We’re proud to honor the following USEA award winners who have displayed passion and dedication for STEM disciplines.
USEA award criteria and eligibility
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2025 Winners
USEA President's Award
Dr. Jacqueline Ekeoba, teachHOUSTON
Dr. Jacqueline Ekeoba, Master Teacher for the teachHOUSTON program at the University of Houston, has been a steadfast force for connection, collaboration, and change within the USEA community. The President’s Award is given to someone whose impact is wide-reaching, whose service to USEA is undeniable, and whose dedication goes well beyond the surface. A natural leader who elevates everyone around her, her service has left an enduring mark on the organization.
Dr. Ekeoba was part of the inaugural cohort of the teachHOUSTON program during its inception in 2007. There, she led the creation of the teachHOUSTON Student Society. She has taken this spark of leadership and let it grow, volunteering her time and expertise on countless working groups and committees, including the teachHOUSTON Alumni Association, USEA Leadership Development Committee, USEA Strategic Planning Committee, UTeach Conference Planning Committee, and the USEA Executive Board, to name a few.
No matter the audience, Dr. Ekeoba approaches each opportunity with vision and heart. In the classroom, she is an engaging educator, described as “bold and brilliant.” Dr. Ekeoba’s presence reminds her students what it means to reach higher, push boundaries, and approach each challenge with openness and a commitment to amplifying every voice.
As one colleague described, “There are leaders—and then there are multipliers. People who don’t just do the work, but bring out the best in everyone around them. People who think deeply, lead with heart, and raise the bar simply by being in the room.” Dr. Ekeoba is this and more, dedicated to guiding the future of STEM education both behind the scenes and in front of the USEA community.
USEA Special Award
Dr. Glenn Waddell, NevadaTeach
Dr. Glenn Waddell is a Master Teacher and co-Director of NevadaTeach at the University of Nevada, Reno. A perfect recipient of the USEA Special Award—which honors those who GO above and beyond the call of duty—Dr. Waddell is passionate and energetic, someone who doesn’t wait for direction but leads with initiative and vision.
Described as a “strong, steady, and imaginative” leader, Dr. Waddell is known as someone whose ideas, energy, and effort consistently exceed expectations. He has played a vital role on the UTeach Conference Planning Committee, where his insight and creativity have helped shape what the event has become today. His efforts during this year’s conference were monumental, and the experience would not have been the same for any attendee without his (and his students’) focus, dedication, and consistent positivity.
Much the same as he does within USEA, Dr. Waddell inspires growth and excellence in his students, ensuring that every effort reflects the very best of who they are and who they aspire to be. Dr. Waddell is a trusted mentor and, at every turn, demonstrates his commitment to innovation and curiosity. When asked about his favorite part of teaching, he shared, “I love the interactions with, and learning from, learners and students every day.”
Now and then, an individual comes along who doesn’t just show up—they shine. Dr. Waddell represents that spirit in action, serving as a catalyst for his students, his colleagues, and the greater STEM community.
Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award
Dr. Joshua Ellis, GeauxTeach
Dr. Joshua Ellis, co-Director of GeauxTeach at Louisiana State University, is a dedicated educator and researcher whose passion for teaching and learning shines through in every aspect of his work. With a thoughtful and collaborative approach, Dr. Ellis has played a vital role in shaping the GeauxTeach program and continues to make a meaningful impact on the broader STEM education community.
As a Master Teacher, Dr. Ellis is renowned for his engaging and effective teaching methods. He teaches courses such as Knowing and Learning and Classroom Interactions, where he models innovative strategies and fosters a supportive learning environment. Year after year, his students praise his ability to make complex theories accessible. As co-Director, Dr. Ellis plays a pivotal role in curriculum development, recruitment, and securing external funding. Colleagues note that he has been instrumental in strengthening the partnership between colleges at LSU.
Dr. Ellis has secured nearly $5 million in grants, including multiple Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarships from the National Science Foundation, to support his research in STEM education, teacher preparation, and technology integration. His work on integrated STEM education and reflective practices has significantly advanced the field, providing valuable insights into effective teaching strategies and teacher development.
Dr. Ellis’s contributions to STEM education have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Dean’s Teaching Showcase at Michigan Technological University and selection as a National Technology Leadership Initiative (NTLI) Finalist. His dedication to excellence in teaching, leadership, and research makes him a truly deserving recipient of the USEA Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award.
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Dr. Kate York, UTeach Dallas
Dr. Kate York, Master Teacher at the University of Texas at Dallas, exemplifies innovation, dedication, and leadership in STEM education. With over a decade of experience in teaching and curriculum development, she is deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and broadening participation in STEM by creating welcoming and engaging learning environments that inspire both students and future educators.
As a Master Teacher, Dr. York demonstrates a strong commitment to service and leadership in STEM education. She actively participates in community outreach, professional development for in-service teachers, and mentoring students. Her combined 11 years instructing a range of UTeach courses have been instrumental in creating teachers who graduate ready to build vibrant, inclusive STEM classrooms. Dr. York’s curriculum enhancements have broadened student engagement through global collaborations, and her work with informal science education partners statewide has developed STEM curricula that benefit both local and international communities. She has led over ten virtual exchange experiences with nine different countries, enhancing global education perspectives, encouraging cultural competency, and offering a truly amazing opportunity for her preservice teachers to grow their perspectives.
Dr. York’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. She serves as the project lead for the Charles Butt Scholars within UTeach Dallas and oversees the UTeach Dallas Ambassadors, who assist with program recruitment and marketing. Her extensive involvement in professional development and grant initiatives underscores her ongoing contributions to leadership and service within the UTeach Dallas program and the broader UTeach community.
