Congratulations to the 2025 Thunderbird Award Winners
Published: April 22, 2025 | Read Time: 22 minutes
The 75th annual Thunderbird Awards Ceremony was held on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Southern Utah University, continuing the tradition of recognizing outstanding T-Birds. Finalists were nominated by faculty, staff, and students and chosen by various committees, including the Staff Association, Faculty Senate, Student Association, community members, President’s Cabinet, and other administrative leadership groups.
2025 Thunderbird Award Winners
Board of Trustees Faculty Award of Excellence: Ty Redd
Board of Trustees Staff Award of Excellence: Matt Nickerson
Carmen Rose Hepworth Award: Alana Benson
25-year coach and educator Alana Benson has long inspired Parowan High School students to achieve their goals and dreams. The Kanab High graduate starred at SUU in basketball and track and field during her time as a student. “I will be forever grateful to the professors who helped me see my full potential,” she said. “Their belief in me ignited my passion for wanting to teach kids.”
Benson began her first year teaching physical education and language arts and was named head volleyball, basketball, and track and field coach. “I believe in kids, and it was always important to me to cheer for them and instill passion to dream big!” Said Benson.
As PHS athletic director, Benson was elected President of the Utah Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association and is a six-time Region 13 2A Basketball Coach of the Year. She is an SUU Coaching Factory inductee, has earned a UIAAA Distinguished Service Award, and served three terms on the ADEC board. She cherishes being inducted into the UIAAA Hall of Fame.
Distinguished Educator Award: Jamie Hamblin
Dr. Jamie Hamblin’s dedication to student success is evident through her engaging, hands-on Elementary Education program. Dr. Hamblin fosters positive relationships with students, ensuring their growth both as learners and future teachers. She continuously explores and integrates effective teaching methods, reflecting on her practices to improve. Her unwavering commitment to experiential education and professional development has greatly impacted the success of SUU students. Dr. Hamblin’s passion and personal approach shape future educators, making her a truly exceptional educator and mentor.
Distinguished Educator Award: Laureen Graves
Dr. Laureen Graves is a dedicated educator and Field Services Director at Southern Utah University, where she also serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Teacher Education. With a passion for experiential learning, she bridges the gap between theory and practice by coordinating student teaching placements, mentoring pre-service teachers, and fostering real-world engagement in her courses. Lauren is committed to integrating innovative teaching methods and culturally responsive practices to prepare future educators for diverse classroom environments. An active participant in professional development, she frequently presents at conferences and collaborates with colleagues to enhance teacher preparation programs. Through her leadership, reflective teaching, and commitment to inclusivity, Dr. Graves continues to inspire and support the next generation of educators.
Distinguished Educator Award: Corey Twitchell
Dr. Corey Twitchell is an Associate Professor of German and Holocaust Studies at Southern Utah University, where he teaches language, literature, and cultural studies. With over two decades of experience in foreign language education and a deep commitment to student success, Dr. Twitchell employs experiential learning, innovative pedagogical strategies, and interdisciplinary approaches to foster critical thinking and ethical engagement. His courses in German language and Holocaust Studies emphasize historical context, narrative analysis, and real-world application, guiding students in developing a nuanced understanding of cultural narratives and human dignity. An advocate for professional development, he actively engages in scholarly discourse through research, conference presentations, and specialized training, including his participation in workshops organized by the Holocaust Education Foundation. Dr. Twitchell’s dedication to fostering intellectual curiosity and interactive learning environments has earned him recognition as an outstanding educator and mentor.
Distinguished Faculty Service Award: Shalini Kesar
Dr. Shalini Kesar is recognized for her outstanding service to SUU and the larger community in southern Utah. During her 18 years at SUU, Dr. Kesar’s outreach projects have led to creating a pipeline for cybersecurity within K-12 in southern Utah and have provided numerous opportunities for students in the region. In 2024, Dr. Kesar received a Utah Talent Ready Grant for $400,800, in which she collaborates with industries and includes SUU cybersecurity students. Dr. Kesar’s outreach includes tapping into the rural, remote and intergenerational poverty regions. Dr. Kesar combines her talent and vision to provide a learning platform for current and potential SUU students that goes beyond the scope of her position at the university, and that empowers current and future students to thrive in the high-demand cybersecurity field.
