ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø

Outstanding Employee Award: Senior Leadership
Yolanda Bisbee, Executive Director
Office of Tribal Relations

Dr. Yolanda Bisbee is and enrolled Nez Perce Tribal member and has a rich Mexican American background. Dr. Bisbee has thirty-six years of work experience at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø. She has completed her Master’s in Higher Education Leadership and a Doctorate in Education from the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø. Dr. Bisbee, serving as a member of the President’s Senior Leadership Council and the Executive Director of Tribal Relations, provides counsel to the president, provost and administration regarding Native American/Indigenous national and local issues for strategic planning and policy development; works on program development, implementation and evaluation of tribal related activities that further the university’s strategic plan; serves as the point of contact for Indigenous issues; and develops educational materials and protocols regarding tribal/university issues. She is responsible for the oversight of the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø Tribal Nations Student Affairs office and the development Indigenous recruitment and retention.

Dr. Bisbee has over 31 years of experience working on federal grants where she has served as the director of the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) for 15 years, which is funded under the Office of Migrant education and has served over 8 years as a program coordinator for the Federally funded TRIO grant Upward Bound. Yolanda has served as the principal investigator/co-PI for several projects such as the LSAMP Bridge to Doctorate, Indigenous Knowledge for Effective Education Program, New Beginnings for Tribal Students (NBTS) and the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP). Dr. Bisbee is a former first-generation participant of the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø Upward Bound Program and is very knowledgeable of the barriers facing multicultural and Indigenous students at the secondary and post-secondary levels. Her background in student support services has contributed to the development of culturally responsive recruitment and retention practices that benefit Indigenous and Multicultural students.

Dr. Arthur Maxwell Taylor Excellence in Diversity Award — Staff
Outstanding Team Member – Financial Aid FAFSA Project Team
Meggie Cafferty, Associate Director of Scholarships
Office of Student Financial Aid Services

Meggie Cafferty is a dedicated scholarship management professional with extensive experience in student financial aid administration at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø. As Associate Director for Scholarships in our Student Financial Aid Office, she leads the strategic administration of institutional and donor-funded scholarships. Meggie collaborates closely with faculty, staff, and campus partners to enhance scholarship accessibility and ensure compliance with institutional, state, and federal policies and donor intent. She specializes in process improvement, leveraging technology to streamline scholarship awarding, and using data-driven approaches to support student success. With a strong background in higher education financial services, she is committed to fostering equitable access to funding opportunities that help students achieve their academic and professional goals. Meggie’s expertise in policy development, stakeholder engagement, and scholarship stewardship positions her as a leader in student financial support services.

Fun Fact: Cafferty has three sweet kiddos, Penelope (7), Daith (4), and Aurora (1), who she absolutely adores, and a supportive partner, Dave. In her spare time (ha!), she loves to be active, teach yoga, and spend downtime with family and friends. She loves to travel when she can and appreciates the richness that a diverse life experience provides. She is also very appreciative of her undergraduate years spent at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø, and the friendships found in her Greek organization, Gamma Phi Beta. One day when life slows down, she would love to get back into skiing and recharge her yoga teaching skills with a new 500hr training.

Outstanding Team Member – Financial Aid FAFSA Project Team
Daniel Carlos, Interim Director of Financial Aid

Daniel (Danny) Carlos was born and raised in California to a family of first-generation immigrants. He has experienced firsthand the transformative power of higher education which fuels his deep commitment to helping UI students achieve their dreams. Carlos earned his bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona and became a Vandal in 2021 with a Master of Public Administration. He has steadily advanced in his career since 2012. Carlos has volunteered in various roles for regional and national professional organizations. He considers himself incredibly fortunate and privileged to work alongside the brilliant minds of Financial Aid, SEM, and the Greater Campus Community.

Fun Fact: Before higher ed, Carlos worked in the film industry and his favorite gig was a movie/tv show extra. He gets a lot of satisfaction from shoveling snow and enjoys the stillness of a snowy winter night.

Outstanding Team Leader – Financial Aid FAFSA Team
Randi Croyle, Former Director of Financial Aid

Randi Croyle is an accomplished Director of Financial Aid with over a decade of experience in higher education administration, specializing in financial aid operations, process optimization, and technology integration; with six years at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø in Strategic Enrollment Management as the Director of Financial Aid. Currently transitioning to the role of Enterprise Application Development Manager with the Office of Information Technology (OIT) at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø. During her time as Director of Financial Aid at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø, Randi led transformative initiatives that significantly improved operational efficiency and student services. Notably, she successfully transitioned the office from a paper-based system to a fully digital format, implemented remote work solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic, and utilized econometric modeling to optimize financial aid packaging, which helped drive double-digit enrollment growth and the largest freshman class in university history. Randi also oversaw the administration of over $100 million in financial aid and directed the implementation of the ScholarshipUniverse software system, enhancing the management of $15 million in endowed scholarships.

