Academic Affairs honors faculty and staff at 2026 awards luncheon

James Madison University recognized faculty and staff accomplishments during the 2026 Academic Affairs Awards and Recognition Luncheon, held Thursday, April 30.

The annual event celebrated excellence across teaching, scholarship, service and leadership, honoring individuals whose work exemplifies JMU’s academic mission and commitment to student success.

Among the honors presented were eight Distinguished Service Awards and eight Madison Scholar Awards, each given annually by JMU’s academic colleges and the JMU Libraries. Seven Distinguished Teacher Awards were presented by the academic colleges, recognizing faculty members for exceptional and sustained teaching excellence. In addition, 13 Provost Awards for Excellence were awarded.

Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Bob Kolvoord said the luncheon provides an important opportunity to recognize the people whose daily efforts make a meaningful difference for students and the institution.

“The work that JMU faculty and staff do every day to support our students is outstanding and deserves to be celebrated,” Kolvoord said. “Each year, we take time to highlight the work and accomplishments of staff and faculty who have gone over and above our already high bar. These efforts need to be recognized and shared, and it is a pleasure to host an event that does just that. Our faculty and staff are the backbone of the institution and by applauding their work, we recognize and celebrate the people that make the difference at JMU.”

A list of award winners can be found at: Recent Award Recipients.

Information about the awards is available here: Awards for JMU Faculty & Staff.