Muskingum News

Muskingum University announced the honorees of the 2025 Faculty Awards during the annual Celebration of Excellence ceremony on Friday, April 11.

Muskingum’s faculty awards were first bestowed in 1895 to recognize exceptional merit. Faculty members are nominated by their peers, and the honorees are selected by the prior year’s award recipients.

“Excellence has been a founding principle since Muskingum was established in 1837, and it remains the inspiration behind this tradition of publicly recognizing our community members’ exceptional achievements,” said President Susan S. Hasseler.

Associate Professor of Business Kristine Pray received the William Oxley Thompson Award for Excellence in Teaching, named for the Muskingum graduate who became President of Miami University of Ohio and The Ohio State University. Prof. Pray consistently demonstrates a commitment to fostering a learning environment where all students feel supported and empowered to succeed. Her colleagues recognize the creative, hands-on teaching and personalized teaching practices that help students connect theory to practice and gain applied skills.

Dr. Jason Kehrberg, Assistant Professor of Political Science and Department Chair, was honored with the William Rainey Harper Award for Outstanding Scholarship, named for the Muskingum graduate and New Concord native who founded the University of Chicago. Dr. Kehrberg has published extensively with 19 journal articles to his name, including works co-authored with students, demonstrating a strong commitment to enriching the academic experience beyond the classroom. His work is not only highly respected but also widely cited, reflecting his influence within the field and the broader academic community. 

Assistant Professor of Economics Dr. Arjun Sondhi received the Cora I. Orr Faculty Service Award. The award is named in honor of Professor Orr for her expansive service to Muskingum as a language and psychology instructor, counselor, and student-centered Dean of Women. Dr. Sondhi consistently goes above and beyond, not only as the lead advisor for multiple student organizations but also through his active involvement in initiatives that foster student engagement, professional growth, and a sense of community. His contributions extend far beyond the classroom, with significant roles in campus committees, transformative study abroad programs, and mentorship for student competitions. In addition to these efforts, his active participation in campus life, from attending athletic events to recruiting future students, showcases a deep commitment to the University's success and student development. 

“I am honored to recognize faculty for their scholarship, teaching, and service,” said Provost Jennifer Dugan. “The many ways they share their gifts have a powerful impact on our students, our University, and our community.”