CAHSS Excellence Awards 2022

About

It is my pleasure to nominate Megan Enders for the Jeffers Chertok Memorial Scholarship. Megan is an engaged and enthusiastic scholar, and she is an excellent candidate for this award.

I first met Megan in My GWSS 250 course, “Gender, Representation, and Popular Culture” this past winter quarter, and she is currently enrolled in my GWSS 339 course, “Gender, Sex, and Robots.” She earned an A in my class last quarter and is well on her way to doing so again this quarter. This is unsurprising, given that she has a 4.0 GPA for her courses at EWU, and a 3.96 GPA overall (including work completed at Spokane Falls Community College). Megan’s grades are a reflection of her ongoing commitment to her education, and especially to her chosen fields of gender studies and sociology. Megan eagerly integrates concepts from these fields and readily applies them to new material. She makes meaningful contributions to our class discussions and offers insightful analyses in her written work.

In addition to being an excellent student, Megan is also active within the community. As a Sexual Assault Crisis Advocate at Lutheran Community Services, she responds to the 24-hour crisis hotline, takes hospital calls, and provides resources and support for sexual assault survivors. This includes advocating with hospital staff and law enforcement, while maintaining current knowledge of local and regional policies and resources.

Megan plans to devote her career to helping people, particularly survivors of sexual violence. I am confident that she will continue to be an asset to her community with the education and skills she is gaining through her current school work and volunteer activities. I highly recommend Megan Enders for this award. She seems like exactly the sort of student for whom this award was designed.

~ Mimi Marinucci

About

It is my distinct pleasure to nominate Social Studies Secondary Education major Kimberlee Tallman for the Jeffers Chertok Memorial Scholarship. Ms. Tallman exemplifies the best qualities of an outstanding student and demonstrates a commitment to excellence and service unmatched by her peers.

In Spring of 2020, Ms. Tallman was compelled to quit her full-time job as an Insurance Policy Specialist to help her two school-aged children continue their education virtually and to care for her infant child. Tallman transferred to EWU from Western Illinois University in Winter 2021 to pursue a teaching certificate, and since then this mother of three has been a fulltime student with an accumulative GPA of 3.91. Navigating a Bachelor of Arts in Education can be challenging, but in very short time Ms. Tallman has successfully positioned herself to begin the Secondary Education Program this coming Fall and is scheduled to graduate in Spring 2023 with a BAE, a major endorsement in Social Studies and a Minor in Geography.

In addition to being the recipient of the Biella Foundation Scholarship, Ms. Tallman has received accolades from her professors from the Social Studies Program and the School of Education. Dr. Bob Dean expressed that, “Kimberlee was one of the best students I’ve seen in the intro history courses during my tenure at EWU,” after working with Tallman in his HIST 112: American History since 1877 course last Fall. In Ms. Tallman’s final paper, entitled “Dismantling Legal Apartheid,” Dr. Dean expressed that “her writing showed an unusual maturity, demonstrating clarity of expression combined with thoughtful analysis of thorny historical problems.” According to Dr. Dean, “She was an active, engaged, and valuable contributor to class discussion.

I recommend her as a very promising student who will, I predict, make a great secondary school teacher.” Professor James Rosenzweig, who is working with Ms. Tallman his SOST 390: Social Studies Methods course this Spring Quarter, expressed that “Kimi is an exceptional student – her contributions to class discussions are incredibly thoughtful and substantive, and demonstrate a real commitment to productive dialogue.” Social Studies majors take SOST 390 just before entering the Secondary Education Program, and even at this early stage of her teacher development, Professor Rosenzweig noted that Tallman “takes the work of being an educator seriously, and I am confident that she will make significant positive impacts in any community she serves.”

I have also had the pleasure of working with Ms. Tallman in two upper-division History courses. For HIST/WMST 383: Women in American History, Tallman demonstrated a unique command of synthesizing several academic books to accurately and effectively explain complex changes over time, and masterfully explained social and political gendered constructions. Ms. Tallman’s exceptional ability to develop and carry a narrative is in full view in my HIST 444: History of the Pacific Northwest course this Spring. While the incorporation of archival research into a historical narrative is generally a new skill acquired by students in this class, Tallman has seamlessly adjusted to the academic rigor of this research-intensive course and is creating a compelling argument on how changes to Washington divorce laws at the beginning of the 20^th century transformed legal realities for women and families.

