Marian University celebrated its annual Faculty and Staff Appreciation Awards on Friday, April 25, 2025, honoring 61 faculty and staff members for their outstanding contributions to the university community. The recipients, nominated by both leadership and peers, were recognized for their dedication to student success and excellence in their professional roles.
The awards ceremony, a highlight of the academic year, included distinctions such as the Franciscan Values Awards, Advisor of the Year, and the Excellence in Teaching Award. This year’s honorees represented a broad cross-section of Marian’s staff and academic departments. The event underscored Marian’s commitment to fostering an environment where faculty and staff are empowered to innovate, mentor, and inspire students like Lori Rumreich, EdD, MBA, Marian’s associate professor of marketing and sales, whose leadership has propelled Marian’s business students to national prominence. “This is my second career (becoming an associate professor) and coming to Marian. It’s gratifying to know you’re making a difference in someone’s life.” Under Dr. Rumreich’s guidance, Marian’s business students consistently excelled in national marketing and sales competitions, including back-to-back victories at the Indiana University National Team Selling Championship and top finishes in the American Marketing Association Case Competition.
Another award winner, Rishani De Costa, an assistant professor of French, shared her experience finding a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, which encouraged her professional growth and her passion for helping students succeed. “Coming here to Marian, I felt proud and comfortable working here, she continued, “Usually, when you arrive at a new place, you fear not getting the help you need, but at Marian, I had help from Dr. Julia Bumgardner, Dr. Wendy Westphal, & other colleagues; so, I was confident in my work and serving the students.”
The Faculty and Staff Appreciation Awards recognized individual achievement and highlighted the collective impact of Marian University’s educators and staff. Their commitment continues to shape a vibrant academic community where students are prepared to excel in the classroom and beyond.