Dr. York demonstrates a strong commitment to service and leadership in STEM education, and her passion is an essential ingredient in the success of both the UTeach Dallas program and the broader UTeach community.
Outstanding Staff Award
Dr. Anisha Campbell, Terrapin Teachers
Dr. Anisha Campbell is the Associate Director of Terrapin Teachers at the University of Maryland and a truly instrumental part of shaping the program's success. Her leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to service have allowed a supportive environment to flourish, offering a profoundly impactful experience for program staff and students.
Dr. Campbell’s leadership has been pivotal in elevating her UTeach program’s visibility and success. Among her most innovative initiatives is the Shared Master Teacher (SMT) model, in which high school teachers split their time between their schools and the university to teach Step 1 and Step 2 courses. This model not only creates a pipeline of prospective students interested in secondary STEM teaching careers but also provides undergraduates with authentic, real-world experiences. In addition, Dr. Campbell played an integral role in securing a $1 million endowment to support future secondary biology teachers and in implementing professional development workshops for local high school math and science educators.
Colleagues and peers describe Dr. Campbell as a fearless advocate, and her approach to leadership ensures that students feel consistently supported. Her open-door policy, the never-ending snack bowl in the student lounge, and countless other personalized touches have helped foster a uniquely strong sense of community. She has found and paid for tutors and assisted students in gaining access to scholarships. Through her thoughtful and intentional mentorship, Dr. Campbell has built meaningful relationships and knows every student in the program by name. She is a consistent force for good, committed to minimizing barriers for students and building long-lasting relationships.
Outstanding Alumni Award
Meghan DiBacco, teachHOUSTON alum
Meghan DiBacco, a graduate of the teachHOUSTON program at the University of Houston, is a dedicated high school physics teacher known for her commitment to inquiry-based instruction, inclusivity, and the real-world application of STEM education.
In the classroom, Meghan creates an engaging and inclusive learning environment where students thrive. She incorporates real-world examples into her physics curriculum to ignite students’ passion for science, engineering, and innovation. Her approach ensures that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also recognize their practical relevance.
Meghan is a dedicated leader in numerous STEM initiatives. She has collaborated with the Quantum for All project to support K–12 educators and students in exploring quantum concepts. As Faculty Sponsor for the CRyptonite FRC Robotics Team 624, she manages an award-winning team of over 60 members, coordinating efforts to build robots from scratch. Her involvement in professional organizations—including the Texas Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers (TSAAPT) and the Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT)—reflects her commitment to continuous learning and educational advancement. Meghan also serves as the inaugural co-chair of the USEA Alumni & Student Engagement Working Group.
Meghan has accepted the charge to create an inclusive learning environment for all learners. Her commitment to UTeach, her leadership, and her dedication to broadening engagement in STEM education make her a truly unique educator and deserving recipient of the USEA Outstanding Alumni Award.
2024
USEA Presidents Award
La Keisha Leonard, Teach North Texas
USEA Special Award
Dana Grosser-Clarkson, Terrapin Teachers
Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award
David Sparks, UTeach at Permian Basin
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Kelli Allen, UTeach Austin
Outstanding Staff Award
Aaron Koehler, UTeach Austin
Outstanding Alumni Award
Michelle Laskowski, GeauxTeach alum
2023
USEA Special Award
Elizabeth Goldberg, UTeach Dallas
Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award
Dr. David Sparks, UTeach at Permian Basin
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Dr. Jacqueline Ekeoba, teachHOUSTON
Outstanding Alumni Award
Preston Dozier, UTeach Dallas
2022
Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award
Emily Hennessy, UTeach Dallas
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Paige Evans, teachHOUSTON
Outstanding Staff Award
Michelle Lowry, UTeach Austin
Outstanding Faculty Scholar Award
Sherry Southerland, FSU-Teach
Outstanding Alumni Award
Alexander Eden, UTeach Boston
2021
USEA Special Award
Jennifer Smith, UTeach Austin
Tim Sears, UTRGV UTeach
Rachel George, CWU Teach STEM
Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award
Michael Odell, UTeach Tyler
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Katie Donaldson, UTeach Dallas
Outstanding Staff Award
Leah McAllister-Shields, teachHOUSTON
Outstanding Alumni Award
Spencer Martin, UTeach Austin
Carlos Perez, teachHOUSTON
2020
Special Award for Outstanding Contributions to STEM Education
Mariam Manuel, teachHOUSTON
Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award
Martha Day, SKyTeach
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Michael Ralph, STEMTeach KU
Outstanding Staff Award
Monica Yates, UTRGV UTeach
Outstanding Alumni Award
Kira Lowery, UTeach Austin
2019
USEA President's Award
Larry Abraham, UTeach Austin
Special Award for Outstanding Contributions to STEM Education
Ariel Taylor, UTeach Austin
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Shelly Rodriguez, UTeach Austin
Outstanding Staff Award
Erin Gonzales, UTeach Arlington
Outstanding Alumni Award
Amieé Himler, UTeach Dallas
2018
Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award
Dr. Greg Hale, UTeach Arlington
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Rico Tyler, SKyTeach
Outstanding Staff Award
Kim Distin, UTeach Dallas
Outstanding Alumni Award
Jennifer West, UTeach Arlington
2017
USEA President's Award
Carrie Culpepper
USEA Special Award
Tracy LaQuey Parker
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Pamela Powell, UTeach Austin
Outstanding Staff Award
Lindsey Robinson, University of West Georgia
Outstanding Faculty Scholar Award
Lisa Duffin, SKyTeach
Outstanding Alumni Award
Janice Trinidad, UTeach Austin
2016
Outstanding Faculty Award
Mark Daniels, UTeach Austin
Outstanding Master Teacher Award
Perri Segura, teachHOUSTON
Outstanding Alumni Award
William Kiker, UTeach Austin