In addition to these accomplishments, Randi was a key leader in integrating Softdocs forms into the university's operations, developing more than 40 forms—more than the rest of the university combined. This initiative streamlined administrative processes and improved service delivery. Randi also led the department through the significant overhaul of the FAFSA simplification process, which had a profound impact on the way financial aid processes were structured and implemented across campus. Throughout her tenure, Randi had the privilege of working alongside a talented and dedicated team in the Financial Aid office. Together, they made significant strides in improving the student experience and advancing the university’s mission. Looking ahead, Randi is excited to apply her extensive experience in financial aid and technology integration to her new role as Enterprise Application Development Manager in OIT. She is eager to continue contributing to the university’s success, supporting innovation, and collaborating with talented colleagues across campus to drive positive change.

Fun Fact: Croyle became a Master Gardener through the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø Extensions office this past year.

Staff Education Award
Dominic Dorigo

Dominic Dorigo is a second-year student at the U of I double majoring in Business Marketing and Journalism. He is the son of Emily, a two-time U of I Alumnus, who has worked in the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences for the last 20+ years. Dominic is very active in the Honors Program and has lived in the Honors House his first two years and will continue living there next year. He is very active in the residence hall activities in the Honors House LLC and enjoys the community environment that the LLCs provide to UI students. Dominic is also an active participant in the e-sports program here on campus. He is the Valorant JV coach and a member of the Varsity Mario Kart team. Dominic aspires to work with sports teams in the future whether it be e-sports or traditional sports while traveling and enjoying the world around him.

Outstanding Team Member – Financial Aid FAFSA Project Team
Josh Escusa, Enterprise Developer I

Josh Escusa is an Enterprise Developer at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø, where he builds and supports enterprise applications that keep systems running smoothly. Over the past year, he's helped develop custom forms in Softdocs and update Banner programs to improve workflows and ensure compliance. He's worked at the university for nine years, starting in Financial Aid. Early on, he helped launch and manage the BEAMS program, which gave him a strong foundation in both the technical and student service sides of higher ed operations. He enjoys creating tools that make processes more efficient and support the people who rely on them every day.

Fun Fact: Escusa loves spending time with his son—whether they’re playing Minecraft together or just hanging out.

Outstanding Team Member – Financial Aid FAFSA Project Team
Trevor Humble, Technical Product Manager

Trevor Humble earned his bachelor’s degree in Chinese from the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø and is currently pursuing a master’s degree with a focus on animation. He started his career at U of I in Financial Aid before moving into a more technical role, and now works as a Technical Product Manager helping to bridge the gap between campus technology systems and the people who use them. He’s known for his collaborative approach and attention to detail, whether working with developers or end users. Trevor enjoys solving problems and making sure projects stay on track while actually meeting real needs.

In addition to his regular work, Trevor is helping to launch Paradise Pictures, a student animation studio that offers hands-on experience to aspiring digital artists. The project brings together his technical background and creative interests, and reflects his ongoing commitment to supporting student talent at U of I.

Fun Fact: Humble is a Moscow Local who found his way back here after living and working on five continents.

Outstanding Employee Award: Technical/Paraprofessional Employee
Renee Jensen-Hasfurther, Business Manager I
College of Science

Renee Jensen-Hasfurther was born and raised in Moscow and began her career at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø in 2016 formerly the Geography department, in College of Sciences. Following a merger with Geology, the Earth and Spatial Sciences department was formed! Where she currently is a Business Manager I, and the sole staff member of the department. Renee enjoys her role working with students, faculty, and staff across campus, and with employees around the State of Idaho. She currently manages $20 million in active sponsored project awards, several more million in Gen Ed, Course fees, foundation funds as well as current special project initiatives, and multiple proposals for the Earth and Spatial Sciences department.

Renee is an active member of Staff Council and the leadership team. She has been asked to serve on various software implementations groups and other working groups, such as Chrome River, Jaggaer, OSP DGA mentoring, College of Science Safety, General Counsel and EDL training and many more! After the pandemic she worked hard trying to reconnect the students and started the ESS grad connectivity weekend camping trip to Dworshak, which has turned into an annual event for the department. As well as hosting other events throughout the year. Renee is honored to be a Vandal and appreciates all the wonderful Colleagues she gets to work with daily!

