DURANGO, Colo. — Fort Lewis College will celebrate the achievements of 10 outstanding faculty and staff members during the annual Employee Award Ceremony.
The event recognizes individuals whose dedication, innovation, and service have impacted the campus community. It will take place on Wednesday, April 16, from 3:30-4:30 pm in the Student Union Ballroom, followed by a reception in the Student Union Plaza.
This year’s honorees represent a broad cross-section of FLC’s mission-driven work, from academic excellence to campus safety and inclusion.
Fort Lewis College Achievement Award
This year, FLC is recognizing two outstanding recipients of the Achievement Award, which recognizes a faculty, staff, or administrative member who has demonstrated exceptional competence, dedication, and resourcefulness. Recipients show meaningful engagement in advancing academic, athletic, intercultural, Honors, or intramural programs; contribute through creative accomplishments, research, technical expertise, or professional development; lead innovative efforts that expand Fort Lewis College’s impact on students and the community; and exhibit strong leadership in educational, social, or professional initiatives.
Joslynn Lee, Ph.D., assistant professor of Chemistry Biochemistry
Joslynn Lee is a transformative force at Fort Lewis College. A nationally recognized scholar and mentor, Lee’s leadership advances Indigenous representation in STEM, fosters a culture of inclusion, and expands experiential learning opportunities for students.
Lee has led the reconciliation process at FLC, and her research has been published in peer-reviewed journals alongside FLC undergraduates. The National Academies of Sciences named her a Kavli Fellow, an honor reserved for the nation’s most promising scientists. She also co-leads the Four Corners Science and Computing Club, supported by a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative grant.
Beyond the classroom, Lee launched the FLC Outdoor Equity Group, connecting more than 75 BIPOC students to nature, community, and belonging. As her colleagues note, “Dr. Lee exemplifies and exceeds the criteria of the Fort Lewis College Achievement Award.” One student adds, “I can’t talk about Fort Lewis College without talking about Dr. Lee. She makes our campus a better place every day.”
Kendra Gallegos Reichle, Director of Student Well-being and Interim Associate Dean of Students
Gallegos Reichle’s impact on Fort Lewis College is both wide-reaching and deeply personal. A tireless advocate for holistic student support, she has redefined well-being in higher education—championing mental health, substance use prevention, and access to essential care.
Last year alone, Student Well-being programs engaged the community over 25,000 times, with 87% of student participants reporting increased feelings of belonging. From expanding access to Narcan and emergency contraception to launching culturally relevant nutrition initiatives through Grub Hub, Gallegos Reichle continues to shape a more responsive, inclusive campus.
“Kendra leads with courage and compassion,” wrote her nominator, Basic Needs Coordinator Stella Zhu. “I absolutely believe she is saving lives."
Faculty Awards
Kathy Wellborn Award for Teaching Excellence: Aurea Cortés-Palomec, Ph.D., Senior Lecturer in Biology
The Kathy Wellborn Award acknowledges the contributions of non-tenure-track lecturers and part-time instructors who have taught at FLC for multiple semesters. It is named after Kathy Wellborn, a former instructor known for outstanding teaching and mentoring skills in the Transitional Studies and First-Year Math Programs. The award recipient excels in classroom teaching and has a positive relationship with their students.
A first-generation college graduate and Indigenous scholar, Aurea Cortés-Palomec is celebrated for her dedication to teaching, commitment to student success, and passion for her field. Cortés-Palomec incorporates experiential learning into her classes, regularly taking students outdoors to explore native plant species where they can strengthen the connection between academic content and place.
"Dr. Cortés-Palomec is an outstanding educator, mentor, and role model who has made a lasting impact on her students and the Fort Lewis College community," wrote Julie Korb, Ph.D., in her nomination. "(Her) dedication to teaching, commitment to student success, and passion for her field make her highly deserving of the Kathy Wellborn Award."
Alice Admire Outstanding Teaching Award: Betty Dorr, Ph.D., professor of Psychology
The Alice Admire Outstanding Teaching Award recognizes a tenured or tenure-track faculty member at Fort Lewis College who has taught for at least four academic years and exemplifies excellence in classroom instruction, innovation in teaching, and meaningful engagement with students. Named in honor of former FLC professor Alice Admire, the award celebrates educators who demonstrate genuine care for students’ academic and personal growth.
In her 34 years at FLC, Dorr has earned a reputation as an engaging, inclusive, and innovative instructor. She recently transitioned her Evolutionary Psychology course to open educational resources, raising the bar for digital accessibility on campus.
In her nomination, Megan Wrona, Ph.D., an associate professor and licensed psychologist, said Dorr’s exceptional teaching record shows that she has helped her students and is also a teacher and mentor to junior faculty.
“Dr. Dorr is a dedicated, passionate, and engaging educator who deeply cares about her students’ learning and future success. Her humor, organization, and ability to create a supportive learning environment make her an invaluable asset to the institution.”
Featured Scholar Lorraine Taylor, Ph.D., associate professor of Tourism and Hospitality Management
The Featured Scholar Award recognizes excellence in course development and delivery, student advising and mentoring, and the creation of innovative instructional initiatives. Meant for non-tenured, tenure-track faculty, recipients of this award are campus touchstones for pedagogical practices in higher education.
A prolific researcher and mentor, Lorraine Taylor, associate professor of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the Katz School of Business, has published widely in peer-reviewed journals, co-authored student research, and led community partnerships through the Hawk Tank Business Plan Competition.
