8/17/26

By FHSU University Marketing and Strategic Communications

HAYS, Kan. – Highlighting Fort Hays State University’s fall convocation last Wednesday was the presentation of faculty awards. Awards included the Faculty Member of the Year, John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor, the President’s Distinguished Scholar Award, and the Presidential Award.

The Faculty Member of the Year award was presented to Dr. Michael Gruenstaeudl, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences. Commerce Bank provided a $1,000 stipend for Gruenstaeudl in recognition of this honor.

Gruenstaeudl is a molecular biologist specializing in plant genome analysis. In the three years he has been at FHSU, Gruenstaeudl has secured more than $315,000 in competitive external funding, supporting high-impact research, scholarly publications, and presentations while providing valuable research opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students.

“His innovative Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) in Genetics engages students in genome sequencing research that addresses water quality challenges in Western Kansas, creating meaningful learning experiences with direct community impact,” said FHSU Provost Jill Arensdorf. “Faculty such as Michael ensure our students are prepared for the future.”

The faculty member of the year is selected from the past year’s recipients of faculty awards for teaching, scholarly activity, and service.

The 2025-26 award for scholarly activity went to Gruenstaeudl and Dr. Brooke Mann, Assistant Professor of Psychology. Outstanding service awards were presented to Jennifer Sauer, Librarian, and Hollie Marquess, Lecturer in History. Dr. David Schmidt, Assistant Professor of Informatics, and Jayme Goetz, Instructor of Mathematics, were recognized for outstanding teaching.

John Heinrichs Outstanding Undergraduate Research Mentor

Dr. Jessica Phelan, Assistant Professor of Health and Human Performance, was named the John Heinrichs Outstanding Research Mentor. The award is named after FHSU’s esteemed former colleague, Dr. John Heinrichs, who was active in all research areas.

This award recognizes faculty members’ commitment, time, and energy in promoting undergraduate research. All current faculty and unclassified staff members at levels comparable to academic faculty are eligible. The awardee’s home department is provided with $500 of budget funding to benefit the recipient.

Students have repeatedly commented on Phelan’s dedication to mentoring students.

“One such student indicates her open-door policy of mentoring far exceeds the requirements of the university and the department,” Arensdorf said. “Her leadership and mentorship have left a lasting impression on her students, providing value to the importance of research.”

President’s Distinguished Scholar Award

Dr. Brooke Moore, Professor of Advanced Education Programs, was announced as the 2026 President’s Distinguished Scholar. Moore is an exceptional scholar, educator, and researcher whose contributions to the field of special education have had a profound impact on both academic inquiry and practical application. Her research spans inclusive education, literacy interventions, teacher preparation, and cultural and linguistic diversity.

Moore will receive a $1,500 check at the President’s Distinguished Scholar program later in the academic year.

The President’s Distinguished Scholar Award was first conferred in 1989. The evaluation of each candidate for this honor is based on an analysis of their performance in research and creative activities, service, and instruction categories. Acceptable levels of performance must be demonstrated in service and instruction, with the primary focus of this award on research and creative activities.

This year, the highest honor at FHSU, the Presidential Award, was presented to the Office of Financial Assistance. The Presidential Award is not given annually; it is awarded when a person or unit deserves recognition.

Arensdorf pointed out that the office's role is crucial.

“Over the years, while we’ve all faced change and disruption, the financial assistance office and staff have had to navigate extraordinary challenges,” she said. “Shifting federal regulations and political landscapes have demanded constant resilience and adaptability, and they have met those demands with unwavering commitment and grace.”

“This award is a small symbol of our deep appreciation for their remarkable work and resilience.”