Adviser of the Year Recipients

Kevyn J. Juneau, associate professor of conservation and environmental science, has been named 2023 Adviser of the Year. Juneau was formally presented with the award by UWRF Provost David Travis on August 28 during fall Opening Meeting.

Established in 2000, the annual award recognizes excellence in advising undergraduates. Nominations are made by current students and alumni and reviewed by the Faculty Senate Advising Committee, which makes the final selection.

Juneau joined the Plant and Earth Science Department in 2016, teaching classes in forestry and environmental sciences. In addition to advising some 50 students each year, he pursues research in invasive plant ecology and management.

Juneau became interested in the natural world while wandering the Adirondacks near his childhood home of Mooers, N.Y., just minutes from the Canadian border. The first in his family to attend college, Juneau enrolled at State University of New York-Plattsburgh where he received a B.S. in biology with minors in English and psychology. He then earned his master’s degree in entomology and nematology at University of Florida, and a Ph.D. in forest science at Michigan Technological University.

Juneau said he wouldn’t be where he is today without the teachers and mentors who guided him along his academic path. He said he is especially grateful to his high school biology teacher, Ed Kaufman, whose “passion and enthusiasm for the natural world were contagious” and to Ken Adams, his undergraduate mentor and research adviser, whose “unparalleled knowledge of the natural world [is something] I strive to achieve every day.”

Multiple award nominators commented on his friendliness, compassion, content and resource knowledge, connections, and advocacy.

One nominator, who entered the program after “a long hiatus from college life,” wrote that Juneau “takes time to listen to your career goals and really sets your path to be a clear and timely trajectory to graduation.”

Another wrote that he “has been there for me through every panic about classes. He supports me and tells me that we will get through it together.”

Alum Taylor Hill, who is completing her Ph.D. in the Integrative and Conservation Biology Department at University of Central Florida (UCF), said that when she first met Juneau as a sophomore, she revealed that she wanted to study coyote-wolf genetics.

“He said, ‘the sky’s the limit,’” she recalls. “Since that moment, Kevyn has been a supportive adviser, advocate, friend, and mentor along my circuitous journey from UW-River Falls to UCF.”

“Advising is a holistic process, and one that goes beyond registering for classes,” said Juneau. “Advising is something that everyone on campus participates in – custodians, program associates, administrators, faculty, staff. Everyone who works at UWRF is an adviser and is integral to student success.”

A major contributor to Juneau’s ability to be a compassionate and effective adviser is his attentiveness to diversity, inclusivity and belonging. He said it was his Ph.D. adviser, Catherine Tarasoff, who “enlightened me and drove me to a better advocate, professionally and personally, for those who are marginalized.”

This commitment is born out in various and fundamental ways both on and off campus.

On campus, Juneau served as both member and chair of the Diversity and Inclusivity Committee. Nationally, Juneau is a member of the Society of American Foresters Diversity and Inclusion Working Group and an active participant in the Wisconsin Diversity, Equity, Inclusivity, and Justice Community of Practice for conservation professionals.

Since 2017 (with a two-year hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic), Juneau has led a group of students to Andros Island in the Bahamas to help the local Bahamian Forestry Unit assist with tropical restoration projects. Juneau designed the program so that it was not cost-prohibitive and actively recruited low-income, first-generation students with limited experience traveling internationally.

Beyond his academic responsibilities, Juneau is active in the area’s conservation and sustainability community, serving on the board of the Kinnikinnic River Land Trust and City of River Falls’ Urban Forest Advisory Committee.

Tamara (Tammy) Kincaid, associate professor of social work, has been named Adviser of the Year at the University Wisconsin-River Falls.

Established in 2000, the annual award recognizes excellence in advising undergraduate students. Nominations are made by current students and alumni and reviewed by the Faculty Senate Advising Committee, which makes the final selection.

Kincaid, who also serves as chair of the Social Work Department, was formally presented with the award by UWRF Provost David Travis on August 29 during the university’s fall Opening Day.

“I am very proud of this award,” said Kincaid. “It’s a good indication that I am helping students find their way, both academically and professionally.”

Prior to joining the UWRF faculty in 2012, Kincaid worked in social services – primarily in child protection – for over 25 years. From 2007-12, she was director of Pierce County Human Services. 

It’s that lived experience that makes Kincaid a good teacher and adviser said Stacy Furness, associate dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies. 

“Students like to hear about real experiences in the classroom, and they know that she knows what she’s talking about,” Furniss said.
 
As an adviser, Furness said that Kincaid’s experiences “allow her to go above and beyond the academic side of things. She asks students ‘What other tools do you need to succeed?’”
 
Assistant Professor Courtney Wells, a colleague and former classmate of Kincaid’s, agrees.

“Tammy spends countless hours meeting with students and setting them up for success in our program and in the field,” Wells said.
 
“Tammy really took the time to get to know me,” wrote a recent graduate. “She took a genuine interest in drawing out my skills and strengths and guiding me in putting them to use. … I can honestly say I would not be where I am today if not for her.”

Kincaid advises 70-75 students each year, some of whom “do not fit the mold of a traditional student,” she said, including former foster youth who have aged out of the system.

“Tammy was always there for me,” said a recent program graduate and former foster youth. “Without judgement, she provided messages of encouragement and validation for my experiences. She continues to make space for me to this day.”
 
