2024 College Champion Award: Wichita Public Schools (USD 259)

The College of Education is pleased to present the 2024 College Champion Award to Wichita Public Schools (USD 259). This honor acknowledges their pivotal role in providing applied learning experiences for CED students in various programs, including educator preparatory programs, exercise science, athletic training, and sport management. Wichita Public Schools' commitment to collaborative research and ongoing partnership initiatives with CED has significantly enriched the academic community and advanced educational opportunities for students.

CED was honored to have Wichita Public School’s Representatives, Gil Alvarez, USD 259 Deputy Superintendent and Diane Albert, USD 259 Board Member, attend the CED Awards Ceremony on Friday, April 26 to accept the College Champion Award. 

State and National Professional Recognitions:

• Dr. Jodi Fiorini, ISLE Department Head and Professor: Named the 2024 Kansas School Counselor Educator of the Year for her innovative contributions to school counseling preparation and advocacy.
• Dr. Mahsa Maghsoudi, Assistant Professor, Counseling - Clinical Mental Health, ISLE: Honored as a Young Professional in Health Care by the Wichita Business Journal for her impactful leadership in health care and dedication to improving global wellness.
• Dr. Bobby Berry, CED Assistant Dean for Diversity and Outreach & Assistant Professor, Sport Management: Recognized as a 2024 40 Under 40 recipient by the Wichita Business Journal for his exceptional leadership and contributions to Wichita's economic growth.
• Alyssa Scott Hoffine, CED Director of Development: Celebrated as a 2024 40 Under 40 recipient, highlighting her influential leadership and dedication to enhancing the Wichita community.
• Dr. Edil Torres Rivera, Professor, Latinx Studies & Counseling, ISLE: Honored as the 72nd President of the American Counseling Association for his profound impact on multicultural counseling and liberation psychology, advancing our understanding of ethnic minority populations in the United States.

University-wide Recognitions through Wichita State University Awards:

• Dr. Jody Fiorini, ISLE Department Head and Professor - WSU Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Fiorini's dedication to teaching and mentoring extends beyond the classroom, enriching the academic landscape and advancing the field of counseling. Her commitment to student success and professional development exemplifies excellence in teaching.
• Dr. Carolyn Speer, Director, Office of Instructional Resources - WSU Leadership in the Advancement of Teaching Award: Dr. Speer's leadership in instructional resources and innovative teaching practices has significantly enhanced teaching practices and promoted inclusivity within the academic community.
• Dr. Chelsea Redger-Marquardt, Assistant Professor, Organizational Leadership and Learning - President’s Distinguished Service Award: Dr. Redger-Marquardt's exemplary, dedicated, and caring service has made a significant impact on the Wichita State community in her roles as Assistant Professor in OLL and Assistant Dean of Cohen Honors College.

College Awards:

The recipients of the CED Awards were announced and presented with a plaque at the April 26 Awards Ceremony.

• Dr. Sun Young Lee, Assistant Professor, School of Education - CED Research Award: Recognizing outstanding scholarly contributions, Dr. Lee's expertise in literacy education and teacher preparation has advanced knowledge and mentorship in the field.

• Dr. Mark Vermillion, Chair/Professor - Sport Management and Organizational Leadership & Learning, Sr. Director of Strategic Initiatives & Special Projects, CED - CED Service Award: Dr. Vermillion's exemplary leadership and dedication have fostered excellence within the College of Education, impacting programs and colleagues.

• Stacie Turner, Office Coordinator, School of Education - CED Staff Award: Acknowledging exceptional dedication and professionalism, Stacie's commitment to supporting students and colleagues in the School of Education is celebrated.

• Dr. Mike Ross, Assistant Professor / Graduate Coordinator, Sport Management - CED Technology Award: Dr. Ross's innovative integration of technology in education has enhanced learning experiences and exemplifies excellence in technology.

• Dr. Katie Cramer, Professor / Program Chair, English Education, School of Education - CED Teaching Award: Recognizing exemplary classroom performance and mentorship, Dr. Cramer's commitment to student success and institutional improvement is commendable.

Honoring Retirees:

CED retirees were announced and presented with a plaque at the April 26 Awards Ceremony.

• Stacie Turner, Office Coordinator, School of Education

• Sherena Langley, Director, CED Advising