Ms. Tallman’s classmates also recognize her academic excellence and have sought out her assistance, from test preparation, and noting taking, to proofreading in the courses of EDUC 201, HIST 1112, HIST 444, HIST 477, and SOST 390. In my HIST 444 class, she volunteered to take and share her lecture notes with a classmate that requires notes for an accommodation. Other students in the class have since asked for a copy of her notes as well, and several of her classmates are notably attuned to the questions and answers Tallman provides in class. She is not only looked upon by her peers as an outstanding student, but also as a considerate and thoughtful leader in her Program. Additionally, Ms. Tallman is a leader within her community. Since 2018, Ms. Tallman has served as a volunteer with McDonald Elementary School in the Central Valley School District. She is also an active member of Children’s International and the Arbor Day Foundation.

Tallman’s original path was not toward education, but she has taken the challenges of COVID and turned them into an opportunity to pursue a new career both for herself and her family. During her time at EWU, Ms. Tallman has attended department and college symposiums as well as book talks to further her exposure to academic research and expand her knowledge in Social Studies. Tallman has consistently strived for improvement and is dedicated to helping other succeed as well. When asked about her future career, Tallman explained that she “wholeheartedly believe[s] that teachers play a key role in making the world a better place by showing students how to become the change the world needs to see.”

In light of all of the factors described above, I (in addition to Dr. Dean and Professor Rosenzweig) highly recommend you grant Kimberlee Tallman a Jeffers Chertok Memorial scholarship. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you wish to discuss Tallman’s merits further.

~ Jacki Tyler

About

It is my pleasure and honor to recommend Veronnica Hawkins for the Chertok Memorial Scholarship. She is a student majoring in Political Science here at EWU. Veronnica was a student in my judicial process class, and is an amazing student.
Her first case brief is attached as an exhibit.

In more than twenty years of teaching, Veronnica’s case brief stands out as one of the best, if not the best case brief I have ever seen in my classes. The case brief is outstanding and reflective of her great mind and excellent writing skills.

It was a pleasure to have Veronnica in class. Veronnica will not doubt succeed in law school or in any endeavor that she undertakes.

~Jim Headley

About

Richard Murphy has been an excellent student in the Department of Political Science ever since his arrival. In his capacity as the vice-president of the International Affairs Community, Richard has enlivened the Department’s intellectual culture. Richard’s presence in the classroom is truly invaluable.

He is clearly prepared for each day’s meeting and is a regular contributor to discussions. He poses questions that not only reveal his deep understanding of the material but aids in other students’ understanding as well. His performance on exams and essays is superb and routinely demonstrates an uncommon level of sophistication and subtlety. Richard is also a McNair Scholar and is preparing a lengthy analysis of neoliberalism and its implications for democratic politics.

As a result of his many skills, his accomplishments, and his contributions to the life of the Department, we unanimously and enthusiastically support the nomination of Richard Murphy for the Chertok Scholarship.

About

Africana Nomination

Christina is a Black Mexicana first-generation student, mother of three, and McNair scholar. In her time at Eastern Washington, she has been involved in several leadership positions including serving as the ASEWU Diversity Outreach Representative.

Christina served on the Eastern Washington University Presidential Search Committee, where she helped lend her perspective in choosing the 27th University President. She also served on the Student Scholarship Review Committee and the AA/NH-PI Month Planning Committee, where she advocated for students to receive funding and resources for academics and events. After connecting with Tam’ra-Kay Francis, Ph.D. from University of Washington’s Chemistry Department, at the 2021 Gabriel E. Gallardo Research, Student Leadership & Advocacy Symposium, Christina was invited to contribute to BlackPast.org as part of their STEM internship program.

During her time at EWU, Christina has dedicated herself to scholarship and working to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion. As a  McNair, scholar and under the mentorship of Dr. Okera Nsombi, she conducted a research project titled, “The Characterization of African Religion,” which she presented at the 2022 National Association of African American Studies and Affiliates Virtual Conference.

Christina has been nominated for the Frances B. Huston Medallion for her rigorous academic work, having demonstrated academic  excellence, earning a 3.98 grade point average, while also being actively involved in committees, research, and outreach work at Eastern Washington University.