Kincaid’s passion for student service led her to apply for, and recently receive, a $70,000 grant from UW System for the Falcon Links/Fostering Success program which supports students who have been in foster care, homeless, or otherwise involved in the child welfare system. 

Kincaid received her bachelor’s degree in social work from Minnesota State University Moorhead, and master’s degrees in public affairs and social work, as well as her Ph.D. in social work from University of Minnesota–Twin Cities.
 
Kincaid resides in Stillwater, Minn., with her two mini-Australian shepherds and a cat. She has three adult children: Sarah, Alex, and Maria who live and work in the Twin Cities area. She enjoys crafting, travelling in her converted minivan camper, and visiting small town public libraries and museums.

Brenda Boetel, professor of agricultural economics, has been named Adviser of the Year at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Boetel is the fourth faculty member from the Agricultural Economics Department to receive the award since its inception in 2000.

Current students and alumni submit nominations for the award each spring and the Faculty Senate Advising Committee reviews the nominations and makes the final selection.

“After I was re-admitted to UW-River Falls, Dr. Boetel served as my academic adviser,” said one nominator. “She was integral in helping me choose a course load that did not hinder my education or progress toward graduation. She was always available to have a conversation and help me figure things out. If it wasn’t for Dr. Boetel, I wouldn’t have graduated, plain and simple. Because of her passion, care and advice, I returned to college and notched six consecutive semesters with a GPA greater than 3.0 as someone who was previously suspended.”

“I have always been motivated by individuals that are passionate about what they do. I have never been that invested in my academics but meeting Dr. Boetel inspired me to take ownership in my education and find the value in it,” wrote an alumnus. “Opening my eyes to the opportunities in front of me and again inspiring me from her passion in what she does. I felt she believed she was successful when I was, it was never just another day or another meeting with a student when I walked into her office. I knew that she was going to do everything she could to help me be successful.”

Another nominator said, “Her insight and advice was second to none. When I was in my last semester of college, we had numerous conversations about the future and what it held. I may not have chosen to pursue a career in my degree field immediately upon graduating, however, almost three years later, I find myself still recalling her advice and wisdom. It is this that has led me back into the agricultural field where I have actively been pursuing a career. All in all, I believe that Dr. Brenda Boetel is more than deserving of this award, not just because of my story or situation, but because there are many more like mine.”

Boetel, of River Falls, was formally presented with the award by UWRF Provost David Travis on the Opening Day of the fall semester.

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Having students take their time to nominate me for this award is incredibly meaningful,” said Boetel. “I truly enjoy working with the students and probably get as much from our interactions as they do.”

Boetel joined the faculty at UW-River Falls in 2002 accepting a joint teaching and Extension appointment. In this position she also serves as the state-wide agricultural marketing specialist focusing on the areas of livestock marketing and price analysis for UW-Madison Division of Extension. Since 2016, Boetel has served as chair of the Agricultural Economics Department. She is originally from Huron, S.D., and earned her BA degree at Minnesota State University Moorhead, her MS from the University of Kentucky and her Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota.

Paul J. Budde, assistant professor of music at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, has been named the university’s 2020 Adviser of the Year. He was formally presented with the award at the UWRF Spring Semester Opening Meeting January 19.

Current students and recent alumni submit nominations for the award which was established by UWRF in 2000. The Faculty Senate Advising Committee then reviews nominations and makes a recommendation to the chancellor. 

In their narratives, students emphasized Budde’s caring and welcoming attitude, along with his experience and thoroughness in guiding a student along their career journey.

“Dr. Budde greets every student he crosses paths with and makes an effort to check-in on our academics as well as our mental health,” said one student. “I have always felt secure in my program with such a strong and positive leader and educator as my adviser.” Another student wrote, “Professor Budde has been a vital resource for me, he always encourages that an appropriate credit load is taken and emphasizes that quality of life matters. He has helped me start my career and I could not thank him more.”

When asked to describe three qualities that make Budde uniquely suited for this award, a third student offered: “He strives for improvement. Dr. Budde looks for ways to better himself and students, he is caring, going out of his way to make sure students are doing well and he’s very organized. He takes notes about anything that needs to be addressed.”

“It’s such an honor to help students navigate their college years, both in terms of academics and life,” said Budde. “I was fortunate to have an undergraduate adviser who made (and continues to make) a huge difference in my life. I’m thankful for the opportunity to do the same for my students, helping them make the most of their collegiate experiences and (ultimately) setting them up for a rewarding career and meaningful life.”

Budde teaches Introduction to Music Education, General Music Methods, Elementary Music Methods, Secondary Music Methods, Music for Elementary Teachers, Popular Music, World Music, First Year Adventures, and Applied Tuba.

In addition, he supervises music students who are student teaching in area schools. He currently serves as president-elect of the Wisconsin Music Educators Association (WMEA) and is a member of the WMEA Wisconsin Music Standards Revision Committee.

Budde is an active performer and clinician. In addition to his experiences as a tuba soloist, he is a member of the Stone Arch Brass, an ensemble that represented the United States during performances at the 2014 Harbin Summer Music Festival in China. He has also performed in numerous Twin Cities ensembles, including the Minnesota Orchestra, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, National Lutheran Chorale, Minneapolis Pops Orchestra, Lake Wobegon Brass Band, and VocalEssence. Budde’s collegiate tuba quartet, The Pistons, was the first-place winner of the first-ever International Tuba/Euphonium Quartet Competition in 1992. His primary tuba instructors have been Jerry Young and Ross Tolbert, but he has also studied with Arnold Jacobs, Sam Pilafian, and Patrick Sheridan. Budde was the creator and chairperson of Tubonium, a two-day tuba-euphonium workshop that brought low-brass enthusiasts and world-renowned guest artists to this Minnesota event. He also released an album, titled Practice Room Grooves, made up of accompaniment tracks that serve as a means to improve fundamentals during independent practice. 

