OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM) faculty and staff were honored for their contributions to the College and for their milestone years of service during the annual Recognition Day.
“I’m in awe of all that you do to ensure that our students receive a high-quality education and a meaningful college experience,” said President Heather Smith. “Your dedication to the mission of the College and to supporting our students is apparent in the work that you do every day.”
During Recognition Day, which took place August 20, two faculty and two staff received the Inspiring Excellence awards. Recipients are nominated by their peers and selected by the leadership cabinet.
“These are educators and professionals who bring out the best in others. Who lead with purpose. Who create space for students and colleagues to grow and thrive,” Smith said.
The faculty who received the award were Amanda Roe, assistant dean of sciences and professional studies and program director of biology, and Tracey Toney, associate professor of nursing.
“Dr. Roe inspires excellence through her respectful treatment of others, creative problem solving and determination,” her nomination letter said. “While she juggles the many tasks of her formal positions, she manages to find the energy and drive to surpass expectations, to make a workspace that people enjoy, develop activities and opportunities for students and faculty, and present CSM in its very best light.”
“Dr. Toney exemplifies every quality this award honors, exemplary service, a positive presence and an unshakeable dedication to this community. She doesn’t just inspire excellence. She models it every day,” her nomination letter said.
The staff who received the award were Robyn Kniffen, executive assistant to the president, and Andrea Loll, assistant vice president of enrollment services.
“What makes Robyn especially deserving of this recognition is that so much of her impact happens quietly, behind the scenes. She has never been one to seek the spotlight. She simply does the work and does it with care, so that the people around her, including me, are able to do our jobs well,” Smith said.
“Andrea’s leadership has produced amazing success reflected in the fall 2026 enrollment and visits, and her positive attitude and work ethic inspire her staff to excel,” her nomination letter said. “It takes courage, willingness and interpersonal skills to do what she has accomplished.”
In addition to the Inspiring Excellence Awards, faculty and staff were recognized for milestone years of service ranging from 35 to five years.
Years of Service Milestones
35 years
Kathleen Zajic, professor of nursing
25 years
Katty Petak, senior director of alumni relations
20 years
Christi Glesmann, assistant dean of undergraduate health sciences and professor of nursing
Darrick Armstrong, safety and security officer
15 years
Kelly Murphy, associate professor of mathematics
Keri Rodriguez, head golf coach
Jennifer Rose-Woodward, associate professor of education
10 years
Kristofer Czerwiec, assistant vice president of operations
Donna Dawson, administrative assistant in nursing
Jennifer Grove, associate professor of biology
Mary Lopez, instructor of nursing
Beth Minton, program director for Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
Megan Ray, director of the undergraduate nursing program, associate professor of nursing
Michael Roberts, safety and security officer
Heather Stigge, associate professor of biology
Mark White, director of instructional design
5 years
Mary Barber, administrative assistant in athletics
Ian Bonder, program director of kinesiology and exercise science, instructor of kinesiology
Anthony Cole, registrar
Ruben Gonzalez, general maintenance
Sarah Hamik, assistant dean of student success
Mia Jackson, instructor of nursing
Janet Kneiss, associate professor of physical therapy
Carolyn Nelson, instructor of nursing
Alexander Scharmann, director of clinical education, assistant professor of physical therapy
Veronica Thompson, instructor of nursing