The Barney School of Business is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Faculty and Staff Awards, honoring outstanding contributions in teaching innovation, scholarship, service, and overall excellence during the 2024–25 academic year.
Teaching Innovation Excellence Award
This award recognizes faculty members who have demonstrated creativity and effectiveness in the classroom by implementing innovative teaching methods. Congratulations to Steve Adler, Chavon Campbell, and Vicky Luo for their exceptional work in reimagining pedagogical approaches and enhancing student engagement through innovative course design and delivery.
Scholarship Excellence Award
Honoring impactful scholarly contributions, the Scholarship Excellence Award was presented to Andy Hao. His exemplary research output and commitment to advancing knowledge in his field have made a significant impact within the academic community and beyond.
Service Excellence Award
For their outstanding service and leadership across university and professional activities, Farhad Rassekh and Ning Jia were recognized with the Service Excellence Award. Their dedication to supporting students, faculty governance, and the broader academic mission exemplifies the spirit of the Barney School.
Exemplary Faculty Award
The highest recognition for a full-time faculty member, the Exemplary Faculty Award, was awarded to Irina Naoumova. Her excellence in teaching, research, service, and community engagement reflects the holistic mission of the Barney School and the University of Hartford.
Staff Excellence Award
Acknowledging the indispensable contributions of staff, the Staff Excellence Award was jointly awarded to Amelia Sponauer, Dawn Zumbroski, and Khalia Whyte. Their professionalism, support, and commitment to student success and institutional operations have been vital to the school’s continued excellence.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s awardees. Their achievements inspire the entire Barney community and continue to elevate the standards of excellence across our school.