Budde’s current research centers on the use of national music standards by music educators in Wisconsin and Minnesota as well as action-based research. His dissertation study, An Analysis of Methods for Teaching Middle School Band Students to Articulate represents another area of research.

Budde lives in Lakeville, Minn., with his wife, Kimberly, and their four boys. He earned a bachelor’s degree in instrumental music education from UW-Eau Claire, a master’s degree in tuba performance and a Ph.D. in music education, both from the University of Minnesota.

Eric Sanden, professor of conservation and environmental planning, has been named the 2019 Adviser of the Year at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. He was formally presented with the award at the UWRF Spring Semester Opening Meeting January 21.

Current students and recent alumni submitted nominations for the award which was established by UWRF in 2000. The Faculty Senate Advising Committee then reviewed the nominations and made a recommendation to the Chancellor. 

In their narratives, students emphasized Sanden’s caring and welcoming attitude, along with his experience and thoroughness in guiding a student along their career path.

 “Dr. Sanden always has a kind and friendly attitude towards his students and does his best to help us in our academics and career goals,” said one student. “He is timely and knowledgeable about university policy and is understanding of how to get done what needs to be done.”

Another student wrote, “Professor Sanden has been a vital resource for me. He takes the time to help students in all aspects of life. He has helped me start my career and I could not thank him more.”

When asked to describe three qualities that make Sanden uniquely suited for this award, a third student offered, “Excellent listener; good at explaining; friendly and welcoming.”

“It’s really a team effort with faculty and staff working together diligently to make the best experience for our students,” Sanden said of the award. “Our amazing students make us all look good.”

Sanden joined the faculty at UW-River Falls in 1992 after earning his Ph.D. in range science from Texas Tech University. In 2015, Sanden was honored with the Outstanding Faculty Award for the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Science (CAFES) at UWRF. That same year he was named director of the CAFES Internship Program, a long-standing program in the college. Through the efforts of faculty and industry partners, hundreds of CAFES students are provided with a paid, guided workplace experience each year.

Jen Willis-Rivera, a member of the graduate faculty in communications and media studies, has been named the 2018 Adviser of the Year at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

The award was established in 2000 to recognize an outstanding faculty adviser at UW-River Falls.

Nominations are made by graduating seniors and alumni, with the recipient selected by the Faculty Senate Advising Committee.

It was Jennifer’s passion for supporting her students that was the most common theme in the nominations materials.

“Jen not only cares about me as a student in her classes but also as a person. She has helped me through tough decisions that I have had to make, and made me feel like I mattered.”

Nominators highly rated Jennifer’s broad knowledge of the institution and the resources available to students other reasons she deserved to be honored as Adviser of the Year.

Jen was also found to be highly accessible, helpful and caring. Additionally, nominators where taken by Jennifer’s commitment to the university’s core values, and how she represents them in her work.

The title of UWRF Adviser of the Year is a fitting and well-deserved tribute, acknowledging Jen’s contributions to our students’ success.

David Trechter, professor of agricultural economics, has been named the 2017 Adviser of the Year at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. The award was established in 2000 to recognize an outstanding faculty adviser at UW-River Falls. Nominations are made by graduating seniors and alumni, with the recipient selected by the Faculty Senate Advising Committee.

Trechter joined the faculty at UW-River Falls in 1990 after earning his Ph.D. in agricultural economics at Michigan State University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and economics from the University of California-Davis and a master’s degree in food research from Stanford University.

Nomination materials for Trechter emphasized his care and concern for students.

“Dr. Trechter responded to me in a timely manner, and if I stopped by his office he was always willing to have me sit down and talk to him,” said one nomination. “He made it possible for me to graduate on time with two majors and a minor. He cared and that was important to me.”

Other nominations echoed that sentiment.

“Dr. Trechter is interested in his advisees’ goals. He is caring and wants to know what all is going on in their lives other than school,” read one nomination. “He’s dedicated to his advisees and will do what he can to help them succeed and continue after graduation.”

In addition to his teaching and advising duties, Trechter has directed the UW-River Falls Survey Research Center since 2002 and is a statewide specialist with the University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension Service, working in the areas of cooperatives and rural development.

Holly A.S. Dolliver, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Geology and Soil Science, was recently honored with two awards, one from her colleagues and the second from students. Dolliver was named the 2016 Outstanding Faculty member by her colleagues in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) and was named the 2016 Adviser of the Year at UW-River Falls through a nomination process that included current students and alumni.

Dolliver, of River Falls, received the Outstanding Faculty Award at the CAFES 50th Annual Scholarship and Awards Banquet April 21. Nominations for the award are solicited from faculty within the college, and reviewed by a committee, which makes a recommendation to the Dean. The awardee is also honored nationally with the Teaching Award of Merit from the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA). The recipient of the award is only revealed when announced at the annual banquet.

