Education (Colleges & Universities)
Here's a look at documents from public, private and community colleges in the U.S.
Featured Stories
University of Groningen: Professor Jacob the Haan Royally Distinguished
GRONINGEN, The Netherlands, April 25 -- The University of Groningen issued the following news:
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Professor Jacob the Haan royally distinguished
On Friday 24 April 2026, Jakob de Haan, professor of political economics at the Faculty of Economics and Business of the University of Groningen, was awarded a Royal Award. Out of the hands of Mayor M. Out of the municipality of Assen he received the decorations that belong to the Royal Award in the category Knight of the Order of the Dutch Lion.
Jakob de Haan (Delfzijl, 1960) studied economics in Groningen, obtained his PhD at the University of
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GRONINGEN, The Netherlands, April 25 -- The University of Groningen issued the following news:
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Professor Jacob the Haan royally distinguished
On Friday 24 April 2026, Jakob de Haan, professor of political economics at the Faculty of Economics and Business of the University of Groningen, was awarded a Royal Award. Out of the hands of Mayor M. Out of the municipality of Assen he received the decorations that belong to the Royal Award in the category Knight of the Order of the Dutch Lion.
Jakob de Haan (Delfzijl, 1960) studied economics in Groningen, obtained his PhD at the University ofGroningen and was appointed professor in the field of monetary and political economy in 1994. Already during his PhD research he studied monetary policy and public debt: this was the basis of his later influential contributions to both education and various national and international policy issues. As a professor, he has always been involved in education and research at the intersection of monetary and political economy, focusing on topics such as money, inflation, income inequality, interest and central banks.
Impressive scientific oeuvre
De Haan's great interest in economics, policy, institutions and power has led to an impressive list of scientific publications and books. His publication on central bank communication and monetary policy not only received international attention, but also led to policy-making. Through his books, a wider audience has been able to get acquainted with work. He regularly acts as an expert for media, politics or policy makers, lectures and participates in panels on current economic and political issues. The social impact of his work and publications is impressive nationally and internationally, especially when it comes to making academic insights accessible to a wider audience. Nationally and internationally, he is seen as a highly respected, excellent economic scientist who belongs to the top in the Netherlands. In this way, he contributes to a better understanding of economic processes and to better economic policy, and that benefits the prosperity and well-being of citizens in general.
Enthusiastic teacher
De Haan is also known as an enthusiastic, committed and inspiring teacher. Several generations of students have benefited from his colleges on topics such as money and banking, macroeconomics, central banks, government policy, international economy and political decision-making. Former students remember not only his innovative lectures, but especially the open culture he created so that students came into conversation with each other and learned a lot from each other. He also supervised no less than 52 PhD students, including Klaas Knot, who would later become president of De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). He is always willing to jump in the breach for young colleagues and uses his contacts with companies and organizations outside the university to guide PhD students to the next step in their careers.
Valued driver in turbulent times
De Haan has never limited himself to his scientific work. As a director, he played an impressive role in a turbulent period when the former faculties of Economics and Business were merged. For example, he was the first director of the internal Graduate School of Research Institute SOM and supervised, among other things, the introduction of a highly valued research master in that capacity. He was also an innovative director who attached great importance to the quality of education and research and emphasized the measurement of research performance. In this way he laid the foundations for the strong scientific reputation of the faculty and managed to achieve an important cultural shift. Internationally, he was active as president of the European Public Choice Society and the Societe Universitaire Europeenne de Recherches Financieres and a member of several editorial boards of leading scientific journals. He has also been a permanent member of the Advisory Committee on Internal Promotions of the Faculty for years, where he co-assesses critical and involved applications for the promotion of scientific staff. He was also at the cradle of several international cooperation projects.
Head of research DNB
Between 2009 and 2022, De Haan combined professorship with his work as head of scientific research at DNB in a period of profound global change. In this capacity, he supervised about thirty scientific staff and was functionally responsible for scientific research. He gave a boost to the research in the field of payment traffic, statistics and supervision, in which he mainly drew attention to behavior and culture: for a long time an underserved child at DNB. In this position, he has also motivated and supervised numerous young employees and trainees from various universities. Finally, he has supervised a very important project for DNB in part-time about the involvement of the bank and its directors in slavery. He has had a lasting influence on increasing DNB's scientific research and has contributed to the role and reputation of DNB as a knowledge institute and as an independent economic advisor.
