Southern Utah STEM Awards Celebrate Regional Excellence in Science and Technology

Published: May 06, 2025 | Author: SUU | Read Time: 2 minutes

Robyn Brown accepting her STEM Educator AwardSouthern Utah University (SUU) recently hosted the third annual Southern Utah STEM Awards, celebrating excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education across the region. This year's event recognized outstanding contributions from teachers and companies across a twelve-county region and was a collaborative effort between SUU, Utah Tech University, Dixie Technical College, and Southwest Technical College.

“The Southern Utah STEM Awards give the public a chance to recognize local educators who go above and beyond in STEM education,” said Dylan Kirklin, director of the SUU STEM Center for Teaching and Learning.” In just three years, more than 700 teachers have been nominated. I can’t wait to see the incredible nominations we receive next year.”

A total of 13 awards were presented to outstanding K–12 educators, college faculty, and a leading local business making a significant impact in STEM outreach. The K–12 educators also received $125 in classroom funding and a three-year membership to the Utah Science Teaching Association.

2025 Southern Utah STEM Award Winners

  • K–6 Science Educator of the Year: Michelle Crumm
  • K–6 Technology Educator of the Year: Robyn Brown
  • K–6 Engineering Educator of the Year: Ivan Amargo
  • K–6 Mathematics Educator of the Year: Mindy Jacobs
  • 7–12 Science Educator of the Year: Megan Liljenquist
  • 7–12 Technology Educator of the Year: Anthony Vick
  • 7–12 Engineering Educator of the Year: David Vick
  • 7–12 Mathematics Educator of the Year: Kim Arnold
  • SUU STEM Outreach Award: Fredric Govedich
  • Utah Tech STEM Outreach Award: Samuel Tobler
  • Dixie Tech STEM Outreach Award: Alfonso Gonzales
  • Southwest Tech STEM Outreach Award: Wade Esplin
  • STEM Outreach Business of the Year: TDS®

This annual event underscores the collective dedication of southern Utah's educational institutions and community to advancing STEM literacy and innovation throughout the region. Those looking to nominate their favorite STEM teacher can visit the SUU STEM Awards website. Nominations for next year’s award recipients will open in January of 2026.

About The SUU STEM Center

The SUU STEM Center for Teaching and Learning builds a better future for Utah by providing free high high-quality STEM experiences and instruction for all K-12 students in southern Utah by collaborating with the state, schools, businesses, and community.


Tags: Cedar City Community STEM Center STEM

Contact Information:

Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu