May 07, 2025

Fort Hays Honor Society recognizes outstanding faculty, staff at annual banquet

Posted May 07, 2025 9:45 AM
Academic Events Coordinator Harper Lubbers (Left) and FHHS President Alicia Feyerherm (Right) welcome the honorees to the banquet. Courtesy photo
Academic Events Coordinator Harper Lubbers (Left) and FHHS President Alicia Feyerherm (Right) welcome the honorees to the banquet. Courtesy photo

Fort Hays Honor Society

Fort Hays Honor Society (FHHS) hosted its 13th annual Fischli’s Excellence in Higher Education Banquet on Tuesday, April 29.

Named after avid supporters of Fort Hays Honor Society, Richard and Delores Fischli, the banquet recognizes faculty and staff members nominated by FHHS members.

“Everyone here tonight, whether it was in the classroom or outside of it, has made a significant impact on the lives of students,” FHHS President Alicia Feyerherm said. “Thank you for your continued support throughout our academic journeys.”

Honor society members were invited up individually to present certificates to the honorees.

The honorees are as follows:

Professional Advisor Britny Cox

“Britny Cox has been a constant source of guidance and support, helping me discover my major and always being there to answer my questions. Her encouragement and insight have greatly shaped my academic journey at FHSU.” - member Alyssa Mikkelson

Assistant Professor of Agronomy Iryna McDonald

“Dr. McDonald is dedicated to the success of her students. She spends countless hours of dedication to ensure that her students get the most out of their learning and campus experience. She accommodates her students' learning needs and diverse learning styles so that they can learn to the best of their ability in her classroom. Dr. McDonald is not only a professor, she is a mentor, advocate, and supporter for all students. Her input, guidance, and support has shaped me into the individual that I am today. Her unwavering support for students will shape how I teach, guide, and inspire my future students.” - FHHS member Kiley Whipple

Degree Analyst Brittney VonFeldt

“Brittney has impacted my time at FHSU by supporting me, challenging me, believing in me, and pushing me to be my best every single day! She wants me to succeed and has helped pave a path for my future!” - FHHS member Kami Whipple

Assistant Professor Accounting Cole Engel

“Dr. Cole Engel has been an impactful mentor for many FHSU students, including myself. As the Faculty Advisor for Alpha Kappa Psi, his guiding wisdom has been crucial to our Chapter’s success over the years. It is a pleasure to serve on the Executive Board with Dr. Engel, and we will be forever grateful for his generous help and outstanding contributions.” - FHHS member Harper Lubbers

Access Services Specialist Kathy Pfeifer and FHHS member Nevaeh Copenhaver. Courtesy photo
Access Services Specialist Kathy Pfeifer and FHHS member Nevaeh Copenhaver. Courtesy photo

Access Services Specialist Kathy Pfeifer

“Kathy’s kindness, patience, and unwavering support are truly inspiring. She has been by my side through every challenge and every triumph, offering comfort in stressful times and joy in moments of success. I am beyond grateful for her presence in my life.” - FHHS member Nevaeh Copenhaver

Assistant Professors of History Programs Gregory Atkins

“Dr. Atkins shows great enthusiasm in his own teaching and promotion of students' learning. I have previously taken one class of his, and I am currently in a class of his and they have been some of the best classes I have taken at FHSU! Dr. Atkins also helps support students during their research and he strives to make students feel welcome in the classroom. He also does an amazing job showing interest in students' research while they present making it much easier to present!” - FHHS member Whitney Befort

Lecturer Christianna Pruden

“Dr. Pruden has not only been one of the most engaging professors I have had, but she has also become an inspiration for my life outside of the classroom. Her dedication to my knowledge and growth within my pre-law goals are admirable. I am honored to have had the chance of learning from Dr. Pruden and the opportunity to have someone to look up to as I embark on my pre-law journey.” - FHHS member Nina Malliton

Professor Emily Breit

“Dr. Breit exemplifies dedication and passion in her commitment to both her students and education. She not only excels as an educator but also goes above and beyond by dedicating her time to student organizations. I’ve had the pleasure of participating in clubs she leads and joining her on invaluable trips. Through her leadership and inspiring example, Dr. Breit has shown me what it truly means to guide and uplift others.” - FHHS member Kassadee Dickey

Lecturer Ceena Lund

Ceena is an outstanding instructor, who has shown immense investment, and dedication towards her students' success! - FHHS member Franklin Owens

Associate Professor of Geosciences Jonathan Sumrall and FHHS member Kale Link. Courtesy photo
Associate Professor of Geosciences Jonathan Sumrall and FHHS member Kale Link. Courtesy photo

Associate Professor of Geosciences Jonathan Sumrall

“Over the past few years, Dr. Sumrall has taught me what it means to be a geologist. He has conveyed his passion for the sciences, and has worked tirelessly not just to teach, but to prepare his students for careers after graduation. He doesn’t hesitate to offer advice and resources, and always looks for ways to involve and support students, whatever their aspirations may be. There is rarely a dull moment in his classes, and my experience at FHSU has been richer because of it.” - FHHS member Kale Link

Assistant Professor  Ravindra (Ramsey) Muvva and FHHS Senior Vice President Htet Aung Win (Damian). Courtesy photo
Assistant Professor  Ravindra (Ramsey) Muvva and FHHS Senior Vice President Htet Aung Win (Damian). Courtesy photo

Assistant Professor Ravindra (Ramsey) Muvva

“He is always supportive and encouraging. Always ready to help with everything.” - FHHS member Htet Aung Win

Fort Hays Honor Society was established in 2008 and provides a community for high achieving students both on-campus and online. To join, students must have at least a 3.7 GPA. Continued involvement is contingent upon completion of community service hours and other criteria.