In his letter of nomination, one of Dolliver's colleagues wrote, "She has set a new standard for faculty in terms of teaching, research and service excellence." Another colleague wrote, "I have known few faculty over my 40-year career that possess Holly's passion for her profession."

 All current students and alumni are eligible to submit nominations for the UW-River Falls Adviser of the Year Award. The Faculty Senate Advising Committee reviews the nominations and makes a recommendation to the Chancellor. Dolliver will be formally presented with the award at a campus event next fall. Students who nominated Dolliver spoke about her professionalism.

"She displayed professionalism at all times, a characteristic that is highly valuable to the students. There was never a doubt that Holly put her students first. She was always very conscious about making sure no students fell through the cracks," the student wrote. When asked to describe a quality that makes Dolliver uniquely suited for the award, a second student said, "Listener – she listened to my interests and concerns; passion – she always conveyed passion for her work; professionalism – she demonstrated professionalism."

Within the Department of Plant and Earth Science, Dolliver is known as an outstanding teacher. She has played a key role in recasting both the geology and soil science majors, significantly improving the way information, knowledge and skills are delivered to the benefit of students. As an example, she transformed an upper-level geomorphology course from a traditional lecture-lab format into an integrated studio-hybrid format, where students are responsible for all content and background materials outside of class via on-line lecture, and all class time is devoted to working on activities, projects and field exercises. This format change resulted in a significant improvement in student performance.    

Outside of the classroom, Dolliver has served as a supervisor and mentor for dozens of undergraduate student research projects and accompanied many of them to national meetings where they presented their research. One of her student researchers took first place for his work at the 2013 national Students of Agronomy, Soils and Environmental Science meeting.

Dolliver also serves as the coach for the Soils Judging Team, at times fielding two teams in a single year. Over the past six years, the eight teams from UW-River Falls finished in the top three six times, including three first place finishes.

Her professional colleagues across the country also recognize Dolliver's teaching excellence. She was invited by the Soil Science Society of America to participate in a panel discussion on best teaching practices at their national meeting. The Geological Society of America invited her to write a paper on using Google Earth to teach geomorphology. Her paper was included in a special volume on using Google Earth in the classroom and was featured on the Google Earth Blog.

Dolliver truly loves her job and that is evident in her response to these awards.

"The best part about my job is getting to work with so many great students. I strive to provide students with practical, challenging, and engaging experiences both in the classroom and in the field through research and judging experiences," Dolliver said. "For me, the greatest reward is the opportunity to watch them learn, grow professionally, and achieve success in their careers. I am fortunate to be surrounded by colleagues who share my passion for teaching and grateful to those that have mentored and supported me throughout my career."

 Geology Professor Ian Williams has been named the 2015 Adviser of the Year at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Nominations for the award are solicited from graduating seniors and recent alumni, with Faculty Senate Advising Committee making the selection. 

Students who nominated Williams noted how much he cares about his students. 

"He always looked out for me and pointed how much he cares about his students.

"He always looked out for me and pointed me in a direction that showed my strengths and challenged my weaknesses," one students said. "Overall he pushed me to be a better student, have more confidence in myself."

A second student wrote, " He truly cares about his student's success and will always go above and beyond to help. he is one of the most passionate professors I have ever met and that has inspired me to be a passionate student. 

Williams, of River Falls, brought his expertise in Geophysics to UW-River Falls in 1982 and has taught a variety of courses including Structural Geology, Geophysics, Planetary Geology, Environmental Geology and Energy for Sustainable Management--a team-taught course with a faculty member form the Physics Department.

He is an avid traveler, who has not only led many annual regional geology field trips, but has been heavily engaged in the Semester Abroad: Europe, the Wisconsin in Scotland and the International Traveling Classroom (ITC) program. For the ITC Williams taught Geology 101 in the Pyrenees, where he used the mountain chain to put the ideas in Geology 101 to the test. He is preparing to lead Semester Abroad: Europe program again in fall 2015.

His passion for teaching motivated him to be involved with the new faculty orientation and faculty development programs on campus for nearly a decade. In addition to his academic advising, Williams served as the adviser for the River Falls Geological Society for 30 years, turning over the role to a colleague in 2014. He has an ongoing research program with a colleague at the University of Hawaii and they will have a poster describing their interpretation of a geomagnetic Reversal Record at the fall 2015 meeting of the American Geophysical Union in San Francisco and this summers' meeting of the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics in Prague.

Williams holds a bachelor's degree from Durham University in North East England, a master's degree from Newcastle University in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, and a Ph. D. from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Dave Bonko has been named the 2014 UW-River Falls Adviser of the Year.

Dave has been with the University of Wisconsin-River Falls since 1998. He has taught a variety of classes in the Marketing Communications program and Intro to Mass Communication in the Journalism department since 2001. He also taught a wide array of Management, Marketing and Small Business classes in the College of Business & Economics from 1998-2009.

His background includes an MBA-University of St. Thomas, BA-University of St. Thomas. He also works as a small business consultant for a number of Twin City economic development non-profit organizations including the Neighborhood Development Center and Selby Area Community Development Corporation. His personal interests include coaching high school football (go North St. Paul High School Polars!) as well as other youth sports, Alfred Hitchcock movies, BBQ'ing, hiking and taking "Clark Griswold-like" family vacations. 

