On Tuesday, April 8, Indiana State University’s Division of University Engagement celebrated several students, organizations, and leaders for their unwavering support of Indiana State and to recognize their extraordinary service to our campus and the greater Terre Haute community.
“I’d like to thank and congratulate the several distinguished award recipients that are deservingly recognized through our award ceremonies. Whether it be through civic engagement, hands-on experiential learning opportunities, or contributing to our local community, Indiana State’s Division of University Engagement prioritizes students have access to these opportunities; our students, staff, faculty, and community partners play an important role in making that happen,” said Vice President of University Engagement Dr. Nancy Rogers.
Congratulations to the following award recipients.
2025 President’s Award for Civic and Community Leadership: Stazia Kieffaber
This award embodies the highest ideals of Indiana State University and recognizes an individual committed to civic engagement, education, and leadership. Kieffaber has a distinguished service and academic excellence record, demonstrating global awareness and local impact. She was involved in international education initiatives, including a service-learning trip to Birr, Ireland, and teaching English at Anatolia Elementary School in Thessaloniki, Greece. She has actively contributed to numerous volunteer efforts, including the Gleaners Food Bank, Salvation Army, Donaghy Day, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. Notably, she spearheaded the planning and execution of the Indiana State University Mental Health Fair, connecting students with critical wellness resources. Her continued commitment to supporting food-insecure students through regular contributions to the Sycamore Pantry further exemplifies her compassion and sense of responsibility toward her peers.
In addition to her service and instructional roles, Ms. Kieffaber has held several key leadership positions, including peer mentor, coordinator, and head coordinator for Bridge Week, social ambassador team lead for Project Success, and coordinator for New Student Orientation and State Welcome programs. She has been recognized with numerous awards and scholarships, including the Richard G. Landini Outstanding Junior Award and the Project Success Junior and Senior Scholarships.
The 2025 Employer Champion Award: The Garrett Companies.
This award acknowledges an organization, company, or employer point of contact demonstrating commitment to helping Indiana State students develop career competencies and career-ready behaviors that will prepare them for the job search or entry into the professional workforce.
The Garrett Companies are willing to work with Indiana State by inviting students to their fall retreats, coming to campus to speak with classes, participating in mock interviews, and meeting with students at career fairs.
Indiana State University
Community School of the Arts
2025 Artist Innovation Award
Nancy Nichols-Pethick
Indiana State University
Office of Sustainability
2025 Outstanding Community Partnership
Tara Elmore-White Violet Center
Indiana State University
Center for Community Engagement
2025 Community Partner of the Year
Vigo County Public Library
Indiana State University
Career Center
2025 Career Readiness Advocate
Malea Crosby
Indiana State University
Center for Community Engagement
2025 OLLI Contributor of the Year
Vigo County History Center
Indiana State University
Student Employment Programs
2025 Supervisor of the Year
Xavier Cason
Indiana State University
Student Employment Programs
2025 Student Employee of the Year
Kalene Dean
Indiana State University
Student Employment Programs
2025 Graduate Assistant of the Year
Michael Bennie
Indiana State University Student Employment Programs
2025 Student Team of the Year
The Writing Center
Indiana State University
Career Center
2025 Entrepreneurship Leader
Alicia Jay