Employee Commitment to Access and Belonging Award: Matt Mckenzie
Matt McKenzie serves as the Senior Director of Southern Utah University's Center for Teaching Innovation (CTI), where his visionary leadership has transformed educational accessibility across campus. Recognized for his exceptional commitment to fostering belonging, Mckenzie has pioneered initiatives that break down barriers and amplify diverse voices in higher education.
Under Mckenzie's guidance, CTI has revolutionized online learning environments to ensure they are accessible to all students, regardless of background or ability. His research on teacher agency in providing accommodations directly informs his practical work in creating inclusive digital spaces. Mckenzie's revision of SUU's Distance Education policy is a testament to his dedication to institutional change that promotes equity.
Mckenzie's approach to leadership exemplifies his commitment to inclusion, creating a workplace where every team member feels valued and heard. Colleagues praise his supervisory methods, which empower individuals while building cohesive teams. His outreach extends beyond campus through meaningful community engagement, including his work with the Centralia Library Board and as an Assistant Scoutmaster.
Mckenzie continually champions accessible education through his research on asynchronous learning, accessibility, and distance education policy, ensuring that innovation at SUU serves all learners equitably.
Employee Personality of the Year Award: Kol Gibson
Kol Gibson is the embodiment of positivity and joy at SUU. Known for his infectious energy, kind heart, and unique sense of humor, Gibson effortlessly brings people together with his charm and quirky personality. Whether through a perfectly timed one-liner or his unforgettable floral print overalls and jacket, Gibson has a knack for making everyone feel included and at ease. His style is as distinctive as his personality, and his smile and laughter brighten up any room.
A true champion for others, Gibson is a constant source of encouragement and cheer on campus. His ability to lift spirits and create a welcoming atmosphere makes him a beloved figure at SUU. Gibson’s genuine kindness, enthusiasm, and zest for life are evident in everything he does. He’s the person everyone can count on to bring a smile to their face, and his positive influence makes campus life more exciting and fun for everyone he meets.
Faculty Distinguished Scholarly or Creative Activity Award: Hayden Coombs
Dr. Hayden Coombs joined the Department of Communication as the Journalism Program Director in 2016, and he was appointed Assistant Professor of Sports Communication in 2022. After a stint in collegiate athletic administration, Dr. Coombs realized that his passion was teaching, rather than administration. Dr. Coombs’s research activities focus on athlete identity and social dynamics, crisis communication in sports, and institutional inequities in athletics. His latest publications include numerous journal articles, encyclopedia entries, two book chapters, and a textbook. Besides serving as Editor-in-Chief for the Utah Journal of Communication (SUU Press), he also enjoys writing poetry and short stories. Dr. Coombs regularly appears as a sports management expert on local television, and his scholarship has been presented at national and international conferences.
Faculty Distinguished Scholarly or Creative Activity Award: William Davis
Completing his fifth year as professor in the Department of Teacher Education, Dr. William Davis’s scholarly activity portrays a perfect example of a dynamic research mentorship opportunity that reflects the best of what Southern Utah University has to offer undergraduate students. His article “‘I think culture has so many different pieces’: A duo ethnographic reflection on teaching cultural knowledge in second language classrooms” was recently published in the International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism and co-authored by SUU alumna Jiazhen Yan, an undergraduate student at the time of writing. The journal has an acceptance rate of 13% and a Q1 ranking in both Education and Linguistics and Language. The research project began as the subject of an independent study course and blossomed into a collaboration with several other SUU faculty and students. Various aspects of the project have been published in journals and presented at prestigious conferences such as the American Educational Research Association Annual Meeting. Despite the remarkable scholarly contributions of this project, the greatest import of this work to Dr. Davis was the research mentorship opportunity it provided.
