Chippewa Valley Times

Seven faculty and staff members at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire have been recognized with excellence awards during the annual Blugold Breakfast, acknowledging their contributions in areas such as advising, teaching, service, scholarship, community building, and staff performance.

Dr. Kyle Whipple, associate professor of education studies, received the Excellence in Advising Award. Whipple has taught at UW-Eau Claire since 2018 and is known for advising preservice teachers. In 2019, he launched the LGBTQ+ Teacher Mentors program to connect LGBTQ+ preservice and in-service teachers. In 2024, he expanded this initiative to the Twin Cities area. Reflecting on his award, Whipple said: “I am still overwhelmed and processing what it means to win this award. I am so grateful that students took the time to go through that process. This university was founded on a belief in the value of an educated public. It is important now to cling to that foundational belief, a bedrock of democracy, and teachers are the key to that education.” Student nominations described him as providing “invaluable guidance on job applications, interviews and professional growth,” helping students navigate complex career paths.

Jen Zwicky was honored with the Academic and Professional Academic Staff Excellence in Performance Award for her roles as instructor in arts administration and department assistant in music and theatre arts since 2016. Zwicky commented: “I am a person who takes a lot of pride in the work that I do; my work needs to be meaningful for me, and I’ve found that here at UW-Eau Claire. I can come in every day and feel that I’m making an impact on someone’s day or their student path to success. That’s what keeps me coming back.” Dr. Nicholas Phillips highlighted her impact: “The arts administration certificate has become a very popular option for students...We literally would not have this certificate without Jen.”

Dr. Lisa Schiller received the Faculty Excellence in Service Award for her service within nursing education since joining UW-Eau Claire’s faculty in 2009. She serves as co-chair of her department and directs graduate programs while participating actively both on campus committees and through community health initiatives like Compañeros en Salud y Seguridad/Partners in Health and Safety Program—a domestic intercultural immersion experience for undergraduate nursing students focused on serving Latinx immigrant dairy farm workers. Schiller stated: “When Chancellor told me the news, I think I was probably completely silent with tears in my eyes. What’s amazing is being rewarded for enjoying what I do so much. It’s just a pleasure to do the work.” Her colleague Dr. Jeanette Olsen noted: “Our study showed that students in the program gained lasting cultural awareness...underscores Lisa Schiller’s far-reaching impact in service, education and health equity.”

Dr. Chia-Yu Hsu was awarded Faculty Excellence in Scholarship Award for her achievements as professor of music composition since 2012; she has over 50 commissioned works performed internationally by acclaimed ensembles and won first prize at Italy's Fem Festival celebrating women composers (2021). Hsu remarked: “This is an exciting award, as it comes from my peers...I was reminded of what excellent colleagues I have...” Professor B.J. Hollars praised Hsu's collaborative spirit: “Chia-Yu is beloved and admired by her peers throughout the country...She doesn’t just compose music; she invites others in — opening the door wide so that we might all come to know the professional world that she inhabits.”

Rob Nowlan received University Staff Excellence in Performance Award for his custodial work at Phillips Hall where he is regarded as integral by chemistry faculty members due to his dedication beyond routine duties—supporting students emotionally while maintaining facilities efficiently: “Surprised is an understatement," Nowlan said about receiving recognition."I’m humbled by what people had to say..." Drs Jennifer Dahl and James Phillips commended Nowlan's supportiveness toward both staff colleagues and students.

Alia Carroll earned Excellence in Community Building Award as outreach program manager for UW-Eau Claire’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), where she helped establish its Capital Access Clinic (CAC) which has assisted more than 1,900 small businesses statewide since its launch [https://www.wisconsinsbdc.org/success-stories/]. The CAC contributed over $127 million into Wisconsin's economy while also offering internships benefiting more than 20 university students so far [https://www.wisconsin.edu/news/archive/uw-eau-claire-sbdc-capital-access-clinic-helps-small-businesses-across-wisconsin-gain-access-to-capital/]. Carroll commented: “What we love most about our work at SBDC is collaborating with community partners...this award for community building means the world...” Nikki Andrews emphasized Carroll's mentorship skills noting her commitment to diversity awareness training.

Dr. Carolyn Otto served as UW-Eau Claire’s nominee for UW System Board of Regents Excellence in Teaching Award based on contributions made since joining mathematics faculty (2011). Otto also worked with Robert E McNair program participants plus developed curricula online via UW-Extension; she taught intensive algebra programs at institutions including Brown University—her philosophy focuses on inspiring appreciation of mathematics among diverse learners while developing critical thinking skills.“I’m honored — it’s so nice to be seen,” Otto said upon learning about her nomination."I appreciate being...recognized by colleagues who also see chaos of teaching."

These recognitions highlight continued efforts across departments at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire aimed at advancing educational quality along with campus-wide engagement.