Buena Vista University is proud to announce that thirteen staff members have been nominated for the 2026 Education for Service Award, an honor presented annually to recognize an employee for outstanding service to the University.

This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment and service to the campus community. The selected recipient will receive $2,500 in professional development funds, along with a crystal award and a framed certificate. The award will be presented during the BVU Employee Recognition Celebration on May 13.

Nominees for the 2026 Education for Service Award include:

• Dr. Jamii Claiborne, Vice President for Student Success 
• Daniel de Groot, Life Science Laboratory Coordinator
• Patti Demers, Director of Financial Assistance
• Angie Dye, Executive Assistant to the President
• Steve Eddie, Head Baseball Coach/Assistant Director of Athletics
• Tim Gallagher, Director of Development and Alumni Communications
• Michele Hoppe, Event Planning Assistant
• Samantha Kay, Director of CASE
• Theresa Melohn, Assistant Director of Center for Academic Excellence
• Donna Musel, Director of Center for Academic Excellence
• Aaron Poor Bear, Academic Recruitment Specialist: Science
• Puritie Smith, Assistant Director of Admissions
• Jen Stockdall, Director of Enrollment and Student Success

The Education for Service Award highlights the important contributions of staff and faculty across campus and their impact on advancing the mission of BVU.