May 1, 2026
Northland is proud to announce its recipients of the annual NISOD Excellence Awards. The 2026 honorees include Adam Paulson (English Instructor), Michael Simmers (Mathematics Instructor), Karen Meine (Receptionist), and Lisa Gunderson (Student Success Advisor).
NISOD’s Excellence Awards recognize men and women each year who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment and contribution to their students and colleagues. In 1989, in connection with a University of Texas at Austin national study of teaching excellence, NISOD hosted its first ceremony honoring NISOD Excellence Award recipients. The response to that ceremony was so positive that NISOD began what has become the largest and most inspiring gathering that recognizes the contributions and achievements of community and technical college faculty, administrators, and staff.
“Northland’s faculty and staff consistently go above and beyond for our students, and this year’s NISOD honorees exemplify that commitment,” said Dr. Shari Olson, President of Northland. “Their dedication strengthens our classrooms, our campuses, and our communities. We are proud to celebrate their achievements.”
Excellence Awards recipients receive a specially cast, pewter medallion hung on a burnt-orange ribbon that they can wear proudly at campus events such as graduation ceremonies. In addition, they are listed in the NISOD Excellence Awards Booklet as well as on NISOD’s website.
“Sharing in the recognition of so many individuals recognized by their colleges for doing extraordinary work is something the entire NISOD Team looks forward to each year,” said Sheryl Powell, NISOD’s Interim Executive Director. “We’re honored to be able to play a part in celebrating their achievements.”
About NISOD
The National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) empowers faculty, staff, and administrators at community and technical colleges to support the needs of diverse students in the face of ever-present resource constraints. High-quality, easy-to-access professional development resources connect staff and faculty with applicable knowledge to grow their careers and improve instruction. Meaningful recognition programs can augment the reputation of individual students, employees, and institutions. But perhaps most valuable are the connections NISOD helps build among community and technical colleges to share ideas, strengths, and solutions. For more information about NISOD, visit www.nisod.org.