She is graduating in the Spring of 2022 with a double major in Africana Studies and English, and a minor in religion. Christina has been accepted into Temple University’s Africology and African American Studies PhD program, where she will continue this research beginning in the summer of 2022.

English Nomination

Christina Hudson carries books like a bouquet of roses, a stack of gold ingots, or a basket of puppies. She is an intellectually generous member of the EWU community whose thoughtful grace boosts others to stronger understandings. The acknowledgement she gives to classmates’ ideas gives them confidence.

Though her own ideas are often more sophisticated and synthetic than those of us who purport to “teach” her, she conveys these insights with a rhetoric of excited humility that does not sting as we recognize we are clearly not the smartest person in the room.

Her joy confronting challenging concepts is a reminder that there is laughter in learning and that knowledge-building can feel like play. Her interests are not bound by disciplines, courses and quarters, or councils and committees. She brings her intellectual skills to all these commitments.

This is a description of a 21st century scholar – someone who sees connection instead of division, echoes instead of shouts, and agreement instead of aggravation. The model of citizen-scholarship that she embodies will continue to be a beacon to those who study, teach, and write with her.

About

Ami is not only an outstanding student who has demonstrated academic excellence as highlighted by her consistent position on the Dean’s List throughout her time here at EWU, she is also an exemplary athlete and rising leader in our community. Ami goes beyond completing course work to supporting classmates through engaging discussion and applying concepts to develop skills beyond the classroom. She is a role model on the basketball court as she not only contributed to the EWU Women’s Track and Field team’s Big-Sky Conference All-Academic title; she was also selected as Honorary Captain for the Seattle Storm Women’s Basketball team. Furthermore, she is a student-athlete mentor for the nonprofit, Strong Girls United.

Ami embodies an ethical, responsible, humble, and effective leader. She uses information gleaned in classes to successfully and effectively lead others in the community. She enjoys volunteering at Second Harvest foodbank and has facilitated meaningful discussions and actions supporting race and equity as part of the Youth Leadership Institute for Narratives Unbound. Ami embodies the lifestyle of a leader and fully embraces putting theory into practice as she continues to soar along her leadership journey.

While completing her degree in Communication Studies with an emphasis in PR as well as the Leadership Certificate, Ami currently serves as the Alum Director for Young Women Empowered (Y-WE). She uses her position as a board member to represent the needs, voices, and experiences of youth as well as promote the mission and vision of Y-WE in the community, gaining more partnerships and support along the way. Clearly, she demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities both at EWU and in the community. Ami is committed to positively impacting the lives of those around her and is recognized by youth, peers, superiors, and community members alike as an inspiring leader.

About

Isabella is an exemplary student, community leader and activist. With a 3.87 GPA and significant leadership contributions, particularly in the area of promoting diversity, Isabella is a great candidate for the Frances B. Huston Award.

In addition to excelling in her coursework as a Communication Studies-Public Relations student, Isabella has also utilized her education in communications and public relations to help promote diversity and multicultural events on the EWU campus. As the PR Coordinator for EWU M.E.Ch.A., Isabella played a key role organizing and educating the campus community about multicultural events such as Dia de Los Muertos. She also created the first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Chair for the EWU Alpha Phi sorority.

When asked what inspires her leadership Isabella has remarked “There’s one quote that has always stuck with me: ‘Be the person you needed when you were younger.’” Isabella’s desire to help support other Latina women and young people is also evident in her work helping organize the creation of a non-profit called RHS Alumni for Suicide Prevention.

An aspiring attorney, Isabella has also served as the Chief Justice for the ASEWU Superior Court and is currently studying for the LSATs while working for the Nordstrom corporation, going to school full-time and serving as the Vice-President of PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America), a professional development organization dedicated to helping students of all majors find success after graduation. Isabella is highly respected by her peers, faculty, and work colleagues. We highly recommend Isabella for the Frances B. Huston Award.

About

Faculty in the English and Philosophy Department who have had Calven Eldred as a student rave about his contributions to their courses and to the learning culture at EWU.

Calven’s humility, humor, love of learning and service to others is frequently commented upon. Calven is quick to listen, slow to speak but not shy about sharing when a door of opportunity is presented. He is noted for his contributions to EWU’s Willow Springs magazine, for his very engaging creative fiction, and for his wise mentoring of fellow students at EWU.

As one faculty member put it: “He’s the type of student a liberal arts humanities education was made for. The other students look up to Calven for writing wisdom, life wisdom, and insight on their work.”