Mark Bergland is Chair of the Biology Department at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, and also teaches ornithology each spring semester.  He has been PI for five National Science Foundation grants to develop educational software, primarily via the Case It! project (http://www.caseitproject.org).  This software is distributed free of charge to educational institutions worldwide, including high schools, community colleges, and universities.  In addition to the Academic Advisor Award for 2012, Dr. Bergland has received two Outstanding Teaching Awards (1990, 2003) and a Scholarship Award (2004) from the College of Arts and Sciences.  He has a B.S. in Wildlife Biology from Colorado State University (1972) and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Wildlife Management from the University of Michigan (1978).

Keith Chavey has been a professor of mathematics at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, with an expertise in combinatorics and matrix theory since 1991.  He is a member of the Mathematical Association of America and the Institute of Combinatorics and its Applications along with several publications and textbook reviews over the years.  Dr. Chavey has given many presentation over the years in an array of venues, such as the Mathematical Department Seminar Talks, Wisconsin Mathematical Council Meeting, Mathematical Association of America Meeting, and the Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics Conference on Applied Linear Algebra.   He is actively involved in his department, such as serving on Department Merit Committee, Post Tenure Review Committee, Summer advising, Editor for department newsletter, Math 147 department assessment, and Department Chair duties.  He has also served as Graduate Adviser and on Graduate Comprehensive Exam committees since 1995. Has has a B.S. in Mathematics/Physics, and History from Northern Illinois University (1985).  He also has a M.S. in Mathematics (1988) and Ph.D.(1991) in Mathematics/Computer Science from University of Wisconsin-Madison.

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls’ College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS) Senior Adviser/Administrative Specialist, Mike Martin, has been recognized at the state level for his talents in advising. Martin received the prestigious Wisconsin Academic Advising Association Advising Excellence Award at their state conference in September.

Nominations were received from public and private institutions of higher education including technical and two-year colleges; only two awards are presented each year. Martin is also the recent recipient of the UW-River Falls Academic Adviser of the Year award.

“I am flattered to receive this award, however watching my students grow and move forward both personally and professionally year after year is far more rewarding,” says Martin.

Martin has been a UWRF staff member for 13 years and advises approximately 350 pre-elementary education students.

“Using the developmental approach to advising, he works in a caring, supportive, yet firm, manner with his advisees to help them make difficult decisions,” CEPS Interim Dean Faye Perkins says of Martin.

Among his other professional duties, Martin also serves as the UWRF Academic Staff Council representative to the University of Wisconsin System, serves as the UWRF certification officer, manages reports required by the state, and lends his expertise to other programs across campus.

Chancellor Dean Van Galen notes, “Mike Martin has been an exemplary adviser for many years, and this honor is well deserved. He has guided, mentored, and influenced the lives of many UW-River Falls students.”

Travis Tubré, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, has been named the 2009 UWRF Academic Adviser of the Year.

Tubré, of River Falls, will be honored at the faculty/staff awards ceremony held annually during the fall semester. Tubré was also the recipient of the 2008 UWRF Distinguished Teacher of the Year, the highest award that can be presented at UWRF.

"Dr. Tubre's subsequent honors as Distinguished Teacher and now Academic Adviser of the Year come as no surprise to those who have spoken with UWRF students about their academic experiences,” said Connie Foster, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs and former interim chancellor. “Travis has an extraordinary ability to connect with students on both an academic and personal level."

The Adviser of the Year award was established in 2000 to recognize an outstanding faculty adviser with nominations by graduating seniors and alumni. Those nominations are then considered by the Faculty Senate advising committee, which makes the final selection.

Tubré teaches numerous courses in such areas as general psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, employee selection and training, psychological testing, and research methods. He is also an active consultant and researcher, contributing numerous conference presentations, scholarly journal articles, and book chapters on such topics as employee testing, simulation and team-based training, and the measurement of job performance.

His research efforts have received awards from several universities and professional associations, and he has conducted invited addresses at such prestigious venues as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the Science Museum of Minnesota. Tubré has also been an active contributor to UWRF, serving on search committees, assisting with strategic planning in the College of Arts and Sciences, chairing the CAS Curriculum Committee, and serving as the Faculty Senate liaison to the Academic Staff Council.

Tubré also serves as co-adviser to the student chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management and advises the Psychology Society and the Men's and Women's Lacrosse Clubs. In 2006, Tubré was named the outstanding mentor for the UWRF McNair Scholars Program. He has also received an Excellence in Advising Award and an Excellence in Scholarship Award from the College of Arts and Sciences.

Tubré joined the faculty in June 2001 from the University of Southern Mississippi. He holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from University of Southwestern Louisiana and a master's degree and doctorate in industrial and organizational psychology from Texas A&M University.

Herb Cederberg, of St. Paul, received the Adviser of the Year Award, given for past service to students.

An emeritus professor of history, Cederberg joined UWRF in 1966 and retired in 1999. He received B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of California Berkeley and was a postdoctoral fellow at Northwestern University in Chicago.

Prior to coming to UWRF he taught at the University of California-Davis and after joining UWRF was an assistant visiting professor at the University of Minnesota for a year. In the early 1970s he co-founded and was director of the UWRF Minority Services Office and was the recipient of several state and national grants for his research and publications.

For many years, Cederberg led an annual study tour to the Washington, D.C. area and a colonial history tour to sites around the East Coast.

