University of Phoenix announces 2026 Faculty of the Year award recipients

Eleven faculty members recognized for excellence in teaching, student support and academic leadership during University's 50th anniversary year

PHOENIX, Sept. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Phoenix today announced the recipients of its 2026 Faculty of the Year Awards, recognizing 11 faculty members for their dedication to student success, excellence in teaching and meaningful contributions to the University learning experience.

The 2026 Faculty of the Year honorees represent colleges across the University and were recognized during a special awards celebration held Sept. 19 at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix. The annual awards recognize faculty members whose expertise, mentorship and commitment help learners progress toward their academic and professional goals during the University's 50th anniversary year.

"As we celebrate this milestone year, it is especially meaningful to recognize faculty who exemplify the impact dedicated educators can have on students' lives," said John Woods, PhD, provost and chief academic officer at University of