UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Know a colleague who goes above and beyond to strengthen student learning and academic excellence through meaningful program-level assessment? The Office of Planning, Assessment, and Institutional Research (OPAIR) has announced the call for nominations for the 2026–27 cohort of Assessment Champions.
OPAIR invites members of the Penn State community to nominate faculty, staff and academic administrators who demonstrate a sustained commitment to using assessment evidence to improve the quality and effectiveness of programs and enhance the student learning experience. Nominees should lead or actively contribute to assessment efforts focused on academic or cocurricular programs, rather than individual courses or activities.
Nominations are open through Sunday, March 29, and self-nominations are welcome. Visit the Assessment Champions website for nomination details.
“Assessment Champions exemplify how thoughtful, evidence-based reflection can drive meaningful improvement in student learning and academic programs,” said Executive Vice President and Provost and Fotis Sotiropoulos. “Their work strengthens our culture of continuous improvement and helps ensure that Penn State delivers degrees that don’t disappoint.”
Established in 2024, the Assessment Champions award recognizes faculty, professional staff and academic administrators who:
- Play a pivotal role in enhancing curricular and cocurricular learning outcomes.
- Advocate for continuous improvement in teaching and learning practices.
- Foster collaboration and promote assessment as a vital tool for student success.
Awardees receive a monetary award and the opportunity to work closely with peers and assessment professionals to further advance their assessment approaches. In addition to recognition within the Penn State community, Assessment Champions serve as mentors and thought leaders in advancing effective assessment practices.
Questions about this award can be submitted to assessment@psu.edu.