courses in the department such as 鈥淚ntroduction to Communication,鈥� 鈥淐ommunication and Community,鈥� 鈥淚nterpersonal Communication,鈥� among many others.

The Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching is given to exemplars of the teacher/mentor model who maintain high expectations of their students. 

鈥淭oday, Dr. Mirivel鈥檚 teaching is centered on creating transformative experiences for students, in both his face-to-face and online classes, empowering them not only to acquire knowledge but also to develop the skills and values necessary for personal and professional growth,鈥� his nomination letter states.

Mirivel鈥檚 research on positive communication led to the creation of the widely recognized Positive Communication model and the Positive Communication Network, which he utilizes as the foundation for many of his courses. The model blends the creation of thoughtful relationships with conducting research.

鈥淗is ability to blend intellectual rigor with genuine human connection fosters an environment where students feel challenged, supported, and inspired,鈥� a former student said.

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Dean Colin Crawford celebrated the selection of these members of 鈥淏owen鈥檚 talented faculty,鈥� adding that 鈥渢he Bowen School of Law boasts an exceptionally gifted group of teachers,  scholars, and public servants.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Research

Theresa M. Beiner, professor in constitutional law, has been selected as the winner of the Faculty Excellence Award in Research.

Beiner has been a professor at Bowen for 30 years and served as dean of the School of Law from 2018-2023. Her work explores the legal understanding of employment discrimination law, judicial diversity, and civil procedure and has earned local, national, and international recognition. With more than 4,790 citations on Google Scholar, her research has been featured in many prestigious legal publications.

Beiner鈥檚 upcoming publications include a law review article on the impact of diversity on the bench for employment discrimination cases, the third edition of her co-authored Civil Procedure casebook, and a chapter on sexual harassment in the Oxford Handbook of Feminism and Law in the United States. Additionally, she has signed a contract with Harvard University Press to co-author, 鈥淲hat the Best Legal Mentors Do.鈥�

Regarding this award, Beiner said, “I am honored that my colleagues would recognize my contribution to scholarship in my fields of interest.”

Beiner earned a J.D. from Northwestern University and a B.A. from the University of Virginia.

Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching

Beth Levi, instructor of clinical education and supervising attorney for the Family Law Clinic, has been selected as the winner of the Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching.

A dedicated educator and mentor, Levi has been described as the 鈥淪wiss Army knife鈥� of teaching at Bowen, demonstrating an exceptional ability to support and develop her students through individualized attention, the application of rigorous academic standards, and an unwavering commitment to student success.

鈥淚鈥檓 honored by the kind words of my colleagues and students,鈥� said Levi. 鈥淚t is my privilege to help train the next generation of Arkansas lawyers!鈥�

Levi has been an integral part of the Bowen faculty since 2002. In addition to her long-time service as director of the Family Law Clinic, she has taught Research, Writing, and Analysis (RWA), Civil Procedure, and Professional Responsibility. Colleagues and students praise her for fostering an environment of academic excellence, with one student calling her 鈥渢he best RWA professor鈥� at the law school and another crediting her mentorship with helping overcome imposter syndrome. Levi鈥檚 intellectually demanding yet supportive approach has had a profound impact, both in the classroom and beyond.

Levi earned a J.D. from Harvard Law and an A.B. from Princeton University.

Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service

Robert Steinbuch, the Arkansas Bar Professor of Law, has been selected as the winner of the Faculty Excellence Award in Public Service.

A recognized expert in government transparency law, Steinbuch鈥檚 advocacy and legal scholarship have made a profound impact on several areas of law, including transparency and freedom of information, self-defense rights, and equal treatment under the law.

鈥淚’m so thankful to be recognized for the litigative and legislative efforts that I’ve undertaken to protect freedom in Arkansas,鈥� Steinbuch said. 鈥淏e it government transparency, the right to defend oneself, or equal treatment for all, I’ve worked to improve the lives of everyday Arkansans through my intersecting roles of law professor, attorney, and journalist. While receiving the award is quite humbling, the true reward is being afforded the opportunity to contribute to bettering our world.鈥�

A leading authority on the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) law, Steinbuch is frequently sought by both local and national news outlets to help inform the public about their rights. Colleagues and legal professionals describe him as a 鈥渙ne-man FOIA-defending machine鈥� whose legislative advocacy, legal scholarship, and extensive pro bono work have had a lasting impact on Arkansans.

Steinbuch earned a J.D. from Columbia University and his B.A. and M.A. from the University of Pennsylvania.

Faculty Excellence Award for Rising Faculty

John Cook, assistant professor of law, has been selected as the winner of the Faculty Excellence Award for Rising Faculty.

Recognized for his exemplary teaching, leadership, and scholarly contributions, Cook has made a significant impact on students and colleagues alike. Regarded as a promising scholar and talented educator, Cook鈥檚 students describe him as a dedicated and deeply caring professor who fosters an engaging learning environment where questions and mistakes are embraced as part of the learning process. His ability to integrate active learning into research and writing courses has been praised as both practical and effective.

“I am truly honored to have received the Rising Faculty Excellence Award,鈥� Cook said. 鈥淏owen is an amazing place with absolutely wonderful students and faculty. I am extremely grateful to the Bowen community for showing such confidence in me at this early stage of my career by way of this award.”

Cook has taken on leadership roles within the law school, including service as director of the Rural Practice Incubator Project and serving as an affiliated faculty member with the Center for Racial Justice and Criminal Justice Reform. His contributions to legal scholarship focus on questions of聽national security and legal writing.

Cook earned a J.D. from Duke University School of Law, an M.Sc. from Oxford University, and a B.A. from Yale University.

Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice

Alicia Mitchell, assistant professor of legal education and director of the Low Income Taxpayer Clinic, has been selected as the winner of the Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice.

A dedicated advocate for economic justice, Mitchell has spent more than two decades at the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law working to support low-income taxpayers in Arkansas through legal representation, education, and advocacy. Throughout her career, Mitchell has mentored and trained future attorneys while ensuring that underrepresented communities receive high-quality legal assistance.

鈥淚 am very humbled by the recognition of this award,鈥� Mitchell said. 鈥淚t is an honor to be a part of an institution that prioritizes social justice.鈥�

Under her leadership, the Low Income Taxpayer Clinic has provided critical legal services, helping hundreds of Arkansans navigate tax-related challenges. Her advocacy has resulted in a reduction of more than $730,000 in tax liabilities for low-income families and brought numerous taxpayers into compliance with state and federal regulations. Mitchell has also secured more than $2 million in grant funding to maintain and sustain the clinic. Colleagues and students describe her as an 鈥渆xemplar for the values of access to justice, professionalism, and excellence in legal skills.鈥�

Mitchell earned a J.D., MBA, and BBA from the University of Mississippi.

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鈥淭he exceptional dedication, innovation, and passion demonstrated by this year鈥檚 Faculty Excellence Award winners truly exemplify the spirit of our college,鈥� said Dr. Jeff Connelly, interim dean of the Donaghey College of STEM. 鈥淭hese winners have each made remarkable contributions to teaching, research, and service, enriching the lives of our students and strengthening our impact on the community and beyond. We are incredibly proud to celebrate their achievements and the inspiration they bring to our campus.鈥�

The college recipients will be recognized at the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Faculty Excellence Awards on Thursday, April 3. The university-level Faculty Excellence winners will be announced at the ceremony that begins at 6 p.m. in the Schueck, McCarty, Lexicon Inc. Auditorium in the Engineering and Information Technology Building.

Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching

Dr. Joshua Spinler, advanced instructor and lab coordinator for the Geology program, has received the Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching, which is given to exemplars of the teacher/mentor model who maintain high expectations of their students.