About

Michelle Blue is dedicated to her studies, has an outstanding GPA, and is proactive with her learning but these typical measures of academic excellence do not come close to capturing what makes Michelle special. There is nothing typical about how Michelle conducts herself as a member of the EWU learning community.

Michelle joined EWU and the Film Program in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, so her first experience of our classes and our community was mediated through online interactions. Despite these limitations, Michelle immediately impacted both her classmates and EWU Film. Given the restrictions of the pandemic, service opportunities were difficult, but one of Michelle’s first actions was to take over as president of the EWU Film Society. In her capacity as president, Michelle serves as a student focal point for the Film Program, acting as a liaison between students and faculty, organizing campus screening events, and developing professionalization and internship opportunities for her classmates. For example, Michelle worked with EWU Marketing and Communications to develop a photography/videography internship, and she successfully transitioned this internship into a paid job.

Michelle has continued to work with MarCom to provide her classmates additional internship and volunteer opportunities. Michelle is driven, and she makes everyone around her the best version of themselves. Michelle is a consummate collaborator, working as a producer and editor on her colleagues’ films. Michelle has already left a mark on EWU, and I have no doubt that she will continue to leave her mark after she graduates from the university. Michelle truly embodies the academic, artistic, and leadership qualities that the Huston Award recognizes and celebrates.

About

Allison Fox, a transferred student from Spokane Falls Community College will graduate from EWU with a BA in Spanish and Minors in Linguistics and Communication Studies, and excelling in her classes with a GPA of 4.0.

Her performance in all the classes taken during the last two years of the pandemic has been excellent. Allison attended class regularly and was an active participant, helping her peers and leading her peers successfully. Allison fitted very well into rather diverse Spanish classes and got along very well with her peers.

By living in Spokane and overseas, Ms. Allison Fox has had various opportunities for extensive volunteering to serve members of various cultures. She sought opportunities to serve her community wherever she lived, and each place provided unique ways to meet others’ needs.

While in Cambodia in 2019, Allison volunteered as an English teacher at a youth center, which offered Cambodian youth vital English accreditation within their means. This accreditation opened a plethora of opportunities and hope for their futures. She led her own classroom in an unfamiliar culture forcing her to mature as she learned about the brutalities that the previous generations suffered – even martyrs for their education. This humbled her as she taught the coming generation as they pursued their desire to build a better future for their country.

At the start of COVID 19, Allison Fox lived in Ecuador where she helped distribute food to impoverished families in remote villages and she also taught English to Ecuadorian children. Food scarcity in Ecuador and the necessity for healthier eating habits informed her writings for the EWU Honors Newsletter where she worked with other EWU students to produce a publication of student-written articles. Allison encouraged her peers in their newsletter projects and helped to connect with the EWU community during COVID.

This year, Allison provided volunteer administration and childcare at a no-cost clinic in Spokane that offers crucial services to women in crisis. In addition, Allison volunteered as an interpreter at Catholic Charities of Spokane & Gonzaga University’s Law School, Spokane, WA. Her motivation in serving the community in these different ways was to impact those that she has served so that they feel honored, respected, and have hope for their futures.

About

Thomas Luce is the personification of a perpetual learner and exemplifies what it means to lead by example through his mentoring and service to others.

As a Social Studies Secondary Education Major, Luce not only excelled in his coursework that spanned multiple disciplines but has also taken every opportunity to gain further knowledge of the field through Minors in Geography and Economics, as well as being one class short of a double major in History. Luce performed exemplary in his Student Teaching at Timberlake Middle School, during which he went above requirements and volunteered as the co-director for the school’s Spring theater production.

Moreover, Luce took several theater courses at EWU and has served as a volunteer coordinator for the Blue Door Theater to help him understand the field and properly incorporate this art form into his future classrooms. Finally, Luce also acquired a Minor in Spanish and has employed this knowledge by serving as a summer teaching assistant at Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca.

While a full-time student, Luce serves as an Infantryman in the Army National Guard, as a Washington State Honor Guard, and in the EWU ROTC. Luce has mentored new military members and has applied his knowledge from this service as a volunteer cross country coach at Northwest Christian Schools as well as helped Living Water International with well-drilling projects in El Salvador. Furthermore, during his time at EWU Luce has served his spiritual community by volunteering as a youth leader and event organizer for Cheney Community Church and as a volunteer Pastor at Malden Community Church.

