Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – The seven recipients of the 2025-26 Faculty Excellence Awards were announced during the annual Faculty Honors Convocation, a highlight of Convocation of Scholars at Arkansas State University. 

“Today is not simply a ceremony of recognition. It is an opportunity to reflect upon the work that sustains Arkansas State University and advances our mission to educate the people of this state,” Dr. Will McLean, senior vice provost for academic affairs, told the assembly in the Grand Hall of Fowler Center.

“At Arkansas State University, the faculty stand at the center of everything we do,” he continued. “Through your scholarship, your mentorship of students, and your engagement with communities across Arkansas and beyond, you ensure that this institution remains both relevant and impactful.”

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The awards, determined through a campus nomination and committee review process, are for significant and praiseworthy achievement in the respective categories and include monetary awards. 

Chancellor’s Medal for Research and Creative Activities

The sixth recipient of the Chancellor’s Medal for Research and Creative Activities is Dr. Zahid Hossain, professor of civil engineering and director of graduate programs in engineering. The medal recognizes outstanding achievement over one’s A-State career.

Hossain’s research focuses on developing sustainable, high-performance construction materials to improve roadway durability. He has secured 70 externally funded research grants totaling approximately $7 million, and he has established long-term collaborations with five other major universities.

Provost’s Medal for Excellence in Instruction

The first recipient of the Provost’s Medal for Excellence in Instruction is Dr. Bert Greenwalt, professor of agricultural economics. Beyond his excellence in the classroom, Greenwalt is committed to experiential learning, creating opportunities for students to build confidence and professional connections for career success.

An example is his leadership of the agricultural business conference, which he started in 1995. Students are deeply involved in every aspect of conducting the conference.

Faculty Excellence Award, Professional Service 

The recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award in Professional Service is Dr. Hans Hacker, associate professor of political science. Hacker is dedicated to service at all levels, including the PRT committees for his department, college, and the university.

He has chaired search committees, standing committees, and ad hoc committees. Hacker’s involvement with the pre-law program includes serving as co-adviser and helping establish a certificate program in pre-law. 

Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching, Tenure Track

Dr. Stephanie Gotay, assistant professor of counseling, received the Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching, Tenure Track. Nominators noted her intellectual rigor, her innovative teaching methods, and her dedication to student growth. 

She consistently receives excellent teaching evaluations. In addition, student feedback emphasizes her ability to inspire confidence, foster engagement, and provide clear and constructive guidance. She also designs purposeful and engaging learning experiences for the students. 

Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching, Non-Tenure Track

Dr. Eric Gotte, assistant professor of special education, received the Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching, Non-Tenure Track. Nominators commented on Gotte’s instructional record, his dedication to student growth, and his commitment to professional development.

Students have described him as knowledgeable, compassionate and deeply impactful.  Gotte has enhanced his teaching by integrating evidence-based reading practices and ethical considerations into his courses.

Faculty Excellence Award, Emerging Scholar

Dr. Ashley Stroud, assistant professor of occupational therapy, is the recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award for Emerging Scholars. Stroud has far exceeded expectations for a second-year faculty member. Three of Stroud’s research papers were published in high-quality professional journals.

Also, she was selected through a competitive process to present at the International Research and Practice Symposium and the American Occupational Therapy Association annual conference. 

Faculty Excellence Award in Mentorship

The recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award in Mentorship is Dr. James McGinnis Jr., assistant professor of information systems and business analytics. Those who nominated McGinnis have observed the extraordinary and sustained impact he has had on students, both graduate and undergraduate.

His effectiveness is based on his accessibility and his investment in student success. As faculty adviser to the Cybersecurity Club, he gives students meaningful networking experiences with industry professionals.

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