鈥淒r. Spinler鈥檚 extensive contributions to teaching, his unwavering commitment to student success, and his continuous professional development make him a truly deserving candidate for the Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award,鈥� Dr. Tansel Karabacak, director of the School of Physical Sciences, wrote in a recommendation letter. 鈥淣otably, he developed and redesigned several courses, including Geology of the National Parks, Earth Science in the Movies, and Geophysics, filling important gaps in the Geology curriculum and providing upper-level students with more opportunities to engage in critical thinking, both in the classroom and in the field.鈥�

With a background in geophysics and tectonics, Spinler encourages his geology students to think about the “big picture” to better understand the processes that shape the world. He emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on activities, real-world case studies, and field trips to local, regional, and national sites.

Spinler directs the Field Geology II capstone course, a three-week intensive field mapping experience in the southern Rocky Mountains of Colorado and Wyoming. He has also played a key role in shaping field experiences for geology students by redesigning the Field Geology I course and co-developing Geology of the National Parks, a field-based course featuring week-long trips during spring break to destinations like the Grand Canyon, Saguaro National Parks, Big Bend, and Carlsbad Caverns National Parks.

In his 10 years at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, Spinler has taught 12 distinct courses across multiple formats, from introductory geology lectures and labs to upper-level and graduate courses in structural geology and geophysics. He has developed three new courses and collaborated with faculty to establish a Certificate of Proficiency in Earth Science.

鈥淚 am humbled that my peers have both nominated me for and selected me to receive this prestigious award from our college,鈥� Spinler said. 鈥淚 strive every day to have my students further develop their 鈥榮ense of place鈥� in that after they leave my classes, they have a more complete understanding of the world around them, what processes go into shaping that world, and how that world changes over time, from both natural and human-driven changes. If we better understand the world around us, we can be more successful stewards of the one and only planet we call home.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Research and Creative Endeavors 

Dr. Nawab Ali, professor of biology and graduate coordinator, is the recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award for Research and Creative Endeavors. He is a 25-year-veteran of the university, specializing in biochemistry, signal transduction, and cancer research. The Faculty Excellence Award for Research and Creative Endeavors is given to those who have contributed to the expansion of knowledge and the quality of life in a particular field.

With postdoctoral training from premier institutions such as the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and Yale University, his research explores how inositol polyphosphates regulate cellular processes like apoptosis, with implications for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. His work has earned international recognition, with publications in high-impact journals and citations in top-tier scientific literature.

Ali is a pioneer in the study of G-proteins, G-protein-coupled receptors, and their role in intracellular signaling. His groundbreaking discovery that the enzyme MinPP1 functions within the endoplasmic reticulum and contributes to cancer progression has reshaped the understanding of this enzyme鈥檚 role in disease. Expanding on this research, he is currently developing nanotechnology-based therapeutic approaches for breast and pancreatic cancer.

Throughout his career, Ali has secured more than $1.9 million in research funding, including grants from NSF, NASA, and AR-INBRE. He has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters, with over 2,600 citations. His contributions to biomedical research and nanotechnology continue to advance scientific understanding and bring prestige to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

鈥淚t is a wonderful feeling to have received 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 most prestigious Excellence in Research Award,鈥� Ali said. 鈥淭his research award is a token of recognition for the endeavors that my team and I have put in over the years in the area of my research, cancer biology. I have always enjoyed working with undergraduate and graduate students, and collaborators who have significantly contributed to this success. I am thankful to all my collaborators, especially Dr. Noureen Siraj who nominated me for this award. The award will go a long way to encourage us to continue exploring and testing new ideas and make discoveries that will enhance our scientific knowledge on cancer prevention and treatment.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service

Dr. Greg Guisbiers, associate professor of physics and astronomy, has been selected as the winner of the Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service. The recipient of this award applies their skills to their disciplines in service to the community, state, or nation in areas of public interest.

During the summer 2023 to spring 2024, he prepared the campus to host an event to celebrate the Great North American Eclipse. Guisbiers helped to secure a grant from the Arkansas Space Grant Consortium to purchase more than 50 telescopes for the event, as well as brought two light sound devices from Harvard University to help the blind and visually impaired experience the solar eclipse in a unique way.