Luce’s determination to expand his education beyond university or teacher certification requirements is exceptional, and his ability to apply what he learns to the service of other at EWU and in his communities demonstrates true leadership.

About

Maisyn (Macie) Arnold is a stellar student clearly exhibiting academic excellence with an overall GPA of 3.91 while majoring in Communication Studies and minoring in Business Administration. In addition to her extremely high GPA, Macie continually contributes to her community in a number of ways:

• She helps with Catholic Charities, with kids’ summer camps, and in kids’ ministry every Sunday at church
• She serves seniors in her community
• She volunteers with unified sports programs, and with Special Olympics programs
• She volunteers with a nonprofit to provide homes for people who suffer with housing insecurity

As you can see, she goes above and beyond, both academically and in her community. Also, Macie’s volunteer activities are continuous activities that have demanded hours of her time over the years. Ms. Maisyn Arnold is an impressive Eagle!

About

The Department of Communication Studies unanimously nominates Anna Peterson for the 2022 Jeffers Chertok Dean’s Honor Award.

Anna distinguishes herself as a serious and gifted student and it is not surprising that she is one of the few students in the CMST “Chertok Award eligible” listing with a 4.0 GPA. Not only is Anna a stellar student but she is also making a difference in our community by being a servant leader of high caliber. Her excellent communication skills and devotion to helping diverse populations are seen throughout this sampling of her recent community-based work:

• Anna is a member of the National Honors Society and National Society of Leadership and Success
• She participated in Compass USA Foreign Exchange Students Program (French and Japanese students) where Anna hosted exchange students learning and teaching about different cultures
• She consistently volunteers at local church, connecting with first-time visitors and mentoring younger students
• Anna volunteers as a dance assistant at local dance studio teaching young ballerinas how to love the art of dancing
• She participated in local plays and mentored actors in training

It is with this level of community service, while earning a 4.0 GPA for every class she has taken for Communication Studies major, that Ms. Peterson earned the Department of Communication Studies nomination for this prestigious award.

About

Christina’s critical and creative thinking skills, personal drive as a self-starter, tremendous work ethic, and exceptional collegiality and leadership make her an excellent example of all that the Chertok award embodies.

In my Introduction to Literary Theory course, Christina composed a complex and insightful analysis of Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use.” For this paper, Christina impressively synthesized concepts from semiology and phenomenology, particularly noumena and phenomena, to articulate a unique perspective on “Everyday Use.” Christina thrived not only intellectually, but also interpersonally, in my Introduction to Literary Theory course.

When Christina understood a concept clearly, but the class was quiet, or other students showed a lack of understanding, Christina would stimulate class discussion through her intriguing comments, insights, and questions. Instead of just sharing her knowledge with the rest of the class, Christina would pose interesting and scaffolding questions that furthered discussion, engaged her classmates’ interest, and helped her classmates reach brilliant conclusions of their own.

Furthermore, as a McNair Scholar, Christina developed an in-depth, original research project that examined the characterization of African religions in Western epistemological and intellectual history. Christina has also made contributions as a writer to BlackPast.org and been accepted into Temple University’s PhD in Africology Program. Christina possesses a singular earnestness and hunger for meaningful academic work. Christina’s scholarly passion and skill as well as her abilities to connect with, support, and lead others make her an ideal recipient of the Chertok Award.

~ Max Hohner

About

Summer Sandstrom, like all of our graduates this year, earned the ill-fated distinction of achieving academic excellence in the midst of a deadly and ruthless pandemic. While teachers always receive more from our students than we could ever give them, during the pandemic Summer was nothing short of a godsend. When teaching meant speaking to silent rectangles on a screen, Summer’s engaged eyes shone like a beacon of hope and humanity.

Her insightful comments, impeccable work and deep humanity reminded every teacher fortunate enough to have her in class that education still mattered at a time when little made sense. Summer’s academic achievements are nothing short of astounding. She completed most of her credits while a Running Start student and never missed the Dean’s List during her entire time at EWU.

Summer was not only an exceptional scholar but also a selfless and effective servant-leader. She worked for three years as a leading organizer of Sunrise Spokane, a local youth led climate activism group that organized several climate strikes and rallies, including a rally in September 2019 that had over 3,500 participants.

