Elizabeth ’79 and Michael Rudinica ’75, M.S. ’79 established an endowment in 2007 to recognize two meritorious faculty members each year. Mike shared that his motivation for the endowment stemmed from the profound difference faculty members made in his education.
The 2017 Rudinica Award for Teaching and Advising was presented to John “Dondi” Dionisio, Ph.D., professor of electrical engineering and computer science. This award recognizes his ability to effectively engage students in course material, as well as his distinct interest in the academic well-being of the students and active participation in their advisement.
The 2017 Rudinica Award for Student/Faculty research was presented to Heather Tarleton, Ph.D., assistant professor of health and human sciences. This prize celebrates her effectiveness in developing research and creative projects for students and guiding them in their work, as well as Tarleton’s command of her discipline and continuous growth in her field of study.
Both awards honor the recipients’ ability to inspire independent and creative thinking in students and to encourage their intellectual interests and curiosity. Congratulations to our 2017 winners!