On April 8, 2024, more than 4,000 people converged at the Jack Stephens Center to watch the eclipse and participate in a wide range of family friendly, educational activities. Guisbiers gave multiple interviews to TV, radio, and print journalists, helping showcase the university鈥檚 scientific expertise to the community.

鈥淗is leadership and collaboration in planning the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Solar Eclipse Event exemplify the spirit of public service that strengthens and supports the broader university community,鈥� said Dr. Carrie Phillips, chief communications and marketing officer. 鈥淒r. Guisbiers went above and beyond to support the event鈥檚 success and elevate 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 public profile. He willingly stepped into new roles, conducting TV and radio interviews, filming social media videos, presenting to community groups, and even speaking at local churches鈥攁ll to ensure the event reached diverse audiences.鈥�

Following up on the momentum and excitement created by the Great North American Eclipse, Guisbiers has worked to revive the long-closed campus observatory. He worked with a team of physics students and Facilities Management to clean out, renovate, and install a new telescope in the observatory. Thanks to the financial support from the Provost鈥檚 Office, this project was finally achieved during the fall 2024 semester.

鈥淩eceiving this award is a wonderful recognition of all the efforts I invested into organizing the Great North American Eclipse observation on campus as well as in getting the observatory operational again,鈥� Guisbiers said. 鈥淚 feel that I have served our community very well, and this feeling makes me very proud!

Faculty Excellence Award for Rising Faculty

Dr. Brian Walker, an assistant professor of chemistry, has received the Faculty Excellence Award for Rising Faculty, which is given to faculty members in their first five years at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock who display exceptional promise in teaching, research or creative endeavors, or public service.

鈥淒r. Walker exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher, educator, and leader,鈥� Dr. Noureen Siraj, associate professor of chemistry, wrote in a recommendation letter. 鈥淗is accomplishments in advancing synthetic organic chemistry, mentoring diverse students, delivering exceptional teaching, and serving the academic community make him a highly deserving candidate for the Rising Faculty Award.鈥�

Walker has built a strong record of research in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry, securing more than $240,000 in funded projects. Committed to teaching and mentoring students, he received the 2023 Research Mentor Award from the Arkansas Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation and was named the 2021 Professor of the Year by the American Chemical Society (ACS) Central Arkansas Local Section.

Beyond research, Walker is actively engaged in professional and community service. Currently serving as the 2025 Chair of the Central Arkansas Section of the American Chemical Society, he also holds editorial responsibilities for chemistry journals, serves as a science fair judge, and leads chemistry outreach initiatives. Within the university, Walker contributes to various committees, including student recruitment and curriculum development, while also leading instrumentation improvements for the chemistry program and the School of Physical Sciences.

鈥淚 was thankful to be nominated for the faculty award,鈥� Walker said. 鈥淲inning it is an honor and reaffirms my commitment to education, leadership, and community engagement, all which continue to shape my role as an educator and researcher.鈥�

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The college recipients will be recognized at the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Faculty Excellence Awards on Thursday, April 3. The university-level Faculty Excellence winners will be announced at the ceremony that begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Schueck, McCarty, Lexicon Inc. Auditorium in the Engineering and Information Technology Building.

Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching

Dr. Amar Kanekar, professor and graduate coordinator of the Health Education and Health Promotion program, has received the Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching. Kanekar is a 13-year veteran of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock and serves as 鈥渁 powerful reminder of the lasting influence of his teaching.鈥�

鈥淪tudents write passionately about how he has inspired them to pursue their academic and professional goals, while colleagues acknowledge Dr. Kanekar鈥檚 unwavering dedication to the academic mission and mentorship of others in the department,鈥� The CBHHS Awards Committee wrote of Kanekar. 鈥淎mar Kanekar is the embodiment of what the Award for Excellence in Teaching represents. He not only demonstrates expertise and excellence in the discipline but also fosters an inclusive, challenging, and supportive environment where students thrive.鈥�

The Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching is given to exemplars of the teacher/mentor model who maintain high expectations of their students. His 18 years of teaching experience involves more than 30 courses in the areas of public health, health education, and health promotion in face-to-face, hybrid, and online asynchronous formats. He has published more than 90 publications, and his research areas of interest focus on adolescent health, measurement in health education, global health, online and hybrid pedagogy, and health behavior interventions.