Faculty Distinguished Scholarly or Creative Activity Award: Matt Barton
According to an entry in the T-Bird Nation Blog, Dr. Matthew Barton’s students’ “enthusiasm motivates [him] to work hard to challenge them and help them grow.” An SUU alumni, Dr. Barton has been teaching at SUU since 2001, and he has been serving as department chair of the Department of Communication since 2019. He particularly appreciates collaborative research, a “valuable commodity” in his discipline. Dr. Barton’s book “Persuasive Attack: Threatening Reputations in Public Discourse,” co-authored with Dr. William Benoit and fellow Department of Communication faculty member Dr. Kevin Stein, was published in 2024 by Peter Lang, an international publisher with headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland. Dr. Barton’s recent scholarly activity also includes several peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and a book chapter in press.
Female Athlete of the Year Award: Niya Randolph
Niya Randolph is a standout all-around gymnast for the Flippin’ Birds who has established herself as one of the premier athletes in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation (MPSF). Her exceptional talent and incredible performance have earned her back-to-back MPSF Gymnast of the Year honors.
During the 2025 season, Randolph showcased her dominance across all four events, leading the Flippin’ Birds to a historic third straight conference championship. Her consistent performances on vault, bars, beam, and floor have earned her multiple First-Team All-MPSF selections. Randolph put together an incredible 9.925 floor routine in the MPSF Conference Championship meet, helping the team to a come-from-behind victory.
With her impressive accolades and unwavering work ethic, Niya Randolph continues to raise the bar for Southern Utah gymnastics.
Georgia Beth Thompson Service Award: Amy Adams
Amy Adams has shown unwavering dedication to volunteerism both on campus and in the surrounding community. As an active member of the Community Engagement Center (CEC) at Southern Utah University, she has given her time and energy to numerous service projects, making a meaningful impact on many lives.
A sophomore at SUU, Adams has demonstrated exceptional commitment to service, particularly in her role as a service leader for the Storytime program, where she has positively impacted young children. Despite juggling three jobs and a full academic schedule, Adams is always the first to volunteer whenever help is needed. Her kindness, generosity, and strong work ethic inspire those around her.
Gerald R. Sherratt Friend of SUU Award: Ree Zaphiropoulos
Lifetime Achievement Award: Ross Murdock
Ross Murdock has been instrumental on campus for over 21 years, dedicating his time and passion to campus horticulture, creating a beautiful and welcoming environment. His unmatched work ethic and commitment to excellence are evident in the countless hours he spends tending to thousands of greenhouse plants, maintaining over 12,000 square feet of planted beds, and ensuring every potted basket is brilliant. No task is too small—his keen eye for detail and hands-on approach set the standard for those around him.
A mentor to hundreds of student employees, Murdock leads with patience, kindness, and a willingness to teach. He never asks his team to do anything he wouldn’t do himself, fostering a culture of respect and hard work. His knowledge extends beyond horticulture, making him a trusted source of wisdom on leadership, management, and life.
Beyond his work on campus, Murdock shares his expertise through community horticulture and master gardening classes, Festival of Excellence presentations, and one-on-one guidance. His impact reaches far beyond the gardens he cultivates—he has nurtured a legacy of mentorship, friendship, and service. His humility, humor, and genuine care for others make him an invaluable colleague and a respected member of the SUU community.
Male Athlete of the Year Award: Targhee Lambson
Targhee Lambson, a standout running back for SUU, solidified his place as one of the top players in the nation and in SUU History by earning FCS All-American honors from both the Associated Press and Stats Perform. His record-setting season also earned him the United Athletic Conference (UAC) Offensive Player of the Year award and a spot on the UAC First Team All-Conference.
Lambson led the FCS in rushing with an astonishing 1,922 yards and ranked second nationally with 23 rushing touchdowns. His efforts not only propelled the Thunderbirds but also rewrote the SUU record books. He now holds single-season program records for rushing yards (1,922), carries (320), and total points scored (142), while tying the school record for rushing touchdowns in a season.
Recognized as one of the nation’s premier offensive players, Lambson has been named a finalist for the prestigious Walter Payton Award, the FCS’s equivalent of the Heisman Trophy. He will travel to Frisco, Texas, for the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet on January 4, 2025.
