Each year, we honor individuals who embody our commitment to student success with the Distinguished Faculty and Staff Awards. This year\u2019s honorees for the 2023\u20132024 academic year represent the best of what our college stands for: mentorship, innovation, service, teaching excellence, and tireless support behind the scenes. We are proud and grateful to celebrate their accomplishments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dr. Aminul Islam Khan \u2013 Distinguished Teaching Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Assistant Teaching Professor in Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Aminul Khan has been recognized for his outstanding commitment to student learning and instructional excellence. His implementation of active learning, flipped classrooms, and project-based approaches, especially in thermodynamics and machine design, has greatly enhanced student engagement and academic performance. Dr. Khan’s evidence-based learning strategies and continuous innovation in the classroom have earned him the Distinguished Teaching Award. His dedication ensures that SCE students graduate not just with knowledge, but with confidence and curiosity that lasts a lifetime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Jennifer Wade \u2013 Distinguished Scholarship Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Wade is pioneering engineering solutions to address climate change. Her cutting-edge research on Direct Air Capture (DAC) of CO\u2082 and sequestration in volcanic minerals earned a prestigious $4.5 million grant from the Department of Energy. She also leads an NSF-funded initiative to develop carbon capture technologies in partnership with Indigenous communities. Her collaboration with the Arizona Geological Survey highlights her interdisciplinary reach and commitment to sustainability. Dr. Wade\u2019s visionary work elevates the research mission of the college and inspires future environmental engineers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mr. Kai Kaoni \u2013 Distinguished Mentorship Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Associate Professor of Practice in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, and Environmental Engineering, Mr. Kaoni is the very definition of a mentor. Through his leadership of the Reno Heavy Civil competition team and the Sigma Lambda Chi honor society, he has guided students toward personal and professional growth. His ability to connect with students and invest in their long-term success has made him a cornerstone of the Construction Management program. Many students attribute their career launches to his mentorship\u2014a legacy that continues to shape our community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Bridget Bero \u2013 Distinguished Service Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As a Professor in CECMEE, Dr. Bero has dedicated three decades to NAU and the Sanghi College of Engineering, culminating in a career defined by integrity, compassion, and commitment. A driving force behind two successful ABET accreditation cycles, her leadership has fortified the college\u2019s civil and environmental programs. Even in her final months before retirement, she chose to extend her service to support ongoing accreditation efforts. Dr. Bero’s legacy of service and her ability to inspire a culture of care will resonate for years to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Paul Bakke \u2013 Distinguished Service Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Associate Teaching Professor in the School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems (SICCS), Dr. Bakke brings not only technical expertise from a distinguished Department of Energy career, but also a deep dedication to student mentorship. His efforts include partnerships with APS, international collaborations, and leadership in cybersecurity education through the VICEROY DECREE program. His passion for teaching foundational courses like IoT and computer architecture is matched by his patience and approachability\u2014qualities that make him both a role model and a vital contributor to the SICCS mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mrs. Cami Iacona \u2013 Distinguished Staff Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As Business & Educational Partnerships Coordinator for CECMEE, Cami Iacona has been instrumental in elevating the Construction Management program. From streamlining NAU Foundation processes to expanding industry sponsorships and event planning, her meticulous professionalism ensures that operations run smoothly and strategically. Her support of Women in Construction and coordination of the ASC competition reflect her deep investment in student enrichment and industry engagement. Cami\u2019s work behind the scenes is foundational to the program\u2019s success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mrs. Leslie Mitchell \u2013 Distinguished Staff Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In her role as Academic Success Programs Manager, Leslie Mitchell is a guiding force for graduate students and a pillar of the college\u2019s academic infrastructure. Her deep institutional knowledge, willingness to assist, and positive demeanor make her an indispensable resource for faculty, staff, and students alike. Leslie\u2019s contributions go beyond the procedural\u2014her presence enhances the spirit of community and excellence that defines the Sanghi College of Engineering. Her impact on academic success is as profound as it is enduring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To each of our awardees: your contributions make the Sanghi College of Engineering a place where students thrive. You are true Lumberjacks for Life, and the college is grateful for the passion, talent, and humanity you bring to our college. Congratulations, and thank you for all that you do.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Each year, we honor individuals who embody our commitment to student success with the Distinguished Faculty and Staff Awards. This year\u2019s honorees for the 2023\u20132024 academic year represent the best of what our college stands for: mentorship, innovation, service, teaching excellence, and tireless support behind the scenes. 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