Man of connection
Everyone who has worked with the Haan calls him an inspiring role model and a man of connection. He has a calm, deliberate driver style that he combines with a compelling way of communicating. Like no other, he can properly assess when the human interest has to outweigh the blind implementation of a policy measure, even if he has instituted that measure himself. He is always willing to help others, often before the request for help is asked. In addition to his reputation, leadership and knowledge, people who know him well praise the decisive way in which he has used his time and knowledge to guide a new generation of young researchers on their way to a shiny career.
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Original text here: https://www.rug.nl/about-ug/latest-news/news/archief2026/nieuwsberichten/0426-lintjedehaan
Texas Christian University: Investment Strategies Conference Examines How Investors Are Navigating Changing Markets
FORT WORTH, Texas, April 25 -- Texas Christian University issued the following news:
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Investment Strategies Conference Examines How Investors Are Navigating Changing Markets
Finance leaders, economists and investors gathered at Texas Christian University for the 22nd annual Investment Strategies Conference to assess a market defined by uncertainty, as long-term investors weigh the implications of artificial intelligence, the maturation of private markets, shifting geopolitical dynamics and changes to the structure of U.S. capital markets.
TCU Chancellor Daniel W. Pullin framed the conversation
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FORT WORTH, Texas, April 25 -- Texas Christian University issued the following news:
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Investment Strategies Conference Examines How Investors Are Navigating Changing Markets
Finance leaders, economists and investors gathered at Texas Christian University for the 22nd annual Investment Strategies Conference to assess a market defined by uncertainty, as long-term investors weigh the implications of artificial intelligence, the maturation of private markets, shifting geopolitical dynamics and changes to the structure of U.S. capital markets.
TCU Chancellor Daniel W. Pullin framed the conversationaround what those shifts mean for the next generation of leaders entering the industry.
"How do we expand and strengthen public markets for the next generation of companies and investors and importantly, the next generation of TCU graduates who in so many instances will lead them," Pullin said. "For over two decades, the ISC has helped address a very diverse list of themes, intending to be both timely and substantive to the investment community, which welcomes our graduates with open arms."
Each year, the conference, co-hosted by TCU Investment Management and the Luther King Capital Management Center for Financial Studies at the Neeley School of Business, gathers investors, faculty and students around the issues shaping today's investment landscape.
"The aim of the ISC is simple: to bring together investors, students, and faculty to engage directly with investment experts and exchange ideas in a thoughtful, long-term context," said TCU Chief Investment Officer Jason Safran '01.
A defining feature of this annual event, which regularly has a waitlist, is the caliber of its speakers. Past keynotes have included a former United States president, a chair of the Federal Reserve System, CEOs and CIOs of corporate institutes and private industry. The conference's longevity continues to draw attendees back year after year.
Conference attendees heard from Jennifer Welch, chief geoeconomics analyst at Bloomberg Economics; Raj Gollamudi, co-founder and managing partner of OnePrime Capital; Lucas Swisher, growth partner at Coatue; Ian Charles '00, managing partner at Arctos Partners; Arthur Laffer, respected economist and business financial adviser; and James Lee, chairman, founder and CEO of the Texas Stock Exchange.
Shaping Today's Markets
In one session, Charles examined private market trends and what they mean for investors as capital continues to shift away from traditional public markets. He pointed to his time at the Neeley School as foundational to his career, in particular two academic moments: an independent study of private equity and his experience managing a real-world portfolio through the Neeley Educational Investment Fund.
That independent study was sponsored by Mo Rodriguez, director of the Luther King Capital Management Center for Financial Studies and the J. Luther King Jr. Endowed Chair in Finance.
In his leadership role with the LKCM Center, Rodriguez focuses on bringing together the academy and industry. In partnership with the TCU Investment Management office, the Investment Strategies Conference reflects that approach, connecting academic preparation with the realities shaping today's markets.
