The Oklahoma State University College of Education and Human Sciences recently recognized 11 members of faculty and staff who demonstrate excellence in teaching, research, mentorship and service.

“The College of Education and Human Sciences is proud to honor these deserving individuals Faculty and Staff Awards for 2026,” Dean Stephen Clarke said. “Their dedication strengthens our college community and advances our mission every day. Most importantly, their work has a lasting impact on our students, preparing them to lead, serve and make meaningful contributions in their professions and communities.”

The recipients of the 2026 CEHS Faculty and Staff Awards are:

Faculty Awards

Anita Silwal – assistant professor of community health sciences, counseling and counseling psychology – received the Marguerite Scruggs Award for Meritorious Early Career Research. Silwal’s research focuses on the intersection of public health communication and policy with a specific emphasis on mental health, suicide prevention and substance use.

Sam Emerson – professor of nutritional sciences – received the Undergraduate Research Mentor Award for his outstanding work as a mentor for undergraduate students.

Dingbo “Daniel” Lin – professor and interim head of nutritional sciences – received the Leadership and Service Award, which recognizes his exceptional dedication to the college and to Oklahoma State University.

Aditya Jayadas – professor of design and merchandising – received the Global Education Faculty Excellence Award for his contribution to the international legacy of the university through excellence in global teaching, research and service.

Yoo Kim – associate professor of nutritional sciences – received the Research Excellence Award. His research focuses primarily on aging and aging-related diseases, as well as interactions among nutrients, metabolism and genes which contribute to age-related diseases.

Jill Joyce – associate professor of nutritional sciences – received the Teaching Excellence Award for her outstanding dedication to student understanding, research mentorship and more.

Amy Dunn – teaching instructor in the School of Teaching, Learning and Educational Sciences – also received the Teaching Excellence Award and is currently pursuing a doctorate in literacies and language arts.

Sumit Mandal – associate professor of textile science – received the Graduate Faculty Excellence Award, recognizing his exemplary achievement in leadership, scholarship, professional development and university and community service, especially in contribution to graduate education.

Staff Awards

Lisa Herndon – administrative associate – received the Staff Mentor Award for her ongoing mentorship of her colleagues, encouraging them to reach their fullest potential in the College of Education and Human Sciences.

Bryan Ritter – graduate certification specialist in the Patricia Kain Knaub Center for Student Success – received the Staff Star Award in recognition of his performance as an all-around star in his department and across the college.

Scott King – CEHS Director of Recruitment and Retention – received the Morsani Staff Service Award for his exceptional level of loyal service to the college and his leadership and commitment to OSU.

Story By: Faith Frantz | faith.frantz@okstate.edu