CHSSA Recognizes Recipients of New College Awards

UNCW’s College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts recognized its first group of honorees for the CHSSA Faculty and Staff Awards at Convocation, alongside retirees and other accomplished faculty members.

New this year are the CHSSA Staff Excellence Award, the CHSSA Teaching Award and the CHSSA Service Award. Together, with another forthcoming award, they embody the college’s pillars: Inspired, Connected, and Prepared.

The CHSSA Teaching Award honors a faculty member who has gone above and beyond preparing students with exceptional teaching practices, innovative course design and a commitment to student success. Dr. Abigail Upshaw, assistant professor with the Department of Art and Art History, was the first faculty member to receive this award.

Upshaw’s colleagues spoke to her curriculum development skills and her dedication to creating opportunities for mentorship and profound high-impact student experiences that draw from diverse sources and methods. As Associate Dean Dr. Paul Townend put it, “she brings the community to students and students to the community.”

The CHSSA Service Award honors a faculty member who exemplifies dedication to fostering connections, contributing to the university and broader community to enhance members’ quality of life. Dr.Colleen Reilly, professor of English and president of the UNCW Faculty Senate, was named the first winner this year. 

Alongside her extensive involvement in university committees and centers, nominators praised her mentorship and development of the professional writing program. Those on the Faculty Senate Steering Committee remarked on her positive outlook and capable handling of the role, “finding ways to make significant and lasting improvements to the operations of the Senate while managing it all — and while teaching exceptionally well and publishing at a high level.” 

The CHSSA Staff Award acknowledges a staff member who has shown exemplary performance, dedication and support to the college community. Dr. Maggie Bannon, director of the college’s Academic Resource Center, was the first to receive it this year.

Bannon, who’s worked at UNCW for 20 years, was recognized for her dedication to maintaining a positive morale among her team and working tirelessly to enhance the student experience. At Convocation, Assistant Dean Gail Killman described her as “passionate, selfless, empathetic and an advocate for all students.”