"Our goal is to bring the industry directly into the learning environment so students understand how investment decisions are being shaped by technology, geopolitics and shifting market structures," Rodriguez said. "That connection helps them build the judgment and context they need to enter their careers ready to navigate change and contribute from the start."
'Excited to do Business in Texas'
That connection is reflected not only in the student experience, but in how industry professionals engage with the conference. It also serves as a forum for finance professionals to continue their development and exchange ideas with peers. Raquel Chmielewski, chief investment officer for Fikes Family Office, has attended for the past three years and returns to connect with peers as a limited partner and gain insight from the speakers.
"I really enjoyed Laffer," said Chmielewski, referring to Arthur Laffer, a respected economist and financial business advisor for whom a financial model, the Laffer Curve, is named. "I was a BSMS and economics undergrad, and it was great to see him. I took a picture and sent this to some of my graduate student friends. It's great to be a little academic."
For students in attendance, those conversations translated into a clearer understanding of how they will navigate the industry themselves.
"The last presentation on the Texas Stock Exchange just made me excited to do business in Texas, to be living in Texas," said Hunter Springer, a senior finance and accounting major, who will begin a career at a private equity firm in Houston after graduation in May. "Hearing about all of the innovation and everything that's moving here, it put a smile on my face thinking about being here 20 years from now."
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Original text here: https://www.tcu.edu/news/2026/investment-strategies-conference-examines-how-investors-are-navigating-changing-markets.php
Harvard: Six Projects Chosen for Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa
CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, April 25 -- Harvard University issued the following news:
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Six projects chosen for Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa
Six projects have been selected as the 2026 awardees for the Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa, announced by the Office of the Vice Provost for Research (OVPR) and the Office of the Vice Provost for International Affairs (OVPIA), in collaboration with the Harvard University Center for African Studies.
The Motsepe Fund was established in 2020 to support faculty-led and student-driven research projects
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CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, April 25 -- Harvard University issued the following news:
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Six projects chosen for Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa
Six projects have been selected as the 2026 awardees for the Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa, announced by the Office of the Vice Provost for Research (OVPR) and the Office of the Vice Provost for International Affairs (OVPIA), in collaboration with the Harvard University Center for African Studies.
The Motsepe Fund was established in 2020 to support faculty-led and student-driven research projectsthat focus on advancing key challenges and opportunities facing Africa, with a focus on projects falling within the STEAM rubric (the application of the arts and humanities to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics research). Following the success of the first five rounds of awards, the Motsepe Foundation has generously renewed its commitment to enable another five years of awards. Now in its sixth year, the Motsepe Fund continues to garner interest from faculty across the University.
Mark Elliott, vice provost for international affairs and Mark Schwartz Professor of Chinese and Inner Asian History, shared: "We are thrilled with the continued interest in this fund from across Harvard's Schools. Thanks to the generosity of the Motsepe Foundation, now even more faculty will have the opportunity to create lasting and meaningful research partnerships across continents. The work coming out of these collaborations has led to actions that are improving life for millions of people."
"The importance of research funding cannot be overstated, especially now. The Motsepe Fund continues to enable faculty to work to solve major societal challenges through multidisciplinary, multifaceted perspectives, in collaboration with talented partners across Africa," said John Shaw, senior vice provost for research, Harry C. Dudley Professor of Structural and Economic Geology, and professor of environmental science and engineering.
The six projects selected this year for awards from the Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa are:
"Understanding the Sociocultural Dynamics of Deploying Slow-Release Vaccines in LMICs"
By David Mooney, Robert P. Pinkas Family Professor of Bioengineering, Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences; with co-investigators Kwasi Adu-Berchie (Wyss Institute) and Phuong Phim (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health), and collaborators Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey (Ghana National Vaccine Institute), Gordon Akanzuwine Awandare (University of Ghana), Peter Quashie (University of Ghana), Francis Anto (University of Ghana), Patricia Akweongo (University of Ghana), Langbong Bimi (University of Ghana), and Alexander Ansah Manu (University of Ghana).
"Impact of the Village Mentorship Journey on Achieved Mentorship Outcomes: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial with Mixed Methods Assessment"
By Megan Murray, Ronda Stryker and William Johnston Professor of Global Health, Harvard Medical School; with co-investigators Jessica Haberer (Harvard Medical School), Yap Boum II (University of Yaounde and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention), Nsaibirni Robert Fondze Jr. (Epicentre Medecins Sans Frontieres), and Romaric Nzoumbou-Boko (Institut Pasteur de Bangui).
