Wichita State University's College of Education recognized faculty, staff and partners for their outstanding contributions during its 2026 faculty and staff awards event.

Recipients were recognized during the annual College of Education awards event on April 17, 2026, for their impact through teaching, research, service, innovation, leadership and student support across the university, the college and the communities they serve.

Project Teacher 

Project Teacher was recognized for their outstanding partnership and support of the College of Education. Founded in Wichita, Project Teacher is the only year-round teacher resource center in Kansas, providing free classroom supplies to educators across the state and supporting thousands of students.

Under Terry Johnson’s leadership, the organization has expanded its impact through supply distributions, literacy and STEAM resource kits, and initiatives that support educators at every stage of their careers. In partnership with Credit Union of America, Project Teacher provided classroom supply boxes to graduates of the Teacher Apprentice Program during their pinning ceremony. The organization has also supported alumni through events such as the Back to School Bash and collaborated with the School Counseling program to provide professional resource kits for practicum and internship students.

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Wichita State University Leadership in the Advancement of Teaching Award — Dr. Daniel Bergman, professor of science education
Dr. Daniel Bergman was recognized for his leadership in advancing teaching at Wichita State University. Over more than 18 years, he has contributed to numerous university initiatives, including serving as Faculty Retention Fellow and teaching First-Year Seminar courses since the program’s inception. His work in teacher education includes extensive publications, including Teaching is for Superheroes!, and has supported student research presentations at state and university conferences.

Wichita State University Tenure Track Faculty Risk Taker Award — Dr. Chris Proppe, faculty member in Human Performance Studies
Dr. Chris Proppe was recognized for innovative leadership early in his tenure at Wichita State. He led accreditation efforts for the undergraduate Strength and Conditioning Exercise Science track through the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education, guiding a comprehensive self-study process while continuing to contribute through teaching, mentoring and research.

Wichita State University Academy for Effective Teaching Award — Robin Folkerts, elementary education program chair and assistant teaching educator
Robin Folkerts was recognized for excellence in teaching based on student feedback and a comprehensive review of her teaching portfolio. Her work reflects a strong commitment to preparing future educators and modeling effective teaching practices in the classroom.

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Lindquist Teaching Award — Dr. Chelsea Redger-Marquardt, assistant professor in Sport and Leadership Studies and assistant dean in the Dorothy and Bill Cohen Honors College
Dr. Chelsea Redger-Marquardt was recognized for creating meaningful learning experiences that connect classroom knowledge with community impact. Through a partnership with ICT Food Rescue, she guided students in completing feasibility studies that applied leadership and partnership development skills in a real-world setting. Her student-centered approach includes scaffolded learning, flexible course design and mentorship that supports student growth.

Research Award — Dr. Jason Li, associate professor
Dr. Jason Li was recognized for an outstanding record of scholarship in counselor education and career development. His work includes more than 1,000 citations, multiple awards and research on topics such as social cognitive career theory, acculturation and mental health. His current research explores the role of artificial intelligence in counselor education and is supported by a $60,000 grant from the Spencer Education Foundation.

Service Award — Dr. Jeff Noble, associate professor and applied learning coordinator in the Sport and Leadership Studies Department
Dr. Jeff Noble was recognized for exceptional service to his department, the college and the broader community. His leadership includes work on program committees, accreditation efforts and faculty governance, including chairing the College of Education Faculty Personnel Committee. He also supports student success through his role as undergraduate program coordinator for Sport Management.

Technology Innovation Award — Dr. Patty Nuhfer, assistant professor in the School Psychology program
Dr. Patty Nuhfer was recognized for innovative use of technology to expand access and support educators across Kansas. She developed partnerships with rural schools, secured funding for virtual professional development and created a centralized digital library of intervention materials that provides educators with accessible, high-quality resources and training.

Outstanding Non-Instructional Administrative Staff Award — Michelle Critchfield, business manager and executive assistant in the College of Education Dean’s Office
Michelle Critchfield was recognized for exceptional leadership, professionalism and attention to detail in supporting the college’s operations. She led the college’s transition back to the Corbin Education Center and strengthened communication through initiatives such as the weekly CED Top 10. She also played a key role in coordinating the college’s Centennial celebration.

Outstanding Non-Instructional Student-Centric Staff Award — Nichole Woods, lead academic advisor for the Teacher Apprentice Program and College of Education
Nichole Woods was recognized for her strong commitment to student success through thoughtful, student-centered advising. She creates a supportive environment, anticipates challenges and provides individualized guidance that strengthens student confidence, retention and engagement.

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Human Performance Studies Department
The Human Performance Studies Department was recognized for its years of academic service to Exercise Science and Athletic Training students within the College of Education. The department’s contributions in teaching, scholarship and student support have played an important role in the college’s success.

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Susie Steinbach, administrative specialist for the Sport and Leadership Studies Department
Susie Steinbach was recognized for her dedicated service since 2016, supporting numerous initiatives within the department and serving as a trusted colleague.

Dr. Deanna Gooch, assistant clinical professor in the CLES Department
Dr. Deanna Gooch was recognized for her contributions to programs including District Leadership, Coaching and Mentoring, and her leadership of the Kansas Mentoring and Induction Center, supporting educators and district leaders across Kansas.

Dr. Jean Patterson, professor of educational leadership in the CLES Department
Dr. Jean Patterson was recognized for 27 years of service to the College of Education. Her teaching and mentorship have prepared generations of educational leadership students and made a lasting impact on schools and communities.