鈥淚 am thrilled to be selected for the Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching for my college and thank all those who provided letters in support of my application, from the bottom of my heart,鈥� Kanekar said.

Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service

Dr. Lindsay Ruhr, associate professor of social work and a licensed certified social worker in Arkansas, has been selected as the winner of the Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service. The recipient of this award applies their skills to their disciplines in service to the community, state, or nation in areas of public interest.

In the local community, Ruhr has volunteered more than 400 hours at 糖心Vlog传媒MS鈥� 12th Street Health and Wellness Center, providing free social work services and mentoring students as a preceptor. Since her election to the Dunbar Garden Board of Directors in February 2020, she has successfully secured more than $32,000 in funding through five grant proposals. In December 2024, she was elected to the Executive Committee of Dunbar Garden and is currently serving a two-year term as secretary.

On campus, she has served as the faculty advisor for Phi Alpha Honor Society since 2018. She has also been a faculty senator and Title IX investigator since 2019. In September 2024, she was elected as the Faculty Senate representative to the Faculty Governance Committee.

Nationally, Ruhr is a scientific reviewer for several journals, including BMC Health Services Research and SAGE Open Medicine. She also regularly reviews abstracts for the Society for Social Work and Research’s annual conference.

鈥淚 am honored to receive the CBHHS Faculty Excellence Award in Public Service,鈥� Ruhr said. 鈥淚 am dedicated to serving the local community and our campus in ways that benefit both, while living my values as a social worker.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice

Professor Morgan Leyenberger, instructor of social work, has received the Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice, which is given to a 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock faculty member whose advocacy spans across teaching, service, and research.

Leyenberger joined 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2020 after serving as executive director of a prison outreach organization, where she worked with incarcerated individuals serving long sentences. As chair of the Societal and Organizational Impact Concentration in the School of Social Work, she bridges academia and community engagement, connecting students with real-world projects that make a difference.

Morgan co-founded DecARcerate in 2015. She continues to advocate for prison reform, food security initiatives, and sustainable housing solutions. Her long-term goals include launching an Inside-Out prison course for social work students and advancing legislative efforts to eliminate unpaid prison labor.

In addition to her academic and advocacy work, Morgan serves as faculty sponsor of Phi Alpha Social Work Honors Society and is a community advisor for 糖心Vlog传媒MS Women鈥檚 Justice-Involved Health Alliance Research. She has been recognized for her leadership with a 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Sustainability Grant and remains committed to fostering student involvement in social justice initiatives.

“It is an honor to be nominated for the Faculty Excellence Award for Social Justice,鈥� Leyenberger said. 鈥淚 was drawn to the social work profession for its commitment to social justice, and it is a privilege to foster social work students鈥� passions for serving marginalized communities.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Rising Faculty

Dr. Connie Barber, an assistant professor of business analytics and information systems, has received the Faculty Excellence Award for Rising Faculty. This award is given to faculty members in their first five years at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock who display exceptional promise in teaching, research or creative endeavors, or public service.

鈥淒r. Barber stands out as a truly dynamic and dedicated scholar whose achievements mark her as a deserving recipient of the Rising Star Faculty Excellence Award,鈥� Dr. Yue Zhao, chair of the Department of Management, Marketing, and Technology, wrote in a recommendation letter. 鈥淗er commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and community service exemplifies the qualities this award seeks to honor.鈥�

Barber teaches courses in Big Data Analytics Tools, Project Management, and Information Technology for Decision Making. Her research addresses LEGO Serious Play in education, the skills developed during online video game play that are transferable to the workplace, and the unintended consequences of information systems.

Her work has been published in the European Journal of Information Systems, Management Information Systems Quarterly Executive, Information & Management, Communications of the Association for Information Systems, and the Journal of Information Systems Education.