"Ecological Imagination, or Climate Wisdom in the Archive of African-Language Fiction"
By Tinashe Mushakavanhu, assistant professor of African and African American studies, Faculty of Arts and Sciences; with co-investigator Confidence Joseph (University of Johannesburg).
"Bridging Indigenous Knowledge and the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A STEAM Approach to Integrating Ifa Orature into Generative AI"
By Jacob Olupona, Hugh K. Foster Professor of African and African American Studies and professor of African religious traditions, Faculty of Arts and Sciences; with collaborators Terrence Johnson (Harvard Divinity School) and Olakunle Jaiyesimi (Harvard Griffin GSAS).
"Preventing Prostate Cancer Deaths in African Men: The Value of Early Detection"
By Timothy Rebbeck, Vincent L. Gregory Jr. Professor of Cancer Prevention, Harvard Chan School; with co-investigators Mohamed Jalloh (Hospital General Idrissa Pouye), Shingai Mutambirwa (Dr. George Mukhani Academic Hospital), Joseph Nukungugu (University of Dodoma and Benjamin Mkapa Hospital), Zribi Ahmed Said (Atlas Medical Center, Tunisia), Babacar Sine (Aristide Le Dantec Hospital and Military Hospital of Ouakem), and Tlotlo Ralefala (Princess Marina Hospital), and collaborator Leila Helu (Harvard College).
"Centering a Local Conservation Organization into the Bonobo Diversity Network (BonDiv), a Harvard-Led Large-Scale Monitoring Platform in the Democratic Republic of the Congo"
By Martin Surbeck, associate professor of human evolutionary biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences; with collaborators Erin Wessling (German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research), Hjalmar Kuehl (Senckenberg Society of Nature Research), Maurice Nsase Soki (Foret pour le Developpement Integral), and Jasmin Mutahinga Kalwahali (University of Kisangani).
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Original text here: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/newsplus/six-projects-chosen-for-motsepe-presidential-research-accelerator-fund-for-africa/
Grambling State University Surpasses $1.25 Million During Historic 1901 Day of Giving Campaign
GRAMBLING, Louisiana, April 25 -- Grambling State University issued the following news:
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Grambling State University Surpasses $1.25 Million During Historic 1901 Day of Giving Campaign
Grambling State University achieved a historic milestone during its fifth annual 1901 Day of Giving, raising $1,251,715 from 859 investors nationwide, surpassing its $750,000 goal and marking the most successful giving day in the institution's history.
This year's campaign carried special significance as the university celebrated a multiversary moment--125 years of institutional excellence, 100 years of Tiger
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GRAMBLING, Louisiana, April 25 -- Grambling State University issued the following news:
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Grambling State University Surpasses $1.25 Million During Historic 1901 Day of Giving Campaign
Grambling State University achieved a historic milestone during its fifth annual 1901 Day of Giving, raising $1,251,715 from 859 investors nationwide, surpassing its $750,000 goal and marking the most successful giving day in the institution's history.
This year's campaign carried special significance as the university celebrated a multiversary moment--125 years of institutional excellence, 100 years of TigerAthletics and 100 years of the World Famed Tiger Marching Band. The convergence of these milestones created a meaningful opportunity for the Grambling State University community and its supporters to invest in both the legacy and future of the institution.
"This moment reflects the enduring mission and purpose of Grambling State University," said Dr. Martin Lemelle Jr., President of Grambling State University. "For 125 years, we have remained committed to expanding access, cultivating leadership, and preparing our students to make meaningful contributions in a global society. As we commemorate a century of excellence in Tiger Athletics and the World Famed Tiger Marching Band, we do so with a clear focus on the future, grounded in innovation, opportunity, and continued impact. The engagement and investment seen during this year's 1901 Day of Giving affirm the strength of our community and the shared commitment to advancing this institution."