Kelly Cain, professor in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and program coordinator for the University's Wildlife Recreation and Nature Tourism graduate online certificate program, is a popular professor among students and peers. He has received the 2005-06 Adviser of the Year as well as the 2004 Wisconsin Idea Fellow, a 2001 UW System Teaching Scholar Award, a 1999 National Peer Mentor for the Learn & Serve America Exchange and a 1995 UW Regents Teaching Excellence Award. He was named the 1994-95 UW-RF Distinguished Teacher of the Year and a 1993-94 UW System Teaching Fellow as well.

Cain teaches undergraduate and graduate courses at UW-River Falls and manages community service projects in sustainability-based planning and management. His work in international projects ranges from China and Trinidad to Bolivia and Nicaragua, and currently he has embarked on a sabbatical during the 2006-07 school year, working on sustainability issues in China for fall semester and South America during spring semester.

In addition to his teaching duties, Cain is actively involved in community outreach and service-learning in the St. Croix Valley, speaking and consulting on sustainability-based lifestyles, business models and community development. He has taught at the University of Minnesota and Appalachian State University as well as wilderness leadership courses and outdoor education for the Wilderness Education Association and Wilderness Inquiry. He holds a Ph.D. from the U of M. A River Falls resident, Cain is married and has three children.

UW-River Falls alumnus and professor of agricultural economics Nate Splett has been named the 2005 Adviser of the Year at the university.

Splett, who also is an associate dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, is the sixth recipient of the award at the University's all-campus awards reception April 19.

The award was established in 2000 to recognize an outstanding faculty adviser with nominations by graduating seniors and alumni. Those nominations are then considered by the Faculty Senate Advising Committee, which makes the final selection.

Students who nominated Splett noted his genuine concern for their well being. One said, "No matter what your situation, Nate always has a kind word and some advice for you." Another said, "Nate is very knowledgeable in what students have to do to complete their requirements. He is also very easy to talk to." A third commented, "Nate is the adviser who will do anything in his power to help his students and advisees succeed.

Splett's experience combines teaching and research with experience in agri-business and the public schools. He was a vocational agriculture instructor in the Barron and Turtle Lake (Wis.) high schools, a loan officer for Production Credit Association, a supervisor for the Farm Credit Administration, has served as a consultant to agriculture-oriented financial institutions, and taught economics at UW-Stout.

In addition to his administrative duties at UW-RF, he teaches introductory ag economics, advanced microeconomic theory, agricultural accounting, agricultural law, farm management and horticultural management. He is a former chair of the UW-RF department of agricultural economics.

"Nate Splett's selection as the UW-RF outstanding adviser is well deserved," said CAFES Dean Stephen Ridley. "Nate takes student advising very seriously. He is very knowledgeable regarding the technicalities of the curriculum, and he knows and understands his students well. He is one of the most effective advisers I have known."

Splett is a recent recipient of an U.S. Department of Agriculture grant to infuse legal content into the CAFES curriculum. He has also received other USDA grants for curriculum enhancement and a grant from the Wisconsin Humanities Council for a documentary film on farms. His scholarly and research articles have been published in journals including Agribusiness, Agriculture Financial Review, Journal of Dairy Science, and others. He has been an active member on various University committees.

Splett holds a B.S. in ag education and an M.S. in ag economics from UWRF as well as a Ph.D. in ag economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. While completing his dissertation at UI, he was a research assistant and fellow. He also has been a visiting lecturer at the Academy of National Economy in Moscow, Russia.

On receiving the award, Splett said, "It was a pleasant surprise. I think at the core of advising is genuine caring about our students, and I see this every day among our faculty and staff across campus. It is a privilege for me to represent our faculty and staff in their excellent advising efforts by receiving this award. "

He is a member of the Bloomer Historical Society, Christ Lutheran Church, Scandinavian Cemetery Association, and Barron County Woodland Owners Association as well as a former president of the CAFES Alumni Association. He also farms in Barron and Chippewa counties.

A native of Barron County, Splett lives in Bloomer where his wife, Becky, is an elementary school teacher in the Bloomer Schools.

Splett says his students make his job very enjoyable. "Our students tend to be highly motivated, have a strong work ethic, are enthusiastic about learning, and they continually go into the job market being highly competent. It is enjoyable to be around them."

UW-River Falls alumnus and psychology Professor Bradley J. Caskey has been selected the top adviser for the 2004 academic year.

Caskey will be recognized as the fifth recipient of the award at the University's annual awards ceremony April 13. The award was established in 2000 to an outstanding faculty adviser with nominations by graduating seniors and alumni. These nominations are then considered by the Faculty Senate Advising Committee, which makes the final selection.

Students who nominated Caskey for the award noted his enthusiastic and caring style. One said, "He has helped me out more than once when I needed it. He truly cares about his advisees." Another said,"Dr. Caskey assisted me not only with selecting courses but also helped me gain research experience. [He] served as a mentor and encouraged my decision to attend graduate school."

A third student said, "Dr. Caskey shows a sincere interest in helping students proceed toward their graduation. His honesty, helpfulness and advice are all unbeatable." Another student who nominated Caskey said, "Caskey is an excellent teacher. His love and encouragement [for] his students is exceptional."

Hired in 1990, Caskey is currently the psychology department chair at UW-River Falls. Previous positions include assistant professor of psychology at the University of Puget Sound and St. Olaf College.

