Recipients, and those who accepted on behalf of a recipient, with Interim President Jeff Ettinger
at a reception on June 10, 2024, at the Weisman Art Museum
David R. Brown
David R. Brown, professor, Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and profound contributions to the University during his 40-year career. Brown is a distinguished academic renowned for his expertise in research, teaching, academic service, and community engagement. His admirable ability to communicate as an educator, his diplomatic skills, and his ongoing advocacy have simultaneously resulted in improvements in research safety practices, and expansion of the University’s research mission. Most notable is Brown's extensive service on the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC). His leadership as vice chair (2006-07) and chair (2007-14) of the IBC was pivotal in guiding the committee as it routinely met with principal investigators, researchers, compliance committees, and others to foster collaboration and adherence to regulatory standards. Brown also chaired the University Biosafety Officer Search Committee in 2008 and initiated the IBC review of teaching activities involving Risk Group 2 organisms, resulting in implementation in 2013. Brown has provided invaluable expertise and leadership within the IBC and his ability to navigate complex research protocol discussions with clarity and offer effective solutions to safety challenges was instrumental in advancing the University’s biosafety initiatives. Brown is a beloved teacher, contributing to the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) professional program, as well as graduate education through graduate coursework and mentoring of graduate students. He is exceptionally knowledgeable in pharmacology and toxicology, and notably gifted in his ability to teach this content to professional students and graduate students. He continually nurtures the development of scientists and their own programs in his department and serves as a mentor for junior faculty across campus. Brown has provided additional service to not only the DVM, but also to the Medical School and College of Pharmacy by developing new instructional approaches, schedules, and assessments in collaboration with his faculty colleagues. Brown’s nominator said, “Dr. David Brown’s outstanding service transcends traditional academic boundaries, leaving an indelible impact on our department, college, University, and local community.”
Philippe Buhlmann
Philippe (Phil) Buhlmann, professor, Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Engineering, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, is a distinguished chemist whose high-quality research program has had significant national and international impact. He is also an exceptional teacher, recognized as a member of the Academy of Distinguished Teachers, and has developed teaching aids that are utilized worldwide. Buhlmann has managed to combine his research and teaching excellence with an exceptional record of service to his department, college, campus, and the University of Minnesota system. His visibility across the University increased significantly when he served as director of graduate studies for the Department of Chemistry fall 2012 to summer 2020. During his tenure, he provided exceptional leadership to the chemistry graduate program, which serves approximately 240 graduate students. Buhlmann led several initiatives that had significantly impacted graduate student education, particularly through his collaboration with Boynton Health to address the stress and mental health of his department’s graduate students. Buhlmann sought to ensure that graduate students and faculty members were aware of available resources, could recognize signs of stress and despair in others, and create a departmental climate where mental health could be talked about openly. These efforts were widely recognized as Buhlmann was subsequently invited to serve on the Student Mental Health Taskforce charged jointly by the provost, the University-wide Faculty Consultative Committee (FCC), the President’s Initiative for Student Mental Health transition team, the Presidential Task Force on Disability Accommodations, and the President’s Task Force on Faculty Misconduct. Buhlmann subsequently served as vice chair and then chair of the FCC and Senate Consultative Committee. Much of this work coincided with the COVID pandemic, during which he devoted an enormous amount of time bringing the voices of faculty, staff, and students to University administration. Buhlmann has also been a great ambassador for the University in the local community. Since 2003, he has been the chair of the outreach committee of the Minnesota section of the American Chemical Society (ACS), and has served as its organizer ever since. The Chemists-in-the-Library program sponsored by ACS has been visiting one community library per month to perform free hands-on activities with kids. In February 2024, the 205th event since the inception of the program took place, making this program the most active ACS outreach program for community libraries in the nation. Buhlmann’s contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the 2018 Janet Tarino Volunteer Award, the 2023 Minnesota Award of the American Chemical Society, and election in 2019 as a Fellow of the American Chemical Society. One letter writer wrote, “Dr. Buhlmann has had, and no doubt will continue to have, a tremendous positive impact on the University community and on graduate education specifically.”