In a joint nomination, colleagues praised Taylor’s ability to elevate academic excellence across the institution. “Her research, teaching, and service portfolio is impressive for any faculty at any institution. Dr. Taylor is a regarded and valued leader who inspires new ideas and sets a high standard for all.”
Roger Peters Distinguished Professor Award: Michael Fry Ph.D., professor of History
The Roger Peters Distinguished Professor Award is named after a beloved Fort Lewis College professor whose enthusiasm and passion for learning were infectious.
Michael Fry has shaped the FLC community through 35 years of dedicated teaching, mentorship, and service. A Fulbright Fellow, Fry is known for supporting student research and leading FLC’s chapter of Phi Alpha Theta. His research on Guatemalan history and Ladino culture, including a forthcoming monograph and updated edition of his Historical Dictionary of Guatemala, reflects the scholarly depth he brings to the classroom.
“Always willing to help on committees and well respected across campus, Dr. Fry represents that generation of teacher-scholars here at FLC who have provided integrity, stability, and teaching effectiveness upon which our campus reputation is based,” wrote Ellen Paul, a professor in the History Department, in her nomination.
Staff Awards
Outstanding New Staff Award: Tanya Dalebout, assistant director of Admission for Campus Visits
This award recognizes a classified or administrative professional staff member who has been employed at FLC for at least two consecutive academic semesters but no more than three years and who demonstrates outstanding performance, contributes meaningfully to their department, builds strong relationships with colleagues, and improves efficiency through innovative practices.
Tanya Dalebout joined the Office of Admission in February 2023—just ahead of the busiest campus visit season—and immediately stepped into a critical leadership role. In the face of rapid transitions and significant departmental change, she became a steady, positive force for her team and the broader campus community.
“From day one, Tanya has handled every challenge with grace, positivity, and a can-do attitude. She brings an effortless authenticity and warmth that makes everyone around her feel supported. When our office experienced the loss of our Director, Tanya was the glue that held our team together. She took it upon herself to personally call staff members, even those outside of her supervision, to deliver the news with care, simply to support her colleagues. Without her, I don’t know how I would have made it through that incredibly dark time,” said nominator Hallie Bullock.
Outstanding Staff Award Kim Angel, program assistant for the FLC Police & Parking Services
The Outstanding Staff Award recognizes a classified or administrative professional staff member who has demonstrated consistent excellence and dedication in their role at FLC for at least four years. It honors individuals who excel in their duties, foster positive relationships with colleagues and the public, show a commitment to personal and professional growth and contribute meaningfully to the College’s development.
Kim Angel’s journey at FLC began as a student, and for the last 30 years, she has served in various departments, including Financial Aid, Accounting, Payroll, and, most recently, Police & Parking Services. Angel’s extensive experience across multiple areas of campus operations has made her a highly respected resource, and colleagues from different departments often consult her for her wealth of knowledge, as she consistently provides accurate solutions to complex issues.
“Kim was once an FLC student and understands their position,” said in his nomination Chief of Police Brett Deming, adding Angel will go out of her way to help students. “We often talk about serving students on campus and Kim has been doing this for 30 years. She is an incredible asset to this institution and should be recognized for her incredible service to students, faculty, and staff here at FLC.”
The Maria Cristina Grabiel y de la Guardia Award: Al Wolfe, assistant director, Gender & Sexuality Resource Center, Advisor for the Sexuality & Gender Alliance Club
The Maria Cristina Grabiel y de la Guardia Award honors an FLC staff member who demonstrates a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion—values embodied by Grabiel during her time at the College from 1998 to 2009. Known for her dedication to student support, inclusive practices, and social justice, she left a lasting impact as a mentor and leader. This award is open to classified or administrative professional staff who have been employed for at least two consecutive academic semesters, excluding previous recipients and individuals in senior leadership or faculty roles.
Al Wolfe is being recognized for their leadership in advancing LGBTQIAA2+ inclusion on campus through educational workshops, advocacy, and community-building initiatives such as the Queer Closet. Colleagues praised Wolfe’s warmth, humor, and unwavering commitment to fostering belonging at FLC.
Siarrah Gomez-Boyiddle, assistant director of El Centro de Muchos Colores and one of her nominators, praised their ability to create “environments where individuals from all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and valued,” noting that Wolfe’s warmth and humor make learning about DEI engaging and accessible. "Their dedication is evident not only in formal training sessions but in the everyday interactions where they educate, uplift, and empower those around them," Gomez-Boyiddle said.
Excellence in Service Award: FLC Police Chief Brett Deming
This award is designed to celebrate the contributions of employees who often complete responsibilities “behind the scenes.” The employee may not interact directly with students but deserves recognition for their enormous contributions to the student experience.
Chief of Police Brett Deming, who has served the college since 1998, is known for his calm leadership, professionalism, and around-the-clock dedication to the well-being of students, faculty, and staff. Nominators highlighted his ability to build trust and respond effectively in times of crisis.
“Chief Deming has been a steadfast presence at FLC since 1998, rising through the ranks to become the Chief of Police. His unwavering commitment to his work has earned him the respect and admiration of those who work with him. According to Director of Student Well-Being Kendra Gallegos Reichle, one of his nominators, “Chief Deming goes above and beyond for our community every single day—honestly, every hour of every day."