Ohio University Regional Higher Education faculty honored for outstanding achievements

Ohio University proudly announces the recognition of three outstanding faculty members from its regional higher education campuses for their exceptional contributions to teaching, scholarly activity and service. These awards celebrate the dedication and impact of these educators on their students and the university community.

“Since 2003, we have recognized outstanding regional campus faculty, and this year’s awardees once again exemplify excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service,” said Vice Provost for Regional Higher Education Lewatis McNeal. “It is an honor to work with such dedicated and talented faculty.”

The Regional Higher Education Outstanding Tenure Track Faculty and Outstanding Instructional Faculty awards acknowledge regional campus faculty members who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, scholarship and service over the past three years.

The 2024 award recipients

Victor Jones, assistant professor of instruction in theatre at OHIO Lancaster

Victor Jones received the 2024 Outstanding Instructional Faculty Award. He has served as the producing artistic director for 13 seasons, overseeing 40 major productions and more than 45 student theatrical showcases within OHIO Lancaster’s theatre program. Known for producing Broadway-quality performances, his shows are a highlight of the historic Lancaster Festival each summer.

“Receiving the RHE Outstanding Instructional Faculty award was a complete surprise. Starting the theatre program on the Lancaster campus 14 years ago, I never imagined this recognition. I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received over the years,” Jones said. He also announced two exciting upcoming events: “Breakfast with Belle and Friends” on July 13, from 9 to 11 am., and “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast,” part of the Lancaster Festival, running from July 21 and continuing from July 28 to August 4, 2024. Tickets can be purchased at this website.

Dr. Jacqueline Yahn, associate professor of middle childhood education at OHIO Eastern

Dr. Jacqueline Yahn was honored with the 2024 Outstanding Tenure Track Faculty Award. An expert in rural and Appalachian communities and schools, her research focuses on creating a teacher pipeline to rural schools, retaining the existing workforce and addressing societal issues in rural areas. Yahn directs the OHIO Rural Teacher Fellowship and is a proud third-generation OHIO graduate. She has been part of the OHIO Eastern Bobcat family for 11 years.

“Receiving this award is a career highlight, especially meaningful because my Eastern campus peers nominated me,” Yahn said. “Their dedication to our region's students and communities is truly inspiring, and their recognition is one of the greatest honors I could imagine.”

Dr. Kevin Cordi, assistant professor of education at OHIO Lancaster

Dr. Kevin Cordi was awarded the 2024 Outstanding Tenure Track Faculty Award and the 2024 Rising Star Teacher Award. As the middle childhood education coordinator at Ohio University Lancaster, he was recognized for his exemplary teaching and academic contributions both inside and outside the classroom. Cordi is an international professional storyteller and an author.

“I am honored to be among these amazing educators and fortunate to teach outstanding students alongside stellar faculty and staff,” Cordi said. “Being recognized in the community where I work is incredibly meaningful. I am humbled and honored to receive these awards and look forward to the great work we all do at OHIO Lancaster and Ohio University.”

The Rising Star Teacher Award recognizes early-career faculty members at Ohio University who have shown exceptional promise and impact. Amy Wolfe, assistant professor of teacher education in the Patton College of Education, was a finalist for this prestigious award.

Ohio University is immensely proud of these faculty members and their commitment to excellence in education and service. Their achievements reflect the high standards of Ohio University's regional campuses and their significant role in the academic community.