“I am honored to be awarded with the Rising Faculty Award for the College of Business, Health, and Human Services,鈥� Barber said. 鈥淭eaching, researching, and connecting with business professionals in the Little Rock area is a privilege and being recognized for those efforts expresses the value that my colleagues see in my efforts.” 

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Anastasia Boles, professor of law, won the Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching, sponsored by the Bailey Family. Skurat Harris, associate professor of rhetoric and writing, has won the Faculty Excellence Award in Research and Creative Endeavors, sponsored by Dr. Jaafer Golzar and Renee Golzar, while Siraj, associate professor of chemistry, received the Faculty Excellence Award in Public Service, sponsored by the Chancellor鈥檚 Circle.

In the university鈥檚 newest Faculty Excellence categories, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock honored Kiel Thorlton, assistant professor of mass communication, as the second recipient of the Rising Faculty Excellence Award, sponsored by Dr. Scott Bowen, as well as Rockwell, associate professor of marketing and advertising, as the second recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award in Social Justice, sponsored by Just Communities of Arkansas.

鈥淥ur recipients’ unwavering commitment to scholarship, teaching, research, public service, and social justice has significantly enriched both our institution and the wider academic sphere,鈥� Provost Ann Bain said. 鈥淥n behalf of the university, I extend heartfelt congratulations to each award recipient, expressing gratitude for epitomizing the essence of excellence that defines our institution.”

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock annually celebrates the achievements of the top professors of the year who are making a difference in the community through their contributions in teaching, research and creative works, public service, and social justice. This is the highest honor 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock awards its faculty members. Each university-level award winning faculty member will receive a $5,000 prize.

Created in 1989, the Faculty Excellence Awards has provided a way to recognize the great work of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock faculty for the past 35 years and is made possible through the valued contributions of the Office of the Chancellor, the Office of the Provost, the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Chancellor鈥檚 Circle, and the Bailey Foundation.

The 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Board of Visitors selected the university-wide winners from the 19 faculty members who were selected as the top faculty members for the 2023-24 academic year in each of the five categories in their respective colleges and the William H. Bowen School of Law.

鈥淚 want to give a special thank you to the Board of Visitors,鈥� Bain said. 鈥淲e very much appreciate their dedication to this and the positive comments we鈥檝e seen from them about the dedication of our faculty members.鈥�

Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching

Anastasia Boles is a professor of law at the William H. Bowen School of Law and co-director of Bowen鈥檚 Center for Racial Justice and Criminal Justice Reform. She has been noted by fellow faculty, students, and alumni as an example of the teacher-mentor model. Boles鈥� background is in large law firm litigation, and she brings her civil litigation experiences to her classes and incorporates culturally proficient legal instruction into her courses.

鈥淧rofessor Boles exemplifies the qualities that this award recognizes,鈥� Bowen Dean Emerita Theresa Beiner said. 鈥淪he is a master teacher; an innovative teacher who incorporates culturally proficient legal instruction in her courses, creating a more inclusive and engaging experience for all of her students; and a mentor to the students in her classes as well as those who participate in her projects in Bowen鈥檚 Center for Racial Justice and Criminal Justice Reform.鈥�

Unlike most law classes, which use the Socratic method, Boles uses a panel system to call on students. This allows students to know what day they will be questioned in class and helps build student confidence.

鈥淚 am extremely honored and humbled to win this award,鈥� Boles said. 鈥淥ur students at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock are so talented. My goal as a Bowen law professor is to help them develop the lawyering skills necessary to become competent, equity-informed, and culturally competent leaders. Many students come to law school wanting to change the world, so I focus on keeping my classes interactive, grounded in social context, and full of opportunities for formative assessment.鈥�

Boles received a J.D. from Columbia Law School and a B.A. (double major) in political science and sociology from Stanford University.

Faculty Excellence Award for Research and Creative Endeavors

Dr. Heidi Skurat Harris is an associate professor and graduate coordinator in the Department of Rhetoric and Writing. With a decade of experience at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, Harris has made significant impacts in the research field.

