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Hunter Noble, Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science, Outstanding Administrative Faculty

Hunter is a natural leader with a kind and generous manner, strong communication skills, and ability to juggle many competing demands on his time. Students, cooperators, colleagues and community members respect him immensely and trust him in his knowledge and actions. He is truly an asset to our Department, College and University, as well as to the greater Washoe County community. 

Karla Hull, Dean's Office, Outstanding Classified Staff

Karla began her journey with the College in July of 2018 and has proven herself as an outstanding asset to our College. She has, over her time with us, moved from serving at the front office reception to assisting our associate deans for the Experiment Station and academic affairs, and then to serving as the graduate program coordinator for our College. She works closely with students, faculty and staff, always going above and beyond to ensure all needs are met.

Steven Frese, Department of Nutrition, Outstanding Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Steven is a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in STEM. He fosters a culture of respect and belonging through student mentorship, lab leadership and national advocacy. His collaborative DEI work has identified systemic barriers for LGBTQ+ inclusion, and actionable solutions for equitable hiring and inclusive conferences. Additionally, his inclusive approach to designing research studies is characterizing the microbiome of the people of Nevada in a more representative way. His efforts have improved student retention and made lasting impacts in the scientific community.

Perry Williams, Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science, Outstanding Researcher

Perry is an internationally recognized scientist tackling some of the most challenging wildlife conservation issues in the U.S., including sage-grouse declines in the West, waterfowl declines affecting hunting traditions, sea otter impacts on Alaskan fisheries and energy development effects on Golden Eagles in Nevada. He integrates advanced statistical techniques with field research to drive impactful conservation solutions. His high-profile research, competitive grants and invited talks shape conservation policy and bring recognition to our College and University.

Robert Shriver, Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science, Outstanding Teacher

Bob is highly deserving of the College's Outstanding Teacher Award because of his dedication to developing and implementing innovative, student-centered pedagogy with real-world applications (e.g., restoration and ecological forecasting). Bob developed and teaches two exceptionally well-liked courses: Principles of Restoration Ecology (NRES 460/660) and Ecological Forecasting (NRES 776). Through paper discussions, field trips and hands-on data analysis labs, his teaching transforms the critical thinking and quantitative skills of our College's students.

, , Outstanding Extension Academic Faculty

Marlene has been a member of the Extension faculty since 1996. During this time, she has collaborated on numerous programs, employing an innovative and supportive approach to engaging with community issues across various Extension programs for more than two decades. She possesses a unique set of facilitation skills that effectively brings people together to reach informed, collaborative decisions through innovative research methods. Marlene's commitment and professionalism in her program area make her a worthy recipient for this award.

, , Outstanding Extension Administrative Faculty

Reyna exemplifies leadership and vision in Extension's . Her dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging has expanded the program’s reach, providing vital support to Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs in southern Nevada. A respected advocate in the Hispanic community, she leads all Spanish-language instruction and actively engages in underserved communities. Her impact is evident through her frequent speaking engagements, workshops and ongoing efforts to empower small-business owners. 

, , Outstanding Extension Program Staff

Tracy is a dedicated, collaborative and proactive leader who has made a profound impact in early childhood education through her two decades at the University. Her expertise, positive attitude and unwavering commitment to supporting colleagues and program sites have elevated Extension's . She consistently goes above and beyond, fostering meaningful partnerships, promoting the University’s mission, and enhancing the lives of the children and families she serves across Washoe County and beyond. 

, , Outstanding Extension Researcher

YaeBin, a parenting education, child abuse prevention, school readiness and family literacy expert, is being recognized for outstanding scholarly contributions to her field. Her research projects have led to significant outcomes. She has consistently authored publications and presented at conferences; developed and implemented numerous ; and secured significant external funding for her programs, including two new grants resulting from the recent expansion of her collaboration with Baylor University, MD Anderson and UNLV.

, , Outstanding Extension Support Staff

With 26 years dedicated to Extension, Jane is an invaluable asset to the fiscal team. She takes the time to guide colleagues through complex fiscal processes, breaking down intimidating tasks into manageable steps. Faculty and staff consistently praise her prompt assistance, thoughtful guidance and ability to make administrative tasks less stressful. She not only ensures the efficiency of critical financial operations but also strengthens team collaboration through her dedication, sense of humor and reliability. She is truly an outstanding asset to our organization, and we are incredibly grateful to have her on our team. 

, , Outstanding Extension Team

The Small Business Education Program has significantly advanced business education for Nevada’s small business community, demonstrating outstanding innovation, impact and collaboration. Over the past three years, the program has expanded course offerings by 300%, launched a with 183 videos and produced the top-performing BizLife Podcast. Through strategic partnerships, bilingual programming and mentorship, the program has empowered entrepreneurs, fostered diversity and driven economic growth, making it a deserving recipient of this award. 

📷: Left to right, top to bottom, team members include: Amanda Farrar, Brenda Bryant, Lesley Bautista, Mike Bindrup, Reyna Mendez and Shiva Kittusamy.