Jodi Dworkin
Jodi Dworkin, professor, extension specialist, and associate department head in the Department of Family Social Science, College of Education and Human Development, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, has a long and distinguished career of service and commitment to the University. She began her time at the University as an assistant professor in 2002. As an extension specialist, Dworkin focuses her work on applying and translating her research for a variety of audiences across Minnesota, the United States, and internationally. Her work centers on developing resources to help parents understand normative adolescent and college student development and training professionals who work with families to incorporate this research into their work. During COVID, Dworkin tracked how families were impacted and developed a three-wave, national study of college parents. A key outcome of the study was recognition that when students faced significant challenges, their instincts were to turn to their family. The results of Dworkin’s study were publicized in webinars and online to help schools across the country understand the role of family throughout the COVID crisis. Dworkin’s intentional process of engaging parents, families, and young people in historically vulnerable and marginalized populations and her collaborative development of education materials, including adapting them to online web-based formats, extends the reach and depth of her engaged scholarship to serve families and young people across Minnesota and nationally. In the Department of Family Social Science, Dworkin served as interim head (2018-20) and has previously served as associate head (2015-18), before resuming this role in 2022. She has served as primary advisor for 12 doctoral students and six Master’s students, on 15 PhD and eight MA committees, supervised four undergraduate honors theses, and mentored an undergraduate research opportunity student. In 2013, Dworkin’s passion and exceptional contributions to graduate education were honored with the Council of Graduate Students Outstanding Faculty Award, an award where graduate students nominate and select the winners. One of her letter writers noted, “Faculty members like Dr. Dworkin, who take on leadership roles when needed and approach policy and processes with care and precision, serve as essential cornerstones that shore up our institution’s ability to fulfill its mission to our students, faculty, staff, and the public.”
Sara Eliason
Sara Eliason, graduate program coordinator, Department of Plant and Microbial Biology graduate program, College of Biological Sciences (CBS), University of Minnesota Twin Cities, is devoted to creating a training environment in which every student is provided the support they need to achieve their maximum potential. In her position, Eliason wholeheartedly handles her job duties which include student support, advocacy, and development; student progress and retention; program development and management; admissions and recruitment; and professional development and service. She goes well beyond the job requirements to ensure the support and success of graduate students in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology graduate program. For example, over the past year, Eliason has organized a series of mental health training sessions for students to help them manage their stress levels and develop healthy habits. In conjunction with these sessions, she also organized a series of trainings for faculty to position them to better support their students’ mental health. These sessions have been highly attended and greatly appreciated by faculty in developing their ability to support students who face mental health challenges. Eliason seeks regular feedback from students on how the program is working for them, including pain points in their educational experience and other concerns that students feel are impacting their success. She has organized monthly listening sessions with students; annual cohort lunches where students and leadership can assess the progress of the cohort; and exit interviews for all students leaving the program. Eliason is an exceptionally active listener, and in identifying the root causes of satisfaction and dissatisfaction among students, she has been able to recommend action steps for the program that improve the student experience. Eliason also serves as the college coordinator across all the CBS graduate programs. She organizes regular meetings among all the graduate program coordinators to share their experience with new policies, discuss program challenges, and generally provide a support system for each other. One letter writer noted, “I can honestly say that [Eliason] is simply one of the best employees I know at the University of Minnesota. She is caring, committed, and always willing to do whatever it takes to help her colleagues and constituents succeed.”