The campaign's top-performing impact areas reflected the university's core priorities, including Academic Excellence, Tiger Athletics, and Other, the latter driven largely by the establishment and growth of new and existing named endowments, further strengthening the university's long-term financial foundation. A defining feature of this year's Day of Giving was a full-day live broadcast production, which ran from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and showcased the breadth and depth of Grambling State University. The broadcast featured university leadership, faculty, students, alumni, and partners, highlighting the institution's impact across academics, student life, athletics, research, and community engagement. The production was made possible through the collaboration of the GSU TV Center and KGRM Radio Station, whose partnership extended the reach of the Grambling State story to audiences across the country.
"We are deeply grateful to every alumnus, partner, student, faculty member, and friend whose support made this moment possible," said Brandon A. Logan, Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation. "This achievement reflects the confidence our investors have placed in our vision and a shared investment in the future we are building for the next generation of Grambling State leaders. Each contribution directly strengthens our ability to create meaningful pathways and expand possibilities for our students, while continuing to shape a built environment that supports learning, growth, and long-term success. As we carry this momentum forward, we remain focused on strengthening our foundation, deepening engagement, and advancing the work that defines Grambling State University."
Participation spanned across 34 states, demonstrating the expanding national footprint and growing influence of Grambling State University. Funds raised during the campaign will directly support scholarships, academic programs, student experiences, athletic initiatives, and institutional priorities that continue to position the university for sustained growth and impact.
As the university reflects on this achievement, it remains focused on building upon this momentum and advancing its mission to develop leaders, foster innovation, and create transformative opportunities for students prepared to compete and lead in an ever-evolving world.
While the 1901 Day of Giving campaign has concluded, the opportunity to invest in Grambling State University continues. Individual contributions in support of scholarships, programs, and institutional priorities can be made by visiting the 1901 Day of Giving website at https://www.gram.edu/givingday.
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Original text here: https://news.gram.edu/index.php/2026/04/24/grambling-state-university-surpasses-1-25-million-during-historic-1901-day-of-giving-campaign/
Grace College & Kosciusko County Velo Break Ground on Community Fieldhouse, Bike Park
WINONA LAKE, Indiana, April 25 -- Grace College issued the following news:
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Grace College & Kosciusko County Velo Break Ground on Community Fieldhouse, Bike Park
Grace College hosted a joint groundbreaking with Kosciusko County Velo (KCV) on Thursday, April 23, at 2:30 p.m. to celebrate the start of two highly anticipated community projects. Grace students, faculty, staff, administration, trustees and community partners first gathered to break ground on the Community Fieldhouse at the Miller Athletic Complex. Then, the crowd made their way to Hauth Trailhead, the future site of the Winona
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WINONA LAKE, Indiana, April 25 -- Grace College issued the following news:
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Grace College & Kosciusko County Velo Break Ground on Community Fieldhouse, Bike Park
Grace College hosted a joint groundbreaking with Kosciusko County Velo (KCV) on Thursday, April 23, at 2:30 p.m. to celebrate the start of two highly anticipated community projects. Grace students, faculty, staff, administration, trustees and community partners first gathered to break ground on the Community Fieldhouse at the Miller Athletic Complex. Then, the crowd made their way to Hauth Trailhead, the future site of the WinonaLake Bike Park, for the second groundbreaking at 3:30 p.m.
"Both of these projects are key components of the Catalyst Corridor initiative that represents a strategic investment to significantly enhance community well-being, recreational opportunities and overall quality of place in the Winona Lake-Warsaw and greater Kosciusko County area," said Dr. Emiko Kreklau, executive director of the Catalyst Corridor. "At Grace College, we are unapologetic about our community involvement. When our community thrives, we all thrive. Collectively, these projects will address the health and wellness needs in the community while also contributing to the region's vibrancy."
According to recent community surveys, 87.2% of residents do not believe there are enough recreational facilities, and 89.6% specifically indicate a need for additional indoor facilities. Currently, residents who participate in youth and adult sports leagues such as soccer, baseball, softball, cricket and flag football frequently travel outside the area for sporting events and practices.
The Community Fieldhouse addresses this critical shortage by providing year-round accessibility and comprehensive amenities. The project will include an indoor turf field capable of supporting U-12 soccer games with a divider curtain for younger age youth soccer. The space will also contain six total batting cages for baseball and softball, as well as a weight-training room and restrooms.
