Ohio University launches Community-Engaged Faculty and Administrator Awards

Ohio University is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Community-Engaged Faculty and Administrator Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to community engagement.

This annual awards program recognizes faculty and staff who demonstrate exemplary commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that benefit both the University and the wider community.

“These Community Engagement Awards celebrate the outstanding dedication of our faculty and staff in fostering meaningful partnerships and driving positive change beyond the boundaries of the traditional classroom,” said David Nguyen, dean of University College. “Their commitment to community collaboration exemplifies the very best of our institution’s mission, creating lasting impact through research, service, and innovation.”

The awards will honor one faculty member and one staff member each year for their commitment to impactful community engagement through programs, teaching, research, and service. Recipients will have demonstrated significant positive outcomes in their work, characterized by strong community partnerships that advance student learning, support institutional goals, and address pressing community priorities.

Building on Ohio University’s existing Community Engagement Awards, which recognize exceptional contributions from students and community partners, these new faculty and staff awards further demonstrate the institution’s commitment to fostering collaboration at all levels. Together, these awards highlight the diverse ways the OHIO community works to address pressing societal challenges and contribute to the public good.

"The launch of the Community-Engaged Faculty and Administrator Awards reflects Ohio University’s deep commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that create lasting impact," said Mary Nally, director of the Center for Community Engagement. "Our faculty and staff play a critical role in building bridges between the University and the broader community, using their expertise to address community-identified priorities.”

How to nominate an OHIO faculty or staff member

To nominate a faculty or staff member, OHIO students, employees, and community partners should submit the Faculty Nomination Form or the Administrator Nomination Form by Feb. 28. 

For full details on the awards criteria, nomination forms, and submission deadlines, please visit the Community Engagement Awards website.

A selection committee, comprising University representatives and community partners, will evaluate submissions in March. Award recipients will be celebrated during the Center for Teaching Learning and Assessment’s Faculty Recognition + Awards Ceremony in April and the Center for Community Engagement’s Community Engagement Symposium in the Fall.

For more information, please contact Mary Nally, director of the Center for Community Engagement at nallym@ohio.edu.