With his relentless work ethic and exceptional talent, Targhee Lambson’s legacy at Southern Utah is firmly established, marking his season as one of the most memorable in Thunderbird football history.
Outstanding Classified Staff Award: Andrea Masterson
Andrea Masterson has dedicated nearly 30 years of her life to Southern Utah University, and throughout her tenure, she has exemplified unwavering commitment, professionalism, and enthusiasm for her work. As a vital member of the cashier’s office, Masterson plays an essential role in supporting students, faculty, and staff by ensuring smooth financial operations. Her attention to detail and deep understanding of her responsibilities contribute to the success of the entire university.
Masterson's sincere interest in everyone at SUU—students, faculty, and fellow staff members—shines through in everything she does. She goes above and beyond to assist others, always offering a helping hand with a positive attitude. Her current knowledge of her field and her high level of professionalism make her a respected leader in her area, and her ability to work collaboratively across the university is a testament to her dedication to SUU.
With almost three decades of service, Masterson’s passion for the university and its community has made a lasting impact on everyone who has had the pleasure of working with her.
Outstanding Educator Award: Matthew Newsom
Dr. Matthew Newsom is an exceptional educator known for his student engagement and mentorship. He utilizes high-impact learning practices, such as ethnographic research and study abroad opportunities in Belize, allowing students to apply their studies in real-world settings. Dr. Newsom fosters student success through personalized mentorship, helping students secure placements in prestigious graduate programs. He continuously reflects on and refines his teaching methods, creating an intellectually challenging yet supportive environment. His dedication to students' personal and academic growth, combined with his commitment to professional development, makes Dr. Newsom an essential part of the SUU community.
Outstanding Professional Staff Award: Lauri Garfield
Lauri Garfield is the unsung hero of SUU, whose dedication and hard work ensure the smooth operation of campus life. As a vital member of the university staff, Garfield consistently goes above and beyond, often working overtime to make sure that no detail is overlooked. Whether it's coordinating student events, department lunches, or staff activities, Garfield’s tireless efforts keep everything running seamlessly, often behind the scenes. Without her, many of the campus functions we take for granted would simply not happen.
Garfield’s extraordinary enthusiasm for her work is matched by her sincere interest in students, faculty, and staff. She is deeply committed to ensuring the success of everyone at SUU, from organizing campus events to offering a helping hand whenever needed. Her professionalism, current knowledge, and ability to work well with colleagues across campus make her a standout employee.
Known as the “glue” that holds campus together, Garfield’s contributions are immeasurable. She exemplifies dedication, hard work, and a passion for her role at SUU.
R. Kenneth Benson Award: Colter Bennett
Colter Bennett is a distinguished student leader who has consistently demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the student experience. Maintaining a high cumulative GPA, Bennett balanced his academic success with significant leadership roles. He served as Tradition Chair on the Student Alumni Association and later as Student Body President, where he worked diligently to amplify the student voice. His ability to engage with trustees, administrators, and legislators showcased his dedication to improving campus life and strengthening SUU's community.
Staff Community and Culture Award: Heather Ogden
Heather Ogden is the epitome of community-building at SUU. As the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Ogden has a unique ability to connect individuals across various departments, disciplines, and divisions, creating a collaborative atmosphere where everyone feels valued and included. Her leadership is centered on fostering strong communication and cooperation, ensuring that both students and staff work together towards common goals.
Ogden's approach to leadership goes beyond the typical management role; she builds bridges between teams, encourages open dialogue, and cultivates a positive, welcoming campus culture. Her empathy, understanding, and support for those she works with have earned her respect and admiration across campus. Whether she’s supporting students through challenges or guiding staff through complex initiatives, Ogden ensures that every voice is heard and every individual feels like an integral part of the SUU community. Her commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and creating a sense of belonging has had a lasting impact on the SUU campus.