David Lawrence Feinberg
David Lawrence Feinberg, associate professor emeritus, Department of Art, College of Liberal Arts, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, is a distinguished community-engaged scholar internationally recognized for the disciplinary and societal impact of his 53 years of work devoted to social justice, world peace, and memory studies. An impassioned advocate for global understanding and global justice, a strong defender of human rights activists, and an exceptional artist, Feinberg followed a life-long learning trek involving global communities from all social, political, and geographic levels. Among the objectives of Feinberg’s life projects is to artistically connect world genocides with the obliteration of particular ethnic communities since the Holocaust to the human disposal of artists, intellectuals, students, and political activists all over the world. An essential part of Feinberg’s scholarly activities is Voice to Vision, an artistic human rights project he developed in collaboration with the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, that has allowed the visualization of the particular views of those who survived the Jewish European Holocaust, and the killing fields of five continents. One of the people who shared their story of survival with Feinberg had this to say about working with him, "Without [Feinberg’s] guidance, and human kindness, my buried memories may have not been attainable, even as I struggled with things I wanted to forget." These words reflect the impact of Feinberg’s work with not only artists and political activists, but also international victims who shared their private and public stories about terror, despair, ethnic and racial displacements, dictatorships, and other adversities with Feinberg. His dedication to the Voice to Vision project is evident, even in retirement, and his ability to inspire others to commit themselves to the project, is truly inspiring. Feinberg has developed a thriving community of alumni, staff, and faculty who have gone on to do expansive work elsewhere, and whose work has primarily been shaped by their experience with the Voice to Vision project. Because of his crucial role in the dissemination of visual documents of human suffering, trauma, and healing processes, Feinberg became a United States cultural ambassador whose art exhibitions reached numerous international highly recognized art centers, including the American Theater Festival in Cadiz, Spain and the Corporación Colombiana de Teatro in Bogotá, Columbia. One letter writer wrote, “[Feinberg] brings an incredible vitality, experience, and a professional ethic to his work that makes all of us shine, especially the University of Minnesota’s public face to the arts and broader community.”
Karen Z. Ho
Karen Z. Ho, professor, Department of Anthropology, College of Liberal Arts, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, has demonstrated an enduring commitment and devotion to the overlapping goals of supporting graduate students, promoting the inclusion and success of diverse faculty and students, and creating spaces and structures for curriculum and scholarship that address questions of power and inequality. Her three most substantial leadership roles have been serving as director of the Race, Indigeneity, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (RIDGS) Initiative, as director of graduate studies in the Department of Anthropology, and as the current interim chair of the Department of African American & African Studies. To each of these roles, Ho brings her unique blend of creative problem-solving, inclusive communication, incisive assessment, and expansive good humor. Ho’s leadership as director of graduate studies, through the upheaval that resulted from the global pandemic and the epidemic of racial violence, was invaluable for the continued functioning of the department. Her generous, constructive, and discerning personality helped create a secure space where members of the anthropological community could begin to reimagine what anthropology, and academia as a whole, should be. Given her scholarly prestige, it is not surprising that Ho is in great demand for editorial work for journals and leadership positions in some of the most prestigious organizations in her field, such as the American Anthropological Association. She also has the unique ability to understand and communicate complex ideas across disciplines and to multiple audiences both inside and outside the University, which has made her one of our most innovative teachers. Ho generously supports a multitude of DEI projects, engagement efforts, and has consistently performed outstanding University service over the entirety of her career to create more welcoming, inclusive, and accessible spaces within the University for marginalized scholars. She serves on the mentoring committees of every pre-tenure faculty member in her department, including one who is firmly located in a different subfield. Ho is a highly sought member of graduate student committees based on her reliability and meaningful contributions. One letter writer concluded, “You will read lists of her accomplishments, examples of her generosity, and testimonials to her contributions, but in the end they all sum to one unassailable fact: Professor Ho improves the lives, experiences, and functioning of every person, group, or institution she interacts with.”
Jerome Knutson
Jerome (Jerry) Knutson, associate professor emeritus, Arts and Sciences, University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC), is an exemplary figure in the University of Minnesota community, celebrated for his unwavering dedication and service. His journey began at UMC in 1969, where he served as a beloved faculty member until his retirement in 2004. Known for his extraordinary commitment to students, Knutson's impact extends far beyond the classroom. As a faculty advisor, he provided steadfast support, encouraging students to excel academically and in their extracurricular pursuits. His dedication is evident in his personal touch, such as creating personalized folders with clippings and photos for each of his advisees, fostering lifelong connections with many of them. Knutson's influence continued post-retirement, as he remained an active presence on the UMC campus, attending events, supporting student activities, and contributing to various committees and advisory boards. His involvement with the Minnesota Migrant Education Program and local science fairs showcases his dedication to education and community service. Knutson's innovative approach to teaching, including his early adoption of online courses, further underscores his commitment to student success. His handwritten notes and thoughtful gestures have touched many lives, reflecting his kindness and supportive nature. Recognized multiple times by students for his support, Knutson embodies the spirit of service, cooperation, and inclusiveness. As one letter writer aptly described, "His service is through the personal connections and relationships he has with students, alumni, and faculty and staff. Fueled by his kind heart, friendly nature, and boundless encouragement, [Knutson] has undoubtedly had a positive and lasting impact on countless individuals." These sentiments reflect the lasting impact Knutson has had on the UMC community, exemplifying why he is a worthy recipient of this award.