"I am truly honored to be receiving this award for advising," said Caskey. "In truth, however, this individual distinction is only possible because I am in a department that views advising as a critical element of its mission and am surrounded by superb colleagues who strive to effectively advise every psychology major and minor on the campus."

In 2001-02, he received the Outstanding Adviser in Social and Behavioral Sciences from the UWRF College of Arts and Sciences and in 1995-96 he was named the college's Outstanding Teacher in Social and Behavioral Sciences as well. In 1997 he was selected as the UW-RF Distinguished Teacher of the Year.

"Dr. Caskey has consistently demonstrated his concern for and commitment to our students, and was among the first faculty recognized for outstanding advising by the College of Arts and Sciences," said Gorden Hedahl, dean of the college. "There has been universal praise for his caring and personal interactions for both current and past students. It is appropriate that he has been honored for both teaching and advising excellence by the university, and he continues to provide a model for excellence as a faculty member in every area of his work."

Caskey, who lives in River Falls, holds a Ph.D. in psychology and a M.S. in developmental psychology from Purdue University and a B.S. in psychology and secondary education from UW-River Falls.

He has taught 12 courses, both undergraduate and graduate, for UW-RF. As an adviser, he assists 50-100 students each semester and serves as an independent study research adviser for all psychology majors and minors. He also serves on graduate students' committees. He has mentored two McNair scholars and has been involved in the all-campus minority student mentoring program. He has authored several successful grants for laboratory improvement and developed and administered surveys regarding collaboration efforts across the campus.

He is the author of several instructor's manuals, tests banks and online tutorials for psychology textbooks and curriculum as well as coauthor of the book "Stand!: Contending Ideas and Opinions in Life Span Developmental Psychology." He is currently co-authoring a text on child and adolescent development. His articles have appeared in Applied Psycholinguistics and Child Development, and he has presented professionally at conferences in the United States and Canada.

He has been a reviewer for the Journal of Educational Psychology and is currently a reviewer for the Chi Journal of Undergraduate Research as well as several major psychology textbook publishers including Prentice Hall, Brooks Cole, Allyn & Bacon, and Wadsworth Publishing.

Caskey, a native of Colby, Wis., is president of the United Way of River Falls and a member of the American Psychology Association Teaching Division, Midwestern Psychological Society and Phi Kappa Phi.

Horticulture Professor Terry Ferriss has been named the top academic adviser at UW-River Falls for the 2003 academic year.

Ferriss will be recognized as the fourth recipient of the honor during the annual awards ceremony on April 22.

Chancellor Ann Lydecker announced the award and noted the importance of active student advisers:

"Good advising helps our students to select the right program; to choose the best courses to meet their interest areas while helping them to progress toward a degree; and that all-important assistance in lining up the right internships and then finding the right job after commencement."

"It's so important to us that we poll those most affected--our graduating seniors and recent graduates--to tell us who's doing the best advising on campus. This year they said that honor belongs to Professor Ferriss," Lydecker said.

Among the comments graduating senior and recent alumni offered about the Hastings resident are:

"I couldn't have asked for more. She was always willing to lend an ear, offer research suggestions, make phone calls, and give encouragement for the future. Even though she was always on the run she tried as hard as possible to make time for students who needed her."

Said another: "Terry has supported me through everything, from academic advice all the way to personal support. She is very caring, knowledgeable, and is nearly like a second mother to me. She'll help with everything. You can cry and laugh with her. She understands we all have personal lives. She is great at setting up internships because she knows many people."

A third added: "Terry is very accommodating for students who intend to graduate in four years. She makes sure students receive the necessary classes that fit their goals and major, but also allows them the opportunity to graduate on time."

As an adviser, Ferriss assists up to 45 students per year; serves as the internship coordinator for horticulture, coordinating up to 25 students each year; and she is the adviser to the Horticulture Society and Pi Alpha Xi. Ferriss also is an active mentor, assisting students in research projects, selecting and applying to graduate schools, pursuing scholarships and graduate teaching assistantships.

Ferriss has coached the UWRF Floral Evaluation Team for decades, leading the team to five national championships and capturing five honors as coach of the year. Each year the team is comprised of all new students.

In her twenty-two years at UW-River Falls, Ferriss has taught 14 different horticulture courses ranging from introduction to plant science and introduction to horticulture to upper division courses in greenhouse management and floriculture.

Department Chair Robert Baker notes that Ferriss has received five previous University and national awards for teaching excellence: the National Association of Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Outstanding Teacher Award in the College of Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences in 1988, the American Society of Horticulture Science outstanding undergraduate horticulture educator national award in 1989, the UW-River Falls Distinguished Teacher of the Year award in 1996, and the USDA North Central Region national excellence teaching awards.

"To say Terry Ferriss has been an effective, dedicated, and popular instructor would be an understatement," Baker said.

Ferriss said of the recognition, "I have the privilege to work with a fantastic group of students here at UWRF. I thoroughly enjoy working with them, encouraging and facilitating them to become who and what they want to be. Often this includes providing opportunities and challenges to stretch them to their true potential and opening their eyes to all that the world has to offer.

"It 's important to me to treat each student as an individual, listen to all that they have to say and facilitate their personal and professional growth including establishing professional networks.

"This award is a tremendous honor. It is a humbling experience. Shouldn't we all get awards for doing what we love to do? I am fortunate to work in an academic environment , where students come first and advising is recognized as an important part of the undergraduate experience." 

Agricultural economics Professor Stan Schraufnagel has been named the 2002 Adviser of the Year at UW-River Falls.

Schraufnagel's recognition was announced on April 23 by Chancellor Ann Lydecker. He becomes the third recipient of the award.

Said Lydecker, "Although it is just three years old, the award recognizes the crucial importance of advising to the educational experience. Good advising helps our students to select the right program; to choose the best courses to meet their interest areas while helping them to progress toward a degree; and that all-important assistance in lining up the right internships and then finding the right job after commencement.

"The comments we received from graduating seniors and recent graduates is that Stan Schraufnagel excels at all of these skills. He is an excellent choice for this award."

Among the comments of those who nominated Schraufnagel were:

"Stan's knowledge and guidance proved helpful to me during my years at UWRF and after. He helped me make some very important decisions regarding my career. Stan is very professional and yet he is very easy to talk to and is an enjoyable person to be around."

Another noted that, "Stan has helped me through the tough times. He's always willing to help with any of my questions. He has always been there willing to help me out and probably always will."

Another student cited Schraufnagel's access to students: "He's always making time for me if I needed help with my schedule. He's been willing to check things out for me and he's always checking up on how things are going for me during the semester."

In addition to his teaching and research activities, Schraufnagel has been involved in numerous campus activities. In the College of Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences, he has chaired the curriculum committee, Sustainable Agriculture Day, the public relations committee, and promotions and awards. He also spent six years as the adviser to the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity and is currently serving as the executive secretary to the CAFES Alumni Association.

At the University level he has chaired or served on Faculty Senate committees including salary, academic standards, academic programs and policies, calendar, development, and external relations.

Schraufnagel joined the faculty at UWRF in 1983. He holds a doctorate in agriculture economics from Iowa State University.

UW-River Falls sociology Professor Clifford Mottaz has been named "Adviser of the Year" for the 2001 academic year.

Chancellor Ann Lydecker made the announcement on Aug. 27 at the opening meeting for faculty and academic staff, where she congratulated Mottaz and presented him with a check. He will also receive a plaque to commemorate the honor.

Said Lydecker, " Good advising is a critical component of the education we provide. It ensures that our students are able to move forward in a timely manner to graduate and to pursue successful careers. Professor Mottaz is always available to his students to answer their questions and to provide thoughtful advice. He is an example to us all."

Nomination for the award is through advisees and recent graduates.

Mottaz said he was pleased and honored to be selected for the award. "I would like to thank the students who nominated me and those on the advisory committee who made the selection," he said.

One former student and advisee said of Mottaz, "He advises with the same genuine concern for students that he shows when he instructs. He guides students to set goals and arrange schedules that meet their needs.¹¹ Another said, "Professor Mottaz is a kind person who loves what he does."

A student said found Mottaz so approachable and so helpful that she recommended him to her friends, and soon they were advising with him as well.

A professor of sociology at UWRF since September 1969, Mottaz earned his bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees at the University of Minnesota. His professional experience includes the publication of a number of papers on topics related to work and occupations, such as work satisfaction, work alienation and organizational commitment.

Mottaz received another honor this year when, in a different ceremony, he was recognized as the 2001 "Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year in Social and Behavioral Sciences" for the College of Arts and Sciences at the university.

He was one out of 84 nominees. He impacts many students each day and makes a personal effort to reach out to his advisees. Marketing communications Professor Stephen Olsen is the first recipient of the UW-River Falls Adviser of the Year award.

Olsen has taught at UWRF for four years and found out in late May that he had won the award.

"I had a message on my machine from Chancellor Thibodeau," Olsen began. "The Chancellor said he had something to tell me, but not to worry because he had a good message for me."

Olsen said he was happy to have received the award, but also was pleased that the University decided to select an adviser of the year.

"It was delightful news," Olsen said after learning of the award. "I am very pleased on both accounts. It is an important contribution to UWRF."

Nominations were solicited from the classes of 2000, 1997, and 1995.

Advisees that submitted comments about Olsen included: "Awesome advising skills; open, friendly and approachable; very knowledgeable in his expertise; committed to the achievement of all students; providing the reassurance of our self-worth in the job market; having a sincere interest in his students' coursework and their lives."

The UW-RF Faculty Senate initiated the award because the institution has recognized outstanding teaching through the Distinguished Teacher Award. The Senate felt it was appropriate to recognize good advising and appointed a selection committee to seek out an adviser of the year.

"Many faculty members feel good advising and good teaching are important responsibilities of a faculty member," said Professor Sheue Keenan, advising committee chair. "Stephen has excellent advising skills and a sincere interest in helping his advisees achieve their career goals."

Olsen admires the professors at UW-RF and feels he is just doing what any other professor on campus does.

"Most of the faculty are here at this University because they want to help students," Olsen said. "We can best serve our students with teaching and advising, which is important to most faculty."

Olsen is very grateful to have received the award.

"It's a nice symbolic award," Olsen said. "Tons of faculty work hard and take time for their advising period. It's real nice to be acknowledged."

One aspect of teaching that Olsen enjoys is watching his students grow and learn.

"Working with students and watching them grow over the four years is my favorite part of the job," Olsen said. "They grow intellectually and mature with time. It's a good and exciting feeling."

He appreciates the advising period because he sees it as an opportunity to get to know his students on a more personal basis.

"It's a way for me to keep in touch with my students. Working with students is one of the primary reasons I am here."