The awards were directed by the Student Government Association and the nomination process was open to all students.
Included in the celebration were the recipients of the new Outstanding Staff Award, and recognition of years of service for Pittsburg State University employees reaching milestones.
Recipients also were recognized at a dinner with the provost and received commemorative medallions.
Anuradha Ghosh • Biology Department
Professor Anuradha Ghosh was described by students as an incredibly supportive mentor who welcomes students on research teams early on, allowing them to gain hands-on experience with her and build a strong foundation in research.
With a focus on environmental health and bacteriology, “Her guidance extends far beyond the classroom, as she actively looks for the best opportunities for her students and goes out of her way to help them succeed,” one student wrote.
“Whether it was providing me with the chance to conduct research under her supervision or assisting me in finding the right Ph.D. programs, she has always been there to offer encouragement, advice, and unwavering support.
Ghosh has helped students secure K-INBRE and STAR traineeships, and has guided them in research, bioinformatics, and academic growth.
Students said she is an excellent role model as a published researcher with a focus on insect-microbe interaction, food safety, pollutant detection, and antimicrobial resistance.
“Her dedication, kindness, and commitment to her students' success make her truly exceptional,” one student wrote.
Shannon Nicklaus • School of Construction
Professor Shannon Nicklaus (BS ‘95, MST ‘01, MET ‘08) is described by students as being a dedicated professor and mentor who goes beyond the classroom to help them grow personally and professionally.
As the PSU Mechanical Contractors Association Student Chapter Advisor, he connects students with industry professionals, securing internships and full-time jobs. He actively supports women’s involvement in the MCA Student Chapter, advocating for greater representation in the field.
His leadership extends to the School of Construction Leadership Council and the MCAA Career Development Committee.
He has secured funding and grants, ensuring students have the resources to explore new opportunities, attend conferences, and participate in competitions.
One student said Nicklaus went “above and beyond in helping me secure an internship that later turned into a full-time job.”
“After my previous internship did not work out as planned, Shannon didn’t hesitate to step in and use his industry connections to find a new opportunity for me. Within a week, I had a new internship lined up, which ultimately led to a job offer. His dedication to helping students succeed, even in challenging situations, has made a huge difference in my career and so many others,” the student wrote.
Amber Tankersley • Family & Consumer Sciences
Professor Amber Tankersley is an educator who goes above and beyond, students said.
With an emphasis in early childhood curriculum, she has worked with preschool-age children and been a director of preschool-aged programs. She has shared those experiences with students as future early childhood professionals.
“She has made classes engaging and tailored coursework to our needs,” one wrote. “She has played a pivotal role in my college journey, supporting my goal of teaching dual-immersion despite it not being a PSU program.”
Students wrote that she encourages them to not give up on their dreams.
“Dr. Tankersley has truly made a HUGE impact on my college career, and there is no way to thank her for everything she has done,” one wrote.
"She has taken time out of her day to meet with me to discuss my thoughts and ideas, as well as taking the time to seek resources for me to help me prepare for my future as an early childhood educator,” they wrote.
Tankersley was a 2015 and 2017 recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Awards for the College of Arts and Sciences.
-- Pitt State --