Dr. Kirk Besmer, Philosophy Department
Academic Citizenship Faculty AwardThe Academic Citizenship Award recognizes exemplary service in any dimension of University Citizenship.
Faculty & Staff Awards
Each year, Gonzaga University honors the outstanding contributions of its faculty and staff. These awards recognize excellence in teaching, scholarship, service, leadership, positivity, support and embodiment of the University’s Jesuit mission.
Congratulations to this year’s exceptional honorees.
2024-2025 Award Recipients
Dr. Joan Braune, Philosophy Department
Teaching Excellence Faculty Award & Runger/Dolliver Faculty Excellence AwardThe Teaching Excellence award recognizes exemplary performance by faculty in creating learning environments. The Runger/Dolliver Faculty Excellence Award recognizes “a faculty member’s contribution of excellence to the students at Gonzaga University through publication, research, and other contributions that bring value to students within the College of Arts and Sciences and Gonzaga University.
Dr. Gloria Chien, Religious Studies Department
2025 Alphonse A. & Geraldine F. Arnold Distinguished ProfessorThe Arnold Professor is a seasoned teacher and scholar who is recognized for their contribution to liberal arts education
Dr. Rebecca Donaway, Communication Studies Department
Open Category Faculty AwardThe Open Category award recognizes exemplary work by faculty that is innovative or represents a unique contribution that would normally not be recognized in other categories of exemplary faculty awards.
Dr. John Eliason, English Department, University Writing Center Director
Faculty Career Compass AwardThe Career Compass Award annually honors a faculty member committed to building career competencies through engagement with our office, integration of career readiness into curriculum, and development of programs with a career focus.
Ann-Scott Ettinger, Biology Department
Outstanding Staff AwardThe annual Outstanding Staff Award honors a staff member whose exceptional efforts—within or beyond their role—demonstrate leadership, positivity and support for the college’s mission and community.
Dr. Cynthia Gutierrez, Dance Department
2025 Robert and Marion Oster Endowed Chair of DanceThe Robert and Marion Oster Endowed Chair in Dance was established to advance Gonzaga University’s Dance Program by supporting faculty excellence, enhancing curricular offerings, and expanding community and pre-college engagement rooted in cura personalis. The endowed chair reflects a commitment to fostering a world-class dance education that integrates wellness, creativity, and holistic student development.
Dr. Matthew Rindge, Religious Studies Department
Diversity Leadership Faculty AwardThe Diversity Leadership Award is designed to recognize a faculty member who has made a significant contribution towards institutionalizing the mission and goals of our commitment to diversity.