Jennifer Mencl
Jennifer (Jen) Mencl, associate vice chancellor, Academic Affairs, University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD), has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to UMD for nearly two decades. Her leadership and innovative approaches have significantly enhanced the University's community, fostering collaboration, open communication, and engagement. Serving as associate vice chancellor for Academic Affairs since 2016, Mencl has managed a complex portfolio that includes curricular procedures, accreditation, campus assessment, strategic planning, and public engagement activities. One of her notable initiatives is the UMD Lunch n’ Learn program, which provides a space for faculty and staff to share knowledge and engage in informal conversations. Since its inception in fall 2022, over 50 sessions have been held, fostering a sense of community and continuous learning. In fall 2023, Mencl played an instrumental role in implementing the Theorizing Race, Power, and Justice liberal education requirement. She collaborated with Dr. Jeanine Weekes-Schroer to develop a framework for faculty workshops, resulting in over 50 faculty members participating and almost 30 courses being approved. Recognizing the need for inclusive policy feedback, Mencl redesigned the campus policy feedback process to ensure all voices are heard. She also strengthened relationships with associate deans by establishing routine meetings with the Council of Associate Deans, which has streamlined procedures, processes, and policies surrounding undergraduate education. Mencl has also redefined the onboarding process for new faculty by introducing ongoing opportunities for connection and professional development throughout their first semester. This initiative has received positive feedback for its effectiveness. During the summer of 2024, Mencl facilitated a student success initiative, which sparked meaningful conversations and laid the groundwork for ongoing efforts to enhance student success on campus. Her dedication to public engagement is exemplified by her leadership in UMD's successful application for the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification. Mencl’s efforts ensured UMD's recognition alongside other University of Minnesota campuses, making the University system the first in the country to have all its campuses designated. As one letter writer stated, "[Mencl’s] commitment to the University of Minnesota is inspiring; she leads with passion, grace, and humbleness. Her work has significantly advanced UMD's community engagement and student success, making her an exemplary candidate for the President’s Award for Outstanding Service."
Trevor Miller
Trevor Miller, assistant dean of strategy and advancement, College of Design, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, embodies the essence of dedication and excellence. His role highlights his remarkable abilities as a creative problem solver, empathetic listener, skilled connector, strategic thinker, and caring activist. Miller’s talent for addressing challenges is evident in his frequent interactions with staff and faculty who seek his guidance. For instance, he recently assisted a faculty member overwhelmed by multiple responsibilities, dedicating hours to developing a stress-reducing, effective management plan. This anecdote illustrates his consistent and successful problem-solving approach, rooted in empathy and understanding. As a strategic thinker, Miller's big-picture perspective has been crucial in shaping the College of Design’s future. Miller’s University service is not limited to his official duties; his involvement in University-wide committees, such as the Toaster Innovation Hub Steering Committee and the PEAK Academic Feedback Committee, highlight his dedication to fostering innovation and improving academic structures for all. His role within the College of Design, advising on strategic initiatives, budget planning, and more, has earned him respect and trust across the University. As one colleague noted, "[Miller] has the rare ability to combine strategic vision with empathetic action, making him not only a leader but also a pillar of support and inspiration for the entire University community."