The fieldhouse, to be located at the Miller Athletic Complex, will be in a prime location for community access. Eight new pickleball courts will be built adjacent to the fieldhouse and six existing tennis courts, providing sufficient space for community pickleball tournaments. The fieldhouse will also be connected to the Heritage Trail and the Winona Lake bike trails, just across from the Winona Lake Bike Park.
The second ribbon-cutting will celebrate KCV's upcoming bike park, which will include a pump track, a kids bike playground, jump lines, a skill zone and more. The project transforms 15 acres into a space where riders of all ages and skill levels can ride, learn and grow. It builds on KCV's 10+ miles of mountain bike trails and expands access to safe, structured riding experiences for the entire community.
"The addition of the Winona Lake Bike Park, in conjunction with the new fieldhouse, off-road trails and greenways, creates great, healthy opportunities for residents of Kosciusko County to enjoy outdoor activities," said Mike Cusick, president of KCV Cycling. "This new recreation hub will also attract many visitors from outside our region, which will result in a significant positive economic impact for our community."
The Catalyst Corridor Project is a series of initiatives in Warsaw and Winona Lake that fall into four themes: innovation initiatives, wellbeing amenities, connection ways and enhanced placemaking. The Catalyst Corridor is made possible by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its College and Community Collaboration (CCC) initiative.
To learn more about the KCV bike park and how to get involved, go to kcvcycling.org/blog/kosciusko-county-bike-park-learn-ride-connect/.
To contribute to the Community Fieldhouse, visit www.grace.edu/give-to-grace/current-projects/.
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Original text here: https://www.grace.edu/grace-college-kosciusko-county-velo-break-ground/
FAMU Scholars Selected for Prestigious MIT Knight Science Journalism Fellowship
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, April 25 -- Florida A&M University, a component of the public university system in Florida, issued the following news:
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FAMU Scholars Selected for Prestigious MIT Knight Science Journalism Fellowship
By Laila Lynch, public relations intern
Two standout scholars from the Florida A&M University (FAMU) School of Journalism & Graphic Communication have been named to the prestigious 2026-27 HBCU Science Journalism Fellowship class at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Broadcast journalism majors Khalil-Lullah Ballentine and Krysten Hood are among 10 students
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TALLAHASSEE, Florida, April 25 -- Florida A&M University, a component of the public university system in Florida, issued the following news:
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FAMU Scholars Selected for Prestigious MIT Knight Science Journalism Fellowship
By Laila Lynch, public relations intern
Two standout scholars from the Florida A&M University (FAMU) School of Journalism & Graphic Communication have been named to the prestigious 2026-27 HBCU Science Journalism Fellowship class at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Broadcast journalism majors Khalil-Lullah Ballentine and Krysten Hood are among 10 studentsselected nationwide for this highly competitive program, marking a significant achievement for the university's journalism department.
For Ballentine, the opportunity represents a bridge between his journalistic training and his passion for community impact.
"Being selected for this fellowship is an incredible honor, and I'm eager to learn how to translate complex scientific data into stories that resonate with our community," he said. "I believe that science journalism is a powerful tool for advocacy, especially when it comes to addressing health disparities and environmental justice."
The fellowship, now in its third year, is a key part of the Knight Science Journalism (KSJ) Program at MIT. It is designed to give top-tier training, guidance, and early career assistance to undergraduate students at HBCUs who want to pursue a career in science, health and environment. By selecting Ballentine and Hood, the program recognizes their potential to lead in a field that has historically lacked diverse voices and perspectives.
Hood said the fellowship is an opportunity to learn how technology and society affect each other.
"I am thrilled to represent FAMU at MIT and to dive deep into the world of science reporting," Hood noted. "This fellowship gives us a platform to ask the big questions and ensures that the stories being told about our future are inclusive of all backgrounds and experiences."
A Transformative Hybrid Experience
The fellowship kicks off with a week-long summer camp at MIT's campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. During this busy week, Ballentine and Hood will join practical workshops taught by leading science journalists from well-known publications. After the summer camp, the students begin a 10-month program that mixes online and in-person work, where they are paired with professional mentors. This mentorship helps them improve their reporting skills and learn how to pitch difficult science stories to major news organizations.
Expanding the Narrative
The KSJ program works closely with HBCU faculty to ensure the fellowship meets the specific needs of emerging Black journalists. This year's group includes students who are interested in many different topics, such as artificial intelligence and astronomy.
KSJ Program Director Usha Lee McFarling said representation is important because the field has not always included people from all backgrounds. By fostering talent at institutions like FAMU, the program aims to change that dynamic permanently.
Building a Legacy of Excellence
Ballentine remains focused on the long-term goals of the program and the responsibility that comes with being a fellow.
"I want to use this time at MIT to sharpen my investigative skills," he added. "It's not just about reporting the news; it's about making sure that scientific advancements are accessible and understandable for everyone, regardless of their zip code."
Since its founding in 1983, the Knight Science Journalism Program has supported over 400 journalists globally. The program is a leader in science communication because it publishes the digital magazine Undark and manages the Victor K. McElheny Award, the program remains a leader in science communication. By having Ballentine and Hood join this top-tier group, Florida A&M University continues to prove it is a great place to train the next generation of expert reporters.
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Original text here: https://news.famu.edu/2026/famu-scholars-selected-for-prestigious-mit-knight-science-journalism-fellowship.php
College of Education Announces 2026 Celebrating Excellence Award Recipients
POCATELLO, Idaho, April 25 -- Idaho State University posted the following news:
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College of Education Announces 2026 Celebrating Excellence Award Recipients
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Each year, the College of Education hosts an annual Celebrating Excellence event to honor deserving faculty, staff, alumni and partners of the College for their significant accomplishments and commitment to excellence in education. We are pleased to announce this year's Celebrating Excellence Award winners.
Mahlet Asfaw, College of Education Staff Excellence Award
Mahlet Asfaw is an administrative assistant for the Office of
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POCATELLO, Idaho, April 25 -- Idaho State University posted the following news:
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College of Education Announces 2026 Celebrating Excellence Award Recipients
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Each year, the College of Education hosts an annual Celebrating Excellence event to honor deserving faculty, staff, alumni and partners of the College for their significant accomplishments and commitment to excellence in education. We are pleased to announce this year's Celebrating Excellence Award winners.
Mahlet Asfaw, College of Education Staff Excellence Award
Mahlet Asfaw is an administrative assistant for the Office ofField Experience and the Kent Center for Student Success, with a background in customer service and insurance management. She specializes in administrative coordination, effective communication, and providing support to students, staff, and partners with professionalism and efficiency. Her experience has enabled her to develop strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a service-oriented approach, contributing to a welcoming and well-managed academic environment. She holds a bachelor's degree in management from Unity University and an associate degree in insurance from the Ethiopian Institute of Banking and Insurance. Outside of work, she enjoys roasting coffee and preparing traditional Ethiopian foods for her family.
Kolby Cordingley, College of Education Faculty Excellence Award
Kolby Cordingley is a professor of practice in the Idaho State University Human Performance and Sport Studies Department. He earned a bachelor's degree in physical education and a master's degree in physical education with an emphasis in athletic administration. Cordingley has taught at ISU for the last 24 years and has taught a wide variety of courses, and is currently serving as the Be Fit activity courses program director and the Department of Human Performance and Sports Studies chair. While teaching at ISU, he also coached wrestling for 20 plus years, including 12 years as the head coach at Highland High School, where he was twice named the 5A Idaho Coach of the Year and earned seven 5 th /6 th District Coach of the Year awards as well. His proudest accomplishment while serving as the head coach of Highland was being a part of nine 5A State Academic championships, which is awarded to the team with the highest cumulative GPA. Cordingley believes that his greatest achievements in his coaching and teaching career have been creating meaningful relationships where athletes and students feel safe and valued. He feels grateful every day for the opportunity he has to work in the College of Education with amazing people, including the faculty, staff, and students of Idaho State University.
Rachelle Gilbert, College of Education Alumni Teaching Excellence Award
After completing her bachelor's degree in secondary education at ISU, Rachelle Gilbert has gone on to teach English classes for 18 years at Marsh Valley High School, where she also serves as the high school and district's librarian. During her time she has conceptualized a book study group for teachers at her school to collaborate and improve teaching pedagogy, and assists students in every aspect of their learning, whether it is as a mentor for senior projects, student council advisor, a teacher of research and online literacy, book recommender, IDLA site coordinator, or as the former director of her school's German exchange through the Goethe Institute for ten years. In addition to teaching, she coached for 15 years to build the Marsh Valley Girls Soccer team into a consistent state contender. Education has been the unexpected calling of her life.
While waffling about which career to choose, her mother wisely told her she was a born teacher. However, her teaching journey has not been idyllic. After significant burnout, she almost quit after her sixth year of teaching. A book about Hypatia changed her trajectory, and she enrolled in the University of Idaho through the Grace Nixon Institute scholarship to pursue a Master of Teaching in English, which she completed in 2015. Her educational path was not over. She completed a Master of Library Sciences and is currently striving for a PhD in English while teaching full-time.
During the Fall 2026 semester, she will be attending the University of Essex in England thanks to the study abroad opportunities provided by ISU. While her love of education in the classroom has always been keen, she cannot wait to embark into the world to learn through experience and a change of perspective, and to combine these two educational outlooks to enrich the learning experience of her students.
Ashley Schaffner, College of Education Alumni Leadership Excellence Award
Ashley Schaffner is a proud Idaho State University alumna, graduating in 2012 with an Honors Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. Over the past 14 years, she has built a career defined by leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to advancing STEM education across Idaho.
Ashley began her career as an elementary educator, where she served as a mentor teacher, team lead, and computer science educator, developing curriculum to introduce young learners to coding and technology. She now serves as a regional hub coordinator for the Idaho STEM Ecosystem, leading efforts to connect schools, industry, and community partners to expand STEM opportunities across southeastern Idaho.
Through her work, Ashley has supported large-scale STEM outreach, trained educators across the state, secured and distributed grant funding, and founded She Can STEM, an initiative designed to inspire young women to explore STEM pathways.
Her leadership also extends beyond her professional role through service on non-profit and school boards, statewide committees, and national presentations. Her recent capstone work focused on strengthening coordination of STEM outreach at Idaho State University, further demonstrating her commitment to building sustainable, collaborative systems that benefit students and communities.
Justin Dayley, College of Education Bengal Partner Award
Justin Dayley is the director of the Outdoor Adventure Center at Idaho State University, where he leads outdoor recreation programming and student leadership development. His work includes overseeing adventure trips, instructional programs, risk management practices, and experiential learning opportunities for students. With a background in outdoor education and backcountry leadership, he is committed to helping participants build skills, resilience, and confidence through meaningful experiences in the outdoors. He especially values programs that create connection, personal growth, and access to adventure for new participants.
Scott Snell, College of Education Kole-McGuffey Award for Excellence in Educational Research
Scott Snell, EdD, MSN, RN, CNE, is a certified nurse educator and emerging scholar with over 19 years of experience in higher education. He recently earned his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Idaho State University, where he also served as a graduate teaching assistant in the Department of School Psychology and Educational Leadership. During his time at ISU, he contributed to graduate education and scholarly work, including serving as an editorial contributor for New Directions for Community Colleges, supporting manuscript review and publication processes.
Snell's professional background is rooted in academic nursing, where he previously served as an associate professor and registered nursing program manager at the College of Southern Idaho. His work has focused on curriculum development, student learning, and the integration of high-fidelity simulation in nursing education. He currently serves as simulation clinical lab supervisor at Coastal Alabama Community College and as adjunct faculty in the Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing program at the University of West Florida, where he teaches in simulation-based and graduate-level courses.
His research centers on leadership development and role transition in higher education, with a particular focus on academic nurse administrators. His dissertation explored the lived experiences of nurse faculty transitioning into administrative roles, highlighting the importance of mentorship, leadership preparation, and institutional support in shaping successful transitions. His work aims to inform leadership development practices and strengthen administrative pathways within higher education.
To learn more about the College of Education's Celebrating Excellence event, please visit our website.
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Original text here: https://www.isu.edu/news/2026-spring/college-of-education-announces-2026-celebrating-excellence-award-recipients-.html
