Dickinson State University (DSU) proudly celebrated the outstanding achievements and contributions of its faculty and staff at the 2025 Faculty and Staff Service Awards ceremony, held on Thursday, May 15, 2025, in the DSU Student Center Ballroom. The event honored individuals across various categories, including: Distinguished Educator of the Year, Innovative Teacher of the Year, Professional Contributions Award, Excellence in Teaching Award, Adjunct Faculty Recognition Award, Physical Plant Staff Service Award, Professional Staff Service Award, and Administrative Staff Service Award.
“The Faculty and Staff Service Awards reflect the strength of our DSU community,” said Ty Orton, Acting President. “These recipients exemplify the dedication and spirit that make DSU a special place to learn and work. We are grateful for their outstanding contributions.”
The 2025 Faculty and Staff Service Awards ceremony underscored DSU’s deep appreciation for the dedication, innovation, and excellence demonstrated by its faculty and staff. By celebrating these accomplishments, DSU not only honors the exceptional efforts of its team members but also inspires continued excellence across the university.
“Our faculty and staff are deeply committed to student success, and their passion for teaching, innovation, and service defines the academic excellence of Dickinson State University,” stated Dr. Holly Gruhlke, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost. “It’s an honor to celebrate their achievements and recognize the impact they make every day.”
Distinguished Educator of the Year
Amy Grinsteinner, Assistant Professor of Education
Amy Grinsteinner was selected as the Distinguished Educator of the Year for 2025.
Her contributions to Dickinson State University are immeasurable. Through leadership
in assessment, commitment to the community, dedication to her academic discipline,
and passion for teaching, Grinsteinner has made a profound and lasting impact on the
university.
Innovative Teacher of the Year
Sarah Crossingham, Assistant Professor of Education
Sarah Crossingham was named the Innovative Teacher of the Year for her exceptional
teaching methods. In the classroom, Crossingham’s commitment to interdisciplinary
collaboration has been instrumental in advancing the teacher education program and
enhancing the academic and professional growth of future educators. Beyond the classroom,
she fosters a culture of inclusivity and community engagement by building strong partnerships
with local organizations. Crossingham truly embodies the essence of an innovative
educator.
Professional Contributions Award
Carey Haugen, Assistant Professor of Nursing, Co-Administrator
Carey Haugen received the Professional Contributions Award. Haugen’s contributions
to the nursing program and Dickinson State University exemplify the spirit of transformational
leadership. She brought not only dedication but also vision—reimagining what the nursing
program could become. Her commitment and personal sacrifices have played a pivotal
role in upholding the university’s tradition of excellence in nursing education, helping
to shape the next generation of highly skilled healthcare professionals.
Collette Christoffers, Associate Professor of Nursing, Co-Administrator
Collette Christoffers was awarded the Professional Contributions Award. Christoffers
has been a driving force in the continued success of the nursing program at Dickinson
State University. Her work has gone beyond expectations, redefining what is possible
through innovation, perseverance, and a deep sense of responsibility. Through tireless
efforts and personal investment, Christoffers has advanced the mission of nursing
education at DSU, leaving a lasting impact on students and the broader healthcare
community.
Excellence in Teaching Award
Tim Daniel, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology
Tim Daniel received the Excellence in Teaching Award. Daniel’s classroom is a place
of engagement, meaning, and inspiration. His ability to connect with students and
bring the content to life leaves a lasting impression, encouraging others to pursue
their own journeys in education. His passion and commitment to teaching, lifelong
learning, and the field of health, physical education, and sport/exercise serve as
an inspirational model for aspiring educators.
Colin Strine, Associate Professor of Biology
Colin Strine received the Excellence in Teaching Award. Strine has a remarkable ability
to foster an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. He actively engages in
discussions and challenges students to think critically about course material. His
enthusiasm for learning inspires deeper academic engagement, and his clear communication
of complex concepts ensures accessibility for all students.
Adjunct Faculty Recognition Award
Robert Hoffman, Adjunct Professor of Education
Robert Hoffman received the Adjunct Faculty Recognition Award. Hoffman is highly respected
by his students, who value his engaging teaching style, depth of knowledge, and dedication
to their success. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure students not only
grasp course content but also build the confidence and skills needed to become outstanding
educators. His ability to bridge theory and real-world application enhances the learning
experience in meaningful ways.
Physical Plant Staff Service Award
Alan Klatt, Maintenance Worker
Alan Klatt was honored with the Physical Plant Staff Service Award. Klatt is known
for his kindness, professionalism, and constant willingness to help. His work has
greatly enhanced the comfort, safety, and functionality of DSU’s environment, and
he has become a trusted and valued member of the campus community.
Professional Staff Service Award
Krissy Kilwein, Director of Human Resources
Krissy Kilwein received the Professional Staff Service Award. Kilwein exemplifies
quiet strength and humble leadership. Working diligently behind the scenes, she consistently
makes a meaningful impact without seeking recognition. She is one of DSU’s unsung
heroes, and this award acknowledges her invaluable contributions to the university.
Mackenzie Hicks, Director of Campus Life
Mackenzie Hicks was recognized with the Professional Staff Service Award. Hicks’s
dedication to students is evident in her daily interactions and in the inclusive,
engaging environment she helps foster. Her contributions extend beyond her official
role—serving as President of Staff Senate and actively collaborating with the School
of Education. Hicks is quick to lend support wherever a need arises, consistently
demonstrating a spirit of leadership and service.
Administrative Staff Service Award
Ratna Fleig, Office Assistant, Academic Records
Ratna Fleig received the Administrative Staff Service Award. In the absence of an
administrative assistant for a key program, Fleig stepped in to ensure smooth operations.
She skillfully balanced this role with her responsibilities in the Office of Academic
Records. Her ability to maintain efficiency while prioritizing student success exemplifies
her strong commitment to the academic mission of DSU.
The 2025 Faculty and Staff Service Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the shared values that define Dickinson State University—excellence, service, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to student success.
“As I step into the role of president, I’m inspired by the caliber of talent and commitment shown by DSU’s faculty and staff, celebrating their accomplishments reaffirms the bright future ahead for the university and the students we serve,” said Scott Molander, Incoming President.
Each honoree serves as a reminder of the incredible impact that dedicated educators and staff have on the DSU community. As the university looks toward the future under new leadership, the accomplishments recognized at this year’s ceremony serve as a strong foundation for continued growth, collaboration, and excellence across campus.