Karen Nichols
Karen Nichols, associate director, Center for Regional and Tribal Child Welfare Studies, Department of Social Work, College of Education and Human Service Professions, University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD), personifies dedication and excellence. In this role, Nichols has overseen many grants, managed large budgets, and ensured the success of important programs such as Upward Bound. Her distinguished career at UMD illustrates her strong problem-solving skills, patience, attention to detail, and emotional intelligence. Her commitment to fairness and justice is clear through her work with the Intercultural Development Inventory, which has greatly improved students' cross-cultural understanding and has been adopted by other universities across the country. Nichols’ strong writing and editing skills have been key in developing proposals and securing funding for projects, such as the Tribal Training and Certification Partnership, which trains child welfare workers on Indian child welfare. Additionally, her ability to teach colleagues about complex federal and state budgets has made her a go-to advisor for grant writing and management. Her dedication is also clear in her community service. Nichols has helped low-income individuals with tax preparation and supported many community-based organizations through her volunteer work. Over the last 20+ years, Nichols has demonstrated an unparalleled work ethic, incredible successes, and an undeniable commitment to her colleagues and students. One letter writer noted, "[Nichols’] exceptional service and dedication have made her an indispensable asset to UMD, transforming challenges into opportunities and fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for all.” Nichols’ legacy of service and excellence will continue to inspire her colleagues and the many lives she has touched throughout her remarkable career.
David Pappone
David Pappone, assistant dean for operations and chief financial officer, College of Science and Engineering (CSE), University of Minnesota Twin Cities, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership. Since joining CSE in 2008, his adeptness in navigating the intricacies of the University's financial systems has been invaluable. Pappone’s remarkable ability to grasp complex financial models was evident in his dissertation on Responsibility Center Management, written as part of his PhD program in educational policy and administration (2016), which has since served as a reference for the institution. Colleagues commend Pappone's tireless work ethic, analytical prowess, and approachable demeanor. His commitment to service and excellence has earned him increasing responsibilities and respect within CSE, culminating in his current leadership position. His numerous contributions have been instrumental in navigating challenges, driving progress, and fostering a culture of excellence. Pappone's commitment to service extends beyond the confines of CSE, as he actively participates in University-wide projects and initiatives. From overseeing the implementation of the PeopleSoft Electronic Financial System, to serving on various committees focused on financial management and research administration, Pappone's expertise has been instrumental in advancing institutional goals. Pappone's steady guidance and clear communication, particularly during times of crisis, have provided reassurance to department administrators and faculty members, while his role in advocating for student-centric initiatives, such as creating dedicated spaces for student organizations and professional interview rooms, underscores his commitment to enhancing the CSE student experience. Pappone's impact on the CSE transcends his official job description, as he consistently demonstrates a willingness to support colleagues and address challenges head-on. His contributions have not only shaped the operational landscape of CSE, but have also fostered a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence. In the words of one letter writer, “His fairness, ability to lay out how things work, and present the ‘big picture’ is exceptional; you may not like all decisions he has to make, but he never leaves you wondering why.”
Carolyn Privet-Chesterman
Carolyn Privet-Chesterman, administrative associate of academic programs, Center for Learning Innovation, University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR), is an invaluable member of the UMR community, dedicated to advancing its mission and supporting its faculty, staff, and students. In this role, Privet-Chesterman plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth functioning of UMR's educational mission. Since joining UMR in 2016, she has become indispensable, offering crucial yet often invisible support to faculty and staff. Privet-Chesterman's responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, including course and room scheduling, faculty support, and navigating various enterprise systems. She also provides critical input and support to several faculty and University committees, including the Curriculum and Research and Education Symposium committees, ensuring the smooth functioning of meetings and helping preserve institutional memory as a non-voting minute taker. In addition, she actively contributes to the campus community's diversity efforts. In 2022, Privet-Chesterman was part of a small team sent to the Institute on Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) Campus Centers. Since then, she has co-led numerous TRHT Circles, guiding discussions on important and sensitive topics related to diversity. This group won the UMR Outstanding Innovation Award for 2022-2023, with Privet-Chesterman being a vital member. Privet-Chesterman has also demonstrated a commitment to representative advocacy, having been involved in the Staff Assembly or Civil Service Senate since 2018, while also playing a critical role in faculty governance, supporting agenda creation for her unit and campus-level faculty governance bodies. Like most small institutions, staff turnover at UMR has a disproportionate impact, as often the person leaving was the only one fulfilling that role. Privet-Chesterman makes a concerted effort to cross-train in many different areas, allowing her to fill gaps created when people leave. Her unfailing optimism and cheerful demeanor have a transformative effect, resolving conflicts, and fostering a supportive work environment. One letter writer noted that “...if you need something you don’t say ‘hey, Google’, you say ‘hey Carolyn.’ You will get help just as quickly and accurately, and with a smile to boot.”