Outstanding Non-Traditional Student AwardRodolfo “Mr. Rudy” Castillo
College of Continuing Education, Sacramento State
Rodolfo Castillo decided later in life to teach preschool. As an immigrant, he learned English as a second language, served in the U.S. Navy, and survived two cardiovascular surgeries to earn his bachelor’s degree in child development. At 75, he is the oldest graduate in Sacramento State’s Class of 2016.
Agile Development Certificate
Continuum College, University of Washington
In this two-course certificate program, participants do learn Agile, a popular method of delivering top-quality software on schedule through a collaborative, iterative approach. This certificate focuses on examining the key principles of Agile software development, which promote faster release cycles, better deliverables and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. The participants study specific policies and process improvements that can enhance interactions between developers and project and program managers.
Excellence in Teaching AwardCourtney Stewart
School of Teacher Education and Leadership, Utah State University
Dr. Stewart is a former middle/high school science/math teacher and principal. He received his M.Ed. and Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Foundations from Brigham Young University. Prior to joining Utah State University’s Instructional Leadership faculty, he held appointments as associate professor at University of Montana and Minnesota State University, Mankato. In addition to being a well-respected teacher, he was recently ranked as the third most influential person on campus. Dr. Stewart has previously directed principal academies and consulted for schools developing professional learning communities. He has published works within the areas of school reform, rural education, and online learning.
FlexU Intensive Course Program
Continuing Education & Community Engagement, University of Utah
Continuing Education & Community Engagement partners with the University of Utah’s academic departments to offer an Intensive Course Program (ICP). Students earn a semester’s worth of credit by taking a one-week, face-to-face intensive course, between semesters or during fall/spring break. ICP promotes student retention and helps students graduate sooner.