Fun Fact: In her spare time, Renee enjoys spending time with her family (Tony, Kelsey, Andrew), fishing, outdoor activities, and loves visiting with her 95-year-old Grandma. She is actively involved in the community (Moscow/Genesee) with sporting events, church, and various other volunteer needs when asked.

Lawrence C. McBride Prize
Jana Joyce, Department Manager of Math and Statistical Science
College of Science

Jana Joyce started working at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø in 1993 in the Department of Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. She then worked in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences before changing to her current position in the Department of Mathematics in 1998 (which later became the Department of Mathematics and Statistical Science). Before coming to the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø, she worked in three other large academic research institutions in mathematics and statistics departments as well as for a statistical software company, so when she finally landed back in the world of mathematics and statistics, she knew that she was back where she belonged. Because she worked part time for the Department of Mathematics for many years of her career at UI, she was able to work on special projects developing grant proposals and providing financial management for other UI departments and colleges when there was a need. This gave her a unique opportunity to connect with several colleges and university offices while continuing to work in her true comfort zone of mathematics and statistics.

Having worked at several academic institutions, she feels that the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø is a very special place as the people here really care about each other and the success of our institution. She knows that we offer the highest quality of education and research in a talented and collaborative environment. Helping students and faculty is what brings her the greatest job satisfaction. She treasures connecting with UI alumni around the world. In 2020, Jana received the honor of being named an honorary member of the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø Alumni Association, which is one of her greatest honors until now. Having worked on many projects that involved the work of Larry McBride, this award is very special and means a lot to Jana as she will always have the greatest respect and admiration for Larry and all he did for this institution.

Fun Fact: In her spare time Joyce enjoys doing wildlife photography and traveling with friends and family.

Outstanding Employee Award: Service/Maintenance
Connor Knickerbocker, Recycling and Solid Waste Technician
Facilities

Connor Knickerbocker was born and raised in Moscow, Idaho. After high school he briefly attended the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø before beginning his career as a custodian in 2015. In 2022, he transitioned to the Recycling, Surplus, and Solid Waste team. During his tenure there, Connor played a pivotal role in developing Surplus into its current state before it was transitioned from Facilities Management to Asset Accounting under the Controller's Office. He subsequently focused his efforts on data collection, analysis, and financial operations within the Recycling and Solid Waste team, while also contributing to the collection of recycling and solid waste across campus.

Fun Fact: In the moments he carves out for himself, there's nothing he cherishes more than gathering with friends for exhilarating games that light up spirits. He revels in the beauty of nature, losing himself in its wonders, and nothing quite compares to the thrill of shooting hoops, where every swoosh and bounce echoes the joy in his heart.

Outstanding Employee Award: Administrative Assistant
Mónica Martínez, Business Specialist
College of Education, Health and Human Sciences

Mónica Martínez is the daughter of a Mexican immigrant; a first generation migrant Mexican American who grew up in the Pacific Northwest and traveled to Los Angeles, CA for family gatherings. While in high school, she expressed her interest in Latin-American Studies to Angie Dorman, her teacher and U of I alumna. Angie reached out to Dr. Dale Graden, History Faculty, who referred them to Yolanda Bisbee, former College Assistance Migrant Program Director. She applied to the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø and received a C.A.M.P scholarship. She worked at the College of Education, Health and Human Services as a work-study student under the supervision of Nancy Morrison. After graduating as a first gen., with a double major in Latin-American Studies and Spanish, she worked at Washington State University, Tri-Cities, then again at U of I EHHS, before returning to WSU, Pullman as a High School Equivalency Program (H.E.P.) post-secondary and career services advisor for migrant students obtaining their GED. HEP is a sister program of CAMP and she was thrilled to give back to her community. In 2016 she was hired as a Bilingual Enrollment Specialist for Mt. Hood Community College and in 2019 transitioned to an Instructional Administrative Coordinator for the Health Professions department, where she assisted the dean, program faculty, students and health care constituents navigate continuous changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, she won MHCC’s Outstanding Staff Support Award. In July 2022, she returned to U of I’s EHHS for a 3rd time, as a Business Specialist III. She currently assists the Dean’s Office with Professional Development and the department of Movement Sciences with fiscal duties. Her niece, Daisy, is currently a freshman at U of I.

Fun Fact: Martínez enjoys watching movies and attending concerts (most recently attended the Marley Brothers Legacy Tour). Her favorite ban is Gondwana (Chilean Reggae), and she is hoping the Boston Celtics win their 19th NBA championship.