Staff Distinguished Initiative or Activity Award: Mackenzie Jenkins
Mackenzie Jenkins has made a significant impact at SUU through her leadership, dedication, and organizational expertise. In the 2024-25 academic year, Jenkins oversaw the largest cohort of the Professional Internship Program, managing 95 interns. She developed and implemented a comprehensive professional development curriculum, providing training for both interns and their mentors. Her ability to prioritize building individual relationships with each intern was key to their success, and her efforts were frequently praised by both students and faculty. This outstanding work earned her a well-deserved award from the Utah Association of Colleges and Employers.
In addition to her success with the internship program, Jenkins played a pivotal role in the development and leadership of the SUU Career Academy. She skillfully navigated a year of changes, securing valuable presenters and expanding the program’s reach. Her recent partnership with SUU Human Resources to extend the program to all student employees has provided essential professional skills workshops to help students enhance their post-graduation opportunities.
Jenkins’ dedication to student success, her exceptional organizational skills, and her ability to foster meaningful connections make her an invaluable asset to SUU. Her work continues to have a lasting impact on the professional growth of students, positioning them for success after graduation.
Staff Mentorship Award: Famke Halma
Famke Halma is a dedicated and compassionate mentor who has made a profound impact at SUU through her work in the Financial Wellness Center. Recognized for her unwavering commitment to student success, Halma excels in providing both financial guidance and personal support to those she serves. Her ability to make students feel welcome and valued is evident in her tireless efforts to help them navigate financial challenges.
Beyond simply offering advice, Halma goes above and beyond to ensure students gain confidence in their financial decisions, offering consistent check-ins and follow-ups. Her approachable and positive demeanor makes her a trusted resource for students seeking guidance. Whether addressing complex financial questions or offering emotional support, Halma is a mentor who genuinely cares about the well-being of those around her.
Through her moral, social, and intellectual support, Halma has helped countless students achieve greater financial stability and personal growth. Her influence extends beyond the walls of the Financial Wellness Center, making a lasting difference in the lives of those she mentors.
Sterling R. Church Student Involvement Award: Maddy Steffensen
Maddy Steffensen has been a dedicated leader who has enhanced student involvement at Southern Utah University. As the president of the Involvement Captain program within the Student Involvement and Leadership Office, Steffensen demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive campus environment. Despite stepping into her role under challenging circumstances, she excelled in collaborating with program directors to expand opportunities for student engagement. Her efforts have ensured that every SUU student can find a place to connect and belong. Steffensen's remarkable contributions have left a lasting impact on both her organization and the campus community.
Student Artist of the Year Award: Valeriia Aksakova
Valeriia Aksakova, an international student from Russia, is pursuing a double major bachelor’s degree of Arts in Piano Performance and Criminal Justice. She began her piano studies at the age of four, continuing her education at the Central Music School of the Tchaikovsky Conservatory in Moscow. Valeriia has participated in masterclasses with distinguished pianists such as Jacques Rouvier, Tomer Lev, and Oxana Yablonskaya.
Aksakova has earned awards in international competitions held in France, Estonia, Latvia, Russia, and Spain. In the Fall semester of 2024, she became a finalist of the Southwest Symphony Youth Competition performing Mendelssohn’s I Piano Concerto. She is studying under Dr. Christian Bohnenstengel.
Student Commitment to Access & Belonging Award: Paige Iverson
Paige Iverson is a remarkable student who is dedicated to boosting access and belonging at SUU. Through her longtime work with clubs, her position as the SUUSA VP of Belonging and Engagement, her leadership on the Belonging and Engagement Student Council, and her role as a Financial Wellness Peer Coach, Iverson has worked tirelessly to ensure that all SUU students feel welcome, valued, and heard. She has supported introverts, neurodivergent students, non-traditional students, and many others who haven't found a place to belong, being a friendly, welcoming person who is there to catch them when they need a safe space. In her classes, she supports classmates wrestling with life issues that extend beyond academics, and her social and ethical commitments are fully matched by her own scholarly pursuits. As a communications and anthropology dual major, she has been consistently named to the dean’s list. At the 2024 American Anthropological Association, Iverson was an invited participant in a roundtable session dedicated to campus belongingness. In what has been a challenging year, she has climbed difficult roads and held challenging conversations, and she has always done what is best for students first. She is willing to go the extra mile for the one.
