Recipients will be honored during the Faculty and Staff President\u2019s Awards for Excellence ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 3 p.m. in the Student Union Apollo Room.<\/span><\/p>\n Faculty President\u2019s Awards for Excellence recipients \u2014 profiled separately<\/a> \u2014 and 2026 Service Awards recipients will also be honored during the ceremony.<\/span><\/p>\n Kimberly Hudson<\/p><\/div>\n Kimberly Hudson<\/strong> Kimberly Hudson\u2019s 38 years at Wright State have been defined not only by her dedication to the university, but by the countless people whose lives she has made a little easier. And to those who know her, it is no surprise that this is Hudson\u2019s second President\u2019s Award for Excellence.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Hudson is the go-to person for faculty, staff and students. Whether it\u2019s an employee seeking guidance or delivering a student\u2019s forgotten iPad, \u201cthat\u2019s not my job\u201d is not in Hudson\u2019s vocabulary.<\/span><\/p>\n Her impact extends beyond her job description. She created a pantry stocked with food and toiletries for students in need and transformed unused spaces into gathering areas.<\/span><\/p>\n What sets Hudson apart is how she makes people feel. She treats everyone she encounters with kindness, patience and respect. Her office has become a place where people come whether they need support, encouragement or a smile.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cFor over 30 years, Kim has represented the best of Wright State,\u201d said Colleen Saxen, Ed.D., chair of the School of Education and Leadership. \u201cThrough her generosity, humor, knowledge and unwavering care for others, she has created a culture of belonging that benefits everyone who knows her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Hideo Tsuchida<\/p><\/div>\n Hideo Tsuchida<\/strong> Wright State is not always the start of a student\u2019s academic journey. But for those who find their way here, it\u2019s certain that Hideo Tsuchida played a role in that transition.<\/span><\/p>\n Through his leadership and commitment to student success, Tsuchida has reinforced Wright State\u2019s reputation as a transfer-friendly institution.<\/span><\/p>\n Following the closure of the Modern College of Design, Hideo quickly coordinated a recruitment and outreach strategy with Lake Campus and the Provost\u2019s Office to bring support, guidance and academic pathways to displaced students. As a result of his proactive leadership, Wright State successfully enrolled 24 students, allowing them to continue their educational journeys.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cWhat distinguishes Hideo as an exceptional leader is his willingness to lead without seeking recognition,\u201d said Rachelle Dancy, associate director for transfer admissions and success. \u201cHe consistently works behind the scenes to transform the transfer experience, and his impact is felt every day by students, faculty, staff and partner institutions.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Earl M. Thompson, Jr.<\/p><\/div>\n Earl M. Thompson Jr.<\/strong> Earl M. Thompson Jr. has built a career at Wright State around being someone the community can count on, especially when it matters most.<\/span><\/p>\n As the supervisor of the 24\/7 Public Safety Service Center, Thompson leads the team that serves as the first point of contact during routine calls and emergency responses, ensuring that all situations are handled with urgency, accuracy and compassion.<\/span><\/p>\n He approaches each interaction as a chance to make a positive impact \u2014 whether talking to a worried parent or walking a lost visitor to their destination.<\/span> His steady, trusted guidance is especially valuable during high-pressure situations, where he supports his team with compassion and determination while delivering timely, excellent service.<\/span><\/p>\n Thompson\u2019s efforts contribute to the university\u2019s broader mission. His collaborations across campus improve communications and processes, helping everyone receive the assistance they need.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cEarl is a trusted leader whose contributions have made Wright State a safer and more supportive environment,\u201d said Kurt Holden, associate vice president and chief of police. \u201cHis impact is lasting, his presence is reassuring, and his service is truly exceptional.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Greg Jones<\/p><\/div>\n Greg Jones<\/strong> When Wright State was approaching an important institutional milestone, Greg Jones worked behind the scenes to help ensure that the university was ready.<\/p>\n During preparation for the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Comprehensive Visit, Jones was responsible for managing the extensive repository of institutional evidence supporting the university\u2019s Assurance Argument.