The University of Northern Iowa’s Division of Graduate Studies honored outstanding graduate  students, faculty and staff during the annual graduate faculty meeting, an event recognizing individuals whose leadership, service and achievements have made a significant impact on the UNI graduate education community.

This year’s celebration highlighted the accomplishments of several distinguished award recipients:

2026 Faculty Award Recipients

Dr. Pavel Lukashev, Department of Physics – James F. Lubker Faculty Research Award
In memory of Dr. Jim Lubker, this award honors a faculty member with five years of service at UNI and exceptional original contributions to research and scholarship, including the creative and performing arts.

Dr. Jeffrey W. Tamplin, Department of Biology – Distinguished Scholar Award
This award honors senior scholars and artists with a long and distinguished record of publications, exhibits and/or creative activities while a member of the UNI faculty and whose professional reputation is national and international where appropriate.

Dr. Nicholas J. Bailey, Department of Management – Outstanding Graduate Faculty Teaching Award 
Honoring outstanding graduate teaching, this award recognizes commitment to academic excellence; attention to individual student needs, interests and development; excellent teaching of graduate courses; and service on thesis and dissertation committees.

Other 2026 award recipients included:

• Ms. Linda Emery, Division of Online Education & Individual Studies for the Outstanding Graduate Coordinator Award
• Ms. Edyta Cichon, International Engagement Office for the Outstanding Graduate Support Staff Award
• Ms. Riley McCall, Department of Languages & Literatures for the Outstanding Master’s Thesis Award
• Dr. Jennifer Hough, Department of Postsecondary Student Affairs for the Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award

“These award recipients represent the very best of UNI,” said Julie Lanz, Associate Dean in the Division of Graduate Studies. “Their dedication, creativity and service elevate our community and inspire others to lead with purpose.”