Student Organization of the Year Award: Swing Club
The Swing Dance Club is a vibrant club that has consistently provided a welcoming and energetic space for students and community members alike, with over 400 participants gathering weekly to connect, build friendships, and dance. The Swing Club exemplifies the spirit of meaningful campus involvement and community engagement. Their dedication to fostering social connections and enriching the student experience has made a lasting impact at SUU.
Student Personality of the Year Award: Jeremy Walker
Jeremy Walker is a senior majoring in Aviation Management. From Winnemucca, Nevada, Walker has spent the last four years dedicating his time and talents to SUU. During all four years of his time at SUU, Walker has worked as a Student AV Technician. His campus leadership experience is extensive, serving three years as a Presidential Ambassador and 2 years in the Student Alumni Association. Outside of his work as a distinguished campus leader, Jeremy has proven himself as an individual who values relationships. He can always make someone laugh, while at the same time listening intently to the problems they are facing. Students trust Walker and often come to him for advice on school, work, relationships, and life. He has become a well-known face among the Student Body and is revered as a talented leader, kind individual, and loving friend.
University Department of the Year Award: Information Technology
The Information Technology (IT) Department at Southern Utah University exemplifies excellence through its commitment to service, innovation, and teamwork. Despite limited resources, the IT team consistently rises to the challenge, ensuring that the technological needs of students, faculty, and staff are met with efficiency and expertise.
A defining strength of the IT Department is its unwavering dedication to customer service. Every team member takes ownership of challenges, demonstrating a proactive approach to problem-solving. Whether assisting a student with a critical tech issue or implementing university-wide systems, their focus remains on enhancing the SUU experience.
Beyond technical expertise, the IT Department fosters a culture of collaboration, with leadership working alongside staff to accomplish the university’s mission. Their ability to do more with less, while maintaining a high standard of service, is a testament to their dedication and teamwork.
Visionary Impact Award: Kenten Pope
Executive Events Manager Kenten Pope has dedicated thousands of hours to creating experiences that preserve the institution’s unique legacy while also inspiring students, employees, alumni, and community members to think big and build the next 75 years of SUU traditions together.
In his seven years at SUU, Pope has worked tirelessly -- often quietly and behind the scenes -- to create memorable moments on campus. Whether it’s Forever Red, a concert, employee appreciation events, Tradition Keeper program activities, commencement, or the Opening Ceremonies of the Utah Summer Games (to name just a few) - these events build a shared sense of community that define the SUU experience and bind us all as Thunderbirds for life.
While Pope’s influence on the SUU experience may stay under the radar, its impact is felt by everyone who steps foot on campus, whether they recognize it or not. From their first day to their walk across the commencement stage, Pope’s work plays a vital role in their journey.
Pope’s incredible creativity and keen attention to detail ensures that every element of an event, down to the branding on a water bottle or the music playing over the speakers, creates an unforgettable experience that connects people to the University and communicates the SUU story. He is constantly thinking about what new, different or exciting enhancements can be made to an event and then uses his imagination and ingenuity to bring these ideas to fruition.
As a staff member at SUU, Pope serves as an advisor to the Student Alumni Association and mentors dozens of students in their campus leadership and involvement. He has also served as a board member for the Staff Association and helped to expand opportunities to recognize employees for their outstanding work. He also sits on several committees to expand and strengthen the campus experience.
Pope’s dedication, commitment, and talent for bringing people together are at the very heart of his work and make an indelible impact on the University.
Valedictorians:
- Beverley Taylor Sorenson College of Education and Human Development: Anya N. Johnson
- College of Health Sciences: Madyson Hacking
- Dixie L. Leavitt School of Business: Annalee MacArthur
- Walter Maxwell Gibson College of Natural Sciences: Jaren Meikle
- College of Engineering & Computational Sciences: Chase Christensen
- College of Performing & Visual Arts: Megan Taylor
- College of Humanities & Social Sciences: Makaylee Cole
- University Valedictorian: Kimberly Winward
Tags: Campus Tradition and History Student FacStaff Alumni Community Academic
Contact Information:
Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu