Annual Honors Celebration at Park University Highlights Outstanding Academic Achievements from 2024-25
In a grand ceremony held at Park University's Parkville Campus on April 23, 2025, several individuals were recognised for their exceptional contributions to the university community. The annual Honors Convocation celebrated the achievements of students, faculty, and staff who have demonstrated excellence in academics, service, leadership, and representation of the university.
Tammy Good, D.B.A., an adjunct instructor of construction management from Pompano Beach, Fla., received the Provost's Award for Teaching Excellence. Her dedication to inspiring students and her innovative teaching methods have made a significant impact on the construction management department.
Jeffery Kimmons, Ph.D., an associate professor of biology from Kansas City, Mo., was honoured with the Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award. His groundbreaking research in biology has contributed significantly to the field and has been instrumental in shaping the minds of future biologists.
Camille Cook, director of library services and assistant professor of library instruction and outreach from Lawrence, Kan., received the Excellence in Academic Advising Award. Her commitment to student success and her innovative approaches to academic advising have made a positive impact on the lives of many students.
Three individuals were recognised for their leadership and community spirit. Sandins, a member of Park's beach volleyball team for three seasons (2023-25), was a co-recipient of the Sport and Exercise Science Service and Professional Development Award for 2024-25. Sandins also received the Dr. Doris Howell Leadership Award for 2023-24. Raeven Brownell, a senior biology and psychology major from Kansas City, Mo., was also honoured at the event, having been a member of Park's Honors Academy and receiving the Outstanding Parkite Award, the most prestigious honor at Park University.
The Outstanding Parkite Award is endowed by Dr. Elliot F. Parker in memory of his parents, Albert and Jessie Parker. Although specific criteria for this award are not publicly available, it is generally understood to recognise individuals who demonstrate exceptional community spirit, involvement, leadership, and embody the values of the Park University community (Parkites).
Other notable recipients of awards included Leslie Jensby, associate teaching professor of social work and director of the Bachelor of Social Work program, who received the President's Award for Teaching Excellence. Lauren Buck, a junior graphic design major from Kansas City, Kan. (attended Sumner Academy of Arts and Science), was also recognised during the event.
Lastly, J. Mark Noe, Ph.D., professor of communication arts and director of the Master of Arts degree in communication and leadership program, received the J.L. Zwingle Award. Gabrielle de Oliveira Campos Sandins, a senior sport and exercise science major from Sao Paulo, Brazil, was also honoured for earning an Undergraduate Certificate in tactical strength and conditioning.
These awards serve as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and achievements of the Park University community. Congratulations to all the recipients!
- The diversity of awards, such as the Provost's Award for Teaching Excellence, Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award, and Excellence in Academic Advising Award, uphold education-and-self-development and personal-growth in the Park University community, providing opportunities for learning and advancement.
- Achievements like the Outstanding Parkite Award, Dr. Doris Howell Leadership Award, and the Undergraduate Certificate in tactical strength and conditioning not only celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of individual students but also promote learning and personal-growth within the broader context of the university's community spirit and values.