Summer also volunteered with the League of Women Voters as a student ambassador and used the skills she learned through her Journalism Major in her work on media outreach for youth voters. EWU benefited greatly from Summer Sandstrom’s many virtues and she will continue to improve her world and every community of which she is a part.

Because of her outstanding leadership, service and scholarship, Summer Sandstrom has well-earned the Jeffers Chertok Dean’s Honor Award.

~ Terry MacMullan

Summer Sandstrom was a spring Inlander intern and you can find her work here.

About

Seth Collier is most deserving of the CAHSS Jeffers Chertok Dean’s Honor Award, demonstrating academic excellence, leadership, and outstanding scholarship throughout his years as a Studio Art major. His support of fellow students was proven in his generous participation in reviews and discussions of peer directed topics in BFA seminars.

He cares about the rights of others, and in the uncertain first month of Winter quarter, he advocated for the safety and security of all art students who were concerned with the risk of covid exposure. Seth’s remarkable 4.0 GPA is another measurement of his talent, which attests to his seriousness as a student, however it is his creative scholarship and research that truly stands out.

Seth’s work uses cutting-edge digital technology to probe the prophetic tradition as it relates to the contemporary moment. His work investigates the personal and social ramifications of our interconnected yet ultimately alienating lifestyles. His work as a BFA student this year has varied widely including multi-channel video, animation, digital illustration, intaglio printmaking, performance and socially engaged artworks.

Despite the diversity of media, all Seth’s production is acutely focused on the relationship between technology, social problems, and the experience of the individual. He deftly leverages the formal qualities and visual language of his chosen media to express his perspective on many of the world’s most pressing issues. Seth’s work is a powerful combination of moving image, social commentary, and role of an artist in an increasingly technological world.

About

Christian Skok is an exceptional student both academically and artistically.  He is receiving two degrees – a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theatre. His successes at EWU include performing lead roles in Musical Theatre productions, winning medal and honors awards as a performing pianist in regional competitions and festivals and being a featured performer in over 50 concert events throughout his residency. Christian delivers an impressive stage presence in every performance, and clearly will be a major contributor to the Arts in his future career path.

As a leader, Christian has served as an officer in the collegiate chapter of Music Teachers National Association, and as a stage manager for numerous EWU concert events. He has performed in dozens of outreach concerts throughout the region, performed on KPBX public radio, and has been a sought-after performer for numerous off-campus events.

Even throughout the pandemic, Christian never let go of his dreams as a performing artist, and continued honing his skills to impressive levels in creative ways despite the challenges. He is also highly regarded by his peers and faculty as someone who embraces a high level of personal integrity, and his sense of professional ethics and responsibility has been impeccable throughout his years here.

He is truly one of our rising stars, and will be one of those Eagle Alums that carry the values of excellence with grace and confidence into what promises to be an exciting professional career.

About

Corinne Foster is an extraordinary student who produced superb scholarship that consistently exceeded requirements in the Social Studies Secondary Education Major and Education Program.

Dr. Jacki Hedlund Tyler noted, “Corinne performed exceptionally well in Pacific Northwest History during Spring 2020. Her investigation into how newspaper publications influenced the development of Washington’s social welfare initiatives demonstrated a command of archival research skills that’s impressive during the best of times and exceptional during COVID.”

Additionally, Foster earned a Minor Endorsement in English as a Second Language and promotes English Language Learners education through her role as test administrator with the WIDA Consortium. She conducted ESL practicums with Dr. Gina Petrie’s Columbia Program in Bogotá, Columbia. Foster is also a remarkable leader of her peers, for youth in her community, and in her chosen profession.

Dr. Joseph Lenti noted, “She was in my World History course in Fall of 2019, and I vividly recall how she led the class on a daily basis in both basic lecture settings, as well as during their small group discussions.” Foster helped students from marginalized communities as a camp counselor for the West Central Community Center and served as, in her words, “a role model for socio-economically and racially underrepresented children.”

Foster worked tirelessly during Student Teaching to share her own experiences and encourage diverse perspectives at Cheney High School. As a fiercely intelligent and exemplary young teacher, Foster inspires her students. As a woman of color in a profession that lacks representation of the student populations which it serves, Foster is also a role model and leader.

As she explained, “I have tried portraying to students what the future of History (and ESL) education looks like.” With Foster joining its ranks, the future of education in Washington looks much brighter.

About

Of more than a thousand students I have taught during the past decade at Eastern Washington University, Jewell Greedy is one of the two or three best. Her work ethic is superb, her writing is excellent, her analytical skills are admirable, and – the “icing on the cake” – she is a fine people person, always helpful to her fellow students.

During the past two years she took my environmentally-themed classes – History of National Parks and History of the American Wilderness. In scrolling through discussion submissions on Canvas, I always enjoyed getting to the name “Jewell Greedy.” Her mini-essays for our weekly discussions were remarkably well researched, thoughtful, and well-written.

This past winter Jewell took my capstone seminar on the History of Disease. She wrote an excellent paper on the measles epidemic that led to the “Whitman Massacre.” In her essay she explored the character of measles itself as a disease and the conflicting understanding by Narcissa and Marcus Whitman and the Cayuse Indians of the epidemic ravaging their region. In addition to “walking the extra mile” in her own work, she encouraged her classmates in their work.

This winter Jewell secured a highly sought-after summer position at Yellowstone National Park. She wrote me recently describing the demanding application process: “I began applying in October of 2021 for the summer positions of 2022—every Sunday night I had an alarm go off at 9:00pm to get on USAJobs and apply for any new available positions because the job drops happened at midnight Eastern Standard Time. Those first couple of weeks, I would start at 9:00pm and the next time I looked at the clock it would be midnight or 1am.”

I am proud that Eastern can count Jewell Greedy as one of our graduates – Yellowstone is lucky to get her!

~ Bill Youngs

About

Lexi is an outstanding student. Lexi exceeded all expectations in all Political Science courses, and she demonstrated understanding beyond her years. She asked great questions in and outside of class and demonstrated a natural instinct for the law. Lexi’s papers were typically read first because they were so good and she is a fine writer.

Lexi will do very well in law school. Any law school would be lucky to have her as a student and member of the community. Lexi has a bright future as well. She could be a lawyer, or judge, or whatever she decides. Congratulations Lexi, on being selected as the Political Science Chertok honor Award recipient 2022!

About

Irene is an Urban and Regional Planning student. Irene is the second oldest of 6 children who was born in raised in Rwanda in East Africa. Irene came to the USA at 11 years old and lived in New York and settled in Auburn, Washington. He earned his Associate’s degree from Green River College and transferred to EWU in 2020 and enrolled in the Urban and Regional Planning Program.

Irene has worked hard in his Urban Planning classes and has excelled in Methods and Community Development. In Addition to his Urban Planning course work he had served as an intern at Nexus Planning Services in Spokane, Washington. His focus has been on growth management and permits for project development.

About

Marge Andrews grew up near an American naval base in southern Spain, sparking a life-long love of Spanish. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from University of Connecticut, teaching credentials from California, Texas, & Washington and a Master’s in Bilingual Education from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. She did a Fulbright teacher exchange in Bogota, Colombia during the 2007-2008 academic year, and later taught teacher workshops throughout Colombia.

Marge Andrews’ 22-year career with Eastern Washington University began in 1999 when she started work as an adjunct in Spanish after moving to the Inland Empire of the Northwest. She became a Senior Lecturer 8 years later, primarily teaching 1st and 2nd year Spanish classes, Conversation, and Spanish literature. In 2005 and 2006, she ran Fiesta Camp, for children to learn about Spanish language, culture, and food.

From its onset, she participated in Eastern’s concurrent enrollment program, coordinating with high school Spanish teachers throughout Eastern Washington, and organizing workshops on topics such as Study Abroad, Total Physical Response Storytelling, and Creative Writing.

She took part in ACTFL workshops and helped to establish and promote systems for portfolio assessment in EWU’s online classroom management systems. She enjoyed writing tests and new curriculum and upon her retirement in December of 2020, bequeathed many megabytes of files to the Spanish program.

Marge’s appreciation for the languages taught by her colleagues helped foster goodwill in the language department. Her passion for helping students during office hours saw her arrive early and leave late. She assisted not only many part-time lecturers but also new tenure track faculty by sharing ideas to form collaborative teaching teams.

She’s grateful for everything that she learned from her students over the years and for how they inspired her. This inspires confidence that the future of the world is in good hands.

About

Kerry Brooks, PhD, is the former director of Urban and Regional Planning Programs at EWU and has an impressive record mentoring students for a career in the planning profession. During his career he also took an active role consulting and advising local and state planning departments, environmental planning organizations and private firms.

While a graduate student at the University of Washington, Brooks earned both a master’s degree in urban planning (1983) and a doctorate in urban design and planning (1991). Before retiring in January, he was a professor and director of urban planning at Eastern since 2013.

During his career Brooks has been highly regarded for his teaching excellence, his contributions in research and scholarship, and his influential work in the development of learning processes, programs and curricula at Eastern. He also served as a tremendous mentor and advocate for the students who pass through his program.

Dr. Brooks has published his research consistently and extensively in a variety of academic journals, and has presented his research findings at meetings and conferences in both across the United States and abroad. Equally impressive is Brooks’ service to the planning profession and presence in the community, whether it be his support of various planning departments, environmental planning organizations, community organizations or private firms. He has and continues to serve on or chairs a wide variety of boards for professional organizations, task forces and committees. For instance, he contributed to the development of the City of Spokane Pedestrian Master Plan – a recipient of the Governor’s Smart Communities Award in 2016.

Recent accomplishments include research and publications about green infrastructure, air quality and equity, work with the Washington State Department of Transportation on Placemaking and Public Engagement for the North Spokane Corridor, and co-authorship of a textbook on planning methods. Above all, Dr. Brooks is most proud of the positive impacts his students have had on the quality of life and sustainability of the communities they serve across the globe.

About

Jodi Patterson achieved emeritus standards of excellence in teaching, intellectual contribution, and service to university, college, and department throughout her career at EWU.  Jodi was promoted to Associate Professor in 2017 and to Full Professor in 2021. During her years at EWU, Professor Patterson was a beloved teacher of Art Education and an active artist.

Professor Patterson was an amazing professor with a passion for teaching and art, and she taught her students how art benefits teaching, learning, and living a full life. She taught visual art and world geography for 15 years in the public school system, moved to teaching at the university level in 2000, and joined EWU in 2013. She served as the director of the Art Education program, as Art Department Chair, and on numerous committees, such as college and department Assessment committees.

Jodi exhibited her work in over 100 galleries and museums across the U.S.A as well as internationally in Budapest, London, and Paris. She served as an inaugural co-editor of “Artizein: Arts & Teaching Journal” and published dozens of essays in a variety of scholarly journals.  Jodi traveled to over 30 countries, photographed nearly 300 waterfalls, and once traveled around the world in seven days to photograph key UNESCO sites. Her passion and love for life was obvious and she was always working to make a positive impact.  The care that she brought to EWU and the Art Department will be greatly missed.

About

Jeffrey L. Stafford, PhD, served EWU as a Professor of Organizational Communication and Leadership Studies for 32 years. He supervised over 100 graduate theses and projects, mentored countless interns, and founded the Leadership Certificate.  One former student stated, “He is a superior instructor with the knowledge, the experience and the ability to assist the participants in gaining essential knowledge needed to be strong and dynamic leaders in the dynamic and changing world.”  Another said, “Ya just got to like this guy.  He knows his stuff and teaches it in such a way that it is exciting and interesting…”

Dr. Stafford earned his PhD in Communication and Leadership from the University of Kansas (1990) and a BS Architecture (1977) and MS Counseling & Student Personnel (1981) from Kansas State.  During his time at EWU, he served as Department Chair, MSC Director, Associate Dean, and Associate Vice-Provost.  He was recognized as the University Professor by Student Government, earned Dean’s and University Faculty awards for Service and Teaching, received the EWU Trustees Award, and was named the NCAA Division 1 Faculty Athletic Rep Newcomer of the Year.

Stafford’s Action Research approach helps individuals and organizations strategically improve while creating a dynamic, sustainable, positive culture.  Most of his work is regional, but he has presented as far away as Saudi Arabia and Japan.  Stafford has been involved with many nonprofit organizations, donating time and energy to help them in achieving their mission.  Reviews of his work note that he has that “rare mix of business and academic credentials that results in an effective merging of theory and practice.”

Stafford is an avid wood worker and collector of baseball cards and comic books.  Having accomplished many of his career goals he still has a few left: Science Officer on a Star Ship, Imagineer for Disney, Center Fielder for the New York Yankees, and Illustrator for Marvel Comics.