Her research areas of online instruction and online writing program development allow her to use her research data to improve her teaching and advising. She is also a recognized national expert on online writing instruction, editing the Bedford Bibliography of Research in Online Writing Instruction and co-authoring important works such as 鈥淢ultimedia in the College Classroom: Improve Learning and Connect with Students in Online and Hybrid Courses.鈥� She developed 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Graduate Certificate for Online Writing Instruction, the only certificate of its kind in the nation.

鈥淚 am deeply passionate about online education and continually strive to enhance the student experience,鈥� Skurat Harris said. 鈥淲hether in the classroom or engaging with students online, I am committed to fostering meaningful interactions that remind students of the human connection behind the screen. When working with online students, it’s especially important to be present in the classroom and interact with students so they know there is a human behind the screen that cares about them.鈥�

Her experiences in teaching and advising online students drive her research agenda. In the last five years, Skurat Harris has published four book chapters, 12 journal articles, a bibliography, and two co-edited books. Her research further appears in books such as 鈥淔oundational Practices in Online Writing Instruction鈥� and in some of the top journals in the field, including Technical Communication Quarterly, Computers & Composition, and Communication Quarterly.

Skurat Harris received her Ph.D. in English and an M.A. in English from Ball State University, an M.A. in writing from Missouri State University, and a B.A. in English from the College of the Ozarks.

Faculty Excellence Award for Public Service

Dr. Noureen Siraj is an associate professor of chemistry at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. She is involved in numerous organizations within and outside the university. At 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, she serves on the Awards Committee in the Chemistry Program, the Chemical Safety Committee, the Faculty Senate Honors and Awards Committee, and the Student Research and Creative Works Committee. Outside the university, she serves as a grant proposal reviewer for many state and federal agencies including the National Science Foundation and NASA.

Since 2020, she has served as the Chemistry Olympiad Coordinator for the American Chemical Society. The Central Arkansas American Chemical Society honored her with two prestigious awards in 2023 – Central Arkansas Professor of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.

Siraj has played a significant role in the community by helping build pathways to STEM careers for underserved children in Little Rock, as well as encouraging students, especially female students, to follow their STEM-related interests. Over the past five years, Siraj has mentored 22 middle and high school students for their science fair projects, three of whom have won awards at the International Science and Engineering Fair.

鈥淚t feels wonderful to be recognized for the efforts I鈥檝e been putting in with students for many years,鈥� Siraj said. 鈥淚 try to do my best to provide students with as many opportunities as possible. I have seen many undergraduate students in Arkansas who don鈥檛 know the future of STEM majors during their studies. I work with my students very closely so that they can see the big picture and the opportunities that await them. I am very proud that some of my minority and first-generation college students who have graduated are now working at national laboratories and making a big difference for their families and in the world. I have received many blessings in my life, and I enjoy public service activities because I want to share my blessings with others.鈥�

She received a Ph.D. in chemistry from Graz University of Technology in Austria and a bachelor鈥檚 degree and master鈥檚 degree in chemistry from the University of Karachi in Pakistan.

Faculty Excellence Award for Rising Faculty

Kiel Thorlton, assistant professor in the School of Mass Communication, joined the university in 2020 and has become well known for his film work and mentoring students.

Thorlton鈥檚 film work includes writing, directing, and co-producing a feature film called 鈥淎 Place Called Home鈥� and writing episodes for the animated series, 鈥淕abriel and the Guardians.鈥� He is currently in preproduction on a second feature film, 鈥淭he Invisible,鈥� where he serves as writer, director, and co-producer.

鈥淚 am so thankful to receive this award because there are some really talented people in the rising faculty pool. In the classroom setting, I try to emphasize working with my students outside of the classroom as much as possible,鈥� said Thorlton, adding that he was headed straight to the set to help a student with his capstone project. 鈥淭here is a lot that can be learned outside the classroom when you have the opportunity and take the initiative to learn new skills.鈥�

Additionally, he is also the coordinating producer for ESPN+ and manages a student crew responsible for over 100 broadcasts a year. Thorlton received a M.F.A in film & television from Regent University and a B.A. in mass communication and theatre from Campbellsville University.

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