Outstanding Team Member – Financial Aid FAFSA Project Team
Brady Nelsen, Information Reporting Analyst

After transferring from Lewis-Clark State College to the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø as a math student in 2022, Brady Nelsen started a work study position with Student Financial Aid. Later that year, he took a full-time position as a financial aid counselor and was responsible for federal Pell Grant reporting and reconciliation. In March 2025 he began a new position with Student Financial Aid as an Information Reporting Analyst. In this new role he will be gathering information for various government entities as well as our partners across campus to ensure timely and accurate financial aid data reporting. Nelsen is currently working towards completing his bachelor’s degree in mathematics, and he looks forward to continuing his career at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø for years to come.

Fun Fact: Nelsen grew up in Sandpoint, Idaho, and when he's not working, he enjoys activities such as running, backpacking, and hunting.

Outstanding Team Member – Financial Aid FAFSA Project Team
Don Pierce, Enterprise Developer III

Don Pierce has worked in higher education for 30 years and has been with the Financial Aid Office since 2017. He previously worked for the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø College Agricultural and Life Sciences and Washington State University Extension, and he holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø.

Fun Fact: Pierce enjoys ice hockey, skiing, concerts and travel.

Outstanding Team Member – Financial Aid FAFSA Project Team
Paul Rumelhart, Enterprise Developer IV

A longtime resident of Moscow, Paul Rumelhart graduated from the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø in 1989 and has worked at the U of I for 35 years in tech-related roles.

Outstanding Employee Award: Non-Faculty Exempt
Luke Sheneman, Director of Research Computing and Data Services
Institute for Interdisciplinary Data Sciences

Luke Sheneman grew up in southern Idaho and attended the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø as an undergraduate, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science in 1995. After graduating, he moved to Silicon Valley, where he worked for various tech companies, both large and small, during the original Internet tech boom. One of the most formative experiences of his career was working at Netscape Communications, where he collaborated with some of the pioneers of the modern Internet.

In 2002, Sheneman returned to the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø to pursue a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, focusing on evolution at the intersection of computing and biology. After earning his doctorate in 2008 under Dr. James Foster, he joined the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø as a staff Data Manager within the NSF EPSCoR program. Since 2010, Sheneman has been dedicated to helping UI researchers make their valuable research data more accessible, interactive, and impactful. As the current Director of RCDS within the Institute for Interdisciplinary Data Sciences (IIDS), he leads a talented and innovative technical team that works on a wide range of exciting projects, from soil science and AI to supercomputers and black holes.  Sheneman is supported, always, by his amazing wife and three children.

Outstanding Team Member – Financial Aid FAFSA Project Team
Cassie Smith, Associate Director of Financial Aid

Cassie Smith currently serves as the Associate Director of the Financial Aid Student Experience team. Over the past 3 ½ years, Smith has led a dedicated team focused on improving the student experience through initiatives aimed at increasing FAFSA completion among new and returning students. She is responsible for key outreach efforts, communications, and the BEAMS (Better Education About Money for Students) financial wellness program. Smith is deeply passionate about supporting students and ensuring they receive the financial resources necessary to make attending the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø possible.

Fun Fact: When Smith is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family - going for nature walks, playing games, or watching movies with her husband and 3 kids.

Advising Excellence Award — Staff
Kaylena Townsend, Lead Academic Advisor
University Advising Services

Kaylena Townsend has been with the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø since December 2021, starting as an Access Consultant for the Center for Disability Access and Resources. She now serves as an Academic Advisor, supporting first- and second-year students within the College of Art and Architecture. Townsend is passionate about helping students with a variety of strengths and experiences feel supported, equipped, and empowered to achieve their personal, educational, and professional goals. Drawing from her experience in the disability field, she strives to employ an adaptable and accessible approach to student support.

Townsend holds a B.A. in Communication Studies from the University of Montana and will graduate this May with an M.S. in Adult Organizational Learning and Leadership from the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø. She lives in Moscow with her husband, Kevin, Social Media Coordinator for University Communications and Marketing, and their 12-year-old son, Liam.

Fun Fact: Townsend is passionate about people's stories, whether from her students, colleagues, or the books she reads. Fueled by her love of reading, Townsend challenges herself to read 100 books each year. She also grew up in a literal ghost town in Montana that is featured in several "Montana Ghost Town" coffee table books.

Outstanding Employee Award: Skilled Trade
Rick Wilkins, HVAC/R Machine Shop Supervisor
Facilities

Rick Wilkins has been in HVAC trades for 36 years, with 16 years of those at the ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø. Currently, he serves as the HVAC and Machine shops Supervisor.

Fun Fact: Outside of work, he enjoys hunting, camping, hiking in the mountains, woodworking, and running a small goat farm with his grandchildren. Family is at the center of everything he does, and he take pride in both his professional and personal pursuits.