<\/p>\n He reviewed, verified and formatted nearly 1,000 individual artifacts to ensure Wright State aligned with HLC requirements, then meticulously cataloged and uploaded each piece into the HLC\u2019s system.<\/p>\n Throughout the project, Jones was a pillar of quiet confidence. His calm composure, attention to detail and commitment to quality control helped ensure the assurance file was well-organized, accessible and comprehensive, contributing to a successful HLC site visit \u2014 and eventual reaffirmation of Wright State\u2019s accreditation through 2035\u20132036.<\/p>\n \u201cGreg\u2019s dedication throughout this critical institutional milestone represents a profound commitment to our university\u2019s long-term academic mission and operational standing,\u201d said Nick Christian, Ed.D., director of assessment and chief accreditation officer.<\/p>\n The Laboratory Animal Resources team plays an important role in supporting research across Wright State University.<\/p><\/div>\n Laboratory Animal Resources<\/strong><\/p>\n By providing expertise, unwavering support and careful coordination, Laboratory Animal Resources (LAR) helps make groundbreaking research at Wright State possible.<\/p>\n Working closely with departments across campus, LAR is an integral partner in supporting researchers and advancing the university\u2019s research mission.<\/p>\n The time-sensitive, highly regulated nature of their work leaves no room for error, making LAR\u2019s ability to work as a unified team essential. The team accommodates researchers\u2019 needs with a high level of coordination, flexibility and commitment to meeting scientific objectives while upholding animal welfare standards.<\/p>\n Outside of the lab, the unit\u2019s impact benefits the entire university. Their commitment to teaching students, faculty and staff about animal care, research procedures and regulatory compliance helps expand research across campus, strengthen the university\u2019s ability to secure external funding and prepare students for careers in science.<\/p>\n \u201cThe success of Wright State\u2019s research enterprise depends on strong partnerships, and LAR exemplifies the very best of collaborative excellence,\u201d said Subhashini Ganapathy, Ph.D., vice provost for research and innovation and dean of graduate programs.<\/p>\n Dayton Street Medicine, a collaboration between the Boonshoft School of Medicine, Premier Health and dozens of service organizations, provides compassionate, trauma-informed care to people experiencing homelessness and other barriers to healthcare.<\/p><\/div>\n Dayton Street Medicine<\/strong><\/p>\n Dayton Street Medicine<\/a> provides compassionate, trauma-informed primary care through a collaboration with Premier Health, the Dayton Dream Center and dozens of medical and public health students, resident physicians and fellows whose learning and service are central to this work.<\/span><\/p>\n The collaboration also includes faculty members, peer support counselors and community leaders from more than a dozen service organizations, including Dayton Fire and Miami Valley Housing Opportunities.<\/span><\/p>\n Together, they are working to make healthcare more accessible for people experiencing homelessness, extreme poverty and addiction.<\/span><\/p>\n In its first 12 months, the street medicine team served over 300 individuals, providing 448 clinical visits and 313 health screenings. And the work is growing. Dayton Street Medicine has added a rural location and plans to start backpack-based outreach across Miami Valley neighborhoods.<\/span><\/p>\n The program is led by Anna Squibb, M.D., Sydney Silverstein, Ph.D., Marietta Orlowski, Ph.D., Laurie Bankston, M.D., and Program Coordinator Elizabeth Barnett.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cDayton Street Medicine has changed the lives of those it serves and the lives of those who serve,\u201d said Demingo Hill, a Boonshoft School of Medicine peer supporter who nominated the program.<\/span><\/p>\n Kevin Nedberg<\/p><\/div>\n Kevin Nedberg<\/strong> Once a year, Kevin Nedberg leads a team of students and professionals in transforming the Creative Arts Center into something extraordinary, filling every corner with lights and art as over 300 students perform across theatre, music, dance, film and visual arts. His production expertise turns the building into a vibrant showcase of student designers that raises scholarship funds.<\/p>\n It\u2019s ArtsGala<\/a>, one of the most visible examples of Nedberg\u2019s impact.<\/span><\/p>\n Though his primary responsibilities are in theatre, Nedberg\u2019s influence extends throughout the School of Fine and Performing Arts, where he develops creative solutions and supports colleagues wherever needed. During a maintenance emergency, his strategic coordination of materials and resources kept operations running smoothly.<\/span><\/p>\n He\u2019s equally committed to mentoring students, providing them with hands-on experience in technical production, event management and creative problem-solving.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cKevin consistently demonstrates the creativity, courage and forward-thinking leadership that embody the innovative spirit upon which Wright State University was founded,\u201d said Chair Steven Aldredge.<\/span><\/p>\n Gretchen Rentz<\/p><\/div>\n Gretchen Rentz<\/strong> When Lake Campus students need a place to pause, decompress and take care of their mental health, they have somewhere to go: the Zen Den. It exists thanks to Gretchen Rentz.<\/span><\/p>\n It\u2019s one example of her tireless advocacy for student wellness, including expanding resources through community and campus partnerships, collaborating with Counseling and Wellness staff and providing additional counseling services at the Lake Campus.<\/span><\/p>\n Rentz understands that student success is about more than academics and ensures students have the support and sense of belonging to thrive inside and outside the classroom.<\/span><\/p>\n She puts students at the center of everything she does \u2014 whether she\u2019s helping with advising, resolving an enrollment issue or simply being a trusted person students can turn to.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cGretchen makes Wright State a better place through her commitment to students, her colleagues and the university community,\u201d said Andrea Faber, Ph.D., vice provost and chief administrator. \u201cHer impact is seen not only in the programs and initiatives she leads, but also in the countless individual students and employees who have benefited from her compassion, advocacy and leadership.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Sara Baker<\/p><\/div>\n Sara Baker<\/strong> Time and again, Sara Baker creates spaces where students can feel welcome, be supported and build the skills needed to keep going.<\/span><\/p>\n She understands that student success extends beyond academics and that mental, emotional and social well-being are just as critical to whether a student persists and thrives.<\/span><\/p>\n Working with campus partners and student organizations, Baker has expanded the reach and impact of health and wellness initiatives, integrating support services throughout the student experience.<\/span><\/p>\n Last year alone, she facilitated more than 50 health and wellness activities, helping them develop the resilience and coping skills to navigate personal and academic challenges. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cStudents know they have an advocate in Sara,\u201d said Rachelle Dancy, associate director for transfer admission and success. \u201cSara is someone who listens, cares and takes action to improve their college experience.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" A select group of staff members will be honored with the 2026 President\u2019s Awards for Excellence, recognizing excellence in human relations, leadership, service, performance, innovation and student success. Continue reading Excellence in<\/span> Human<\/span> Relations<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nAdministrative Support Coordinator, Teacher Education<\/a><\/span>
\nCollege of Health, Education and Human Services<\/span><\/a><\/p>\nExcellence in<\/span> Leadership<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nDirector, Articulation, Transfer and Institutional Partnerships<\/span>
\nTransfer Center<\/span><\/a><\/p>\nExcellence in Service<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nPublic Safety Dispatch Supervisor<\/span>
\nDivision of Campus Safety<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nOutstanding Performance<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nCatalog and Authority Control Librarian
\nLibrary Collection Services<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/webapp2.wright.edu\/web1\/newsroom\/files\/2026\/09\/Laboratory-Animal-Resources-PAFE__web-508x327.jpg\")
<\/a>Outstanding Unit<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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<\/a>Outstanding Collaborative Unit<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Spirit of Innovation Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nStaff Technical Director<\/span>
\nSchool of Fine and Performing Arts<\/a>, College of Liberal Arts<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSpirit of Wright State University Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/webapp2.wright.edu\/web1\/newsroom\/files\/2026\/09\/Gretchen-Rentz-2026-200x300.png\")
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\n<\/span>Director of Student Affairs<\/span>
\nLake Campus<\/span><\/a><\/p>\nStudent Success Champion<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\n<\/span>Wellness and Health Program Manager<\/span>
\nCounseling and Wellness Services<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n