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VU honors faculty and staff with 2026 Peer Recognition Awards

Five Vincennes University Peer Recognition Award recipients pose together holding wooden award plaques in front of a blue VU backdrop.

October 20, 2026

VINCENNES, Ind. – Vincennes University recognized five faculty and staff members from across the University as recipients of 2026 Peer Recognition Awards during a reception on Monday, Oct. 19, in Governor’s Hall.

Recipients who make a lasting impact on the University are nominated annually for the exemplary service by their peers. The President's Advisory Committee selects the recipients. In recognition of their contributions, each receives a $1,000 award and a special plaque.

VU President Dr. Chuck Johnson said. "We congratulate the dedicated Vincennes University staff and faculty who have been honored with Peer Recognition Awards this year. Their passion and commitment to excellence enrich our University, and their daily contributions continuously elevate VU."

The 2026 recipients of a Peer Recognition Award are:

Headshot of Audrey Case who wears glasses and has straight brown hairAudrey Case, Assistant Mathematics Professor and Area Academic Coordinator – VU Jasper

A nominator said: “Audrey is such an excellent instructor that our Academic Center for Excellence has noticed a decline in the number of students who need tutoring since she joined VU Jasper. Audrey helps all students and not just those who are in her classes, and enthusiastically helps guide students toward their academic goals. She also works many campus events outside of normal hours, on her off days, and when she is off contract. She is a steady, supportive presence who is approachable and encouraging to students and peers alike. Audrey embodies the University’s core values through compassion, patience, and an unwavering commitment to student success.”

Headshot of Jillian Kiefer who has long straight red hairJillian Kiefer, Chair – Pharmacy Technology

A nominator said: “She serves as a reliable and collaborative resource for faculty, consistently supporting colleagues with curriculum updates, brainstorming innovative assessments, and improving content strategies. Jillian has also been instrumental in recruiting efforts such as Health Sciences and Human Performance expos, career fairs, Health Occupations Students of America meetings, and visits to high schools. She also secured grant funding and built strong community partnerships, including collaboration with Good Samaritan Hospital to develop impactful programs such as Future Healers and Healthcare Exploration Camp to target potential future students.”

Headshot of Samantha Riley who wears glasses and has long, straight brown hairSamantha Riley, Admissions Counselor and Community Engagement Specialist – VU Jasper

A nominator said: “She participated in classes and hands-on learning experiences to provide engaging and authentic tours. She also enhanced recruitment efforts by securing (and even assembling) two mini collaborative robots used in school outreach visits, which has been great in showcasing our Career Advancement Partnership (CAP) program. She proactively collaborated with VU and VU Jasper program directors to better promote their academic offerings and build stronger connections between the programming at both campuses. She redeveloped all Jasper Campus marketing materials, including the introduction of bilingual flyers improving accessibility and outreach to a broader community.”

Headshot of Ben Scott who has short hair and is smilingBen Scott, Associate Professor – Physical Therapist Assistant

A nominator said: “Ben consistently goes above and beyond, which was highlighted during the massive move to the new Health Sciences building. He was a behind-the-scenes leader, organizer, and most noticeably, transporter of office and lab supplies. He regularly worked with the Physical Plant in organizing the transportation of expensive lab equipment. All Health Sciences employees were assigned room packing dates, and Ben assisted each and every time, even on non-scheduled days. Ben stepped up to cover all PTA courses for the summer and half of a fall semester. He was crucial in ensuring that the students received a consistent, high-quality education.”

Headshot of Tricia Trent who has shoulder length hair and is wearing a white and black blouse Tricia Trent, Assistant Professor and Academic Area Coordinator for Business/Information Technology/Public Service departments – VU Jasper

A nominator said: “She demonstrated her dedication to her department by conducting extensive research with local industry partners to ensure the curriculum aligned with current workforce demands. She was instrumental in developing courses, marketing materials, and online learning options. What sets Tricia apart is her mindset. Whether helping a struggling student navigate coursework, assisting a colleague with a problem, or guiding a visitor through an unfamiliar process, she invests her time and care to ensure resolution. Her influence extends beyond individual interactions and she sets a standard for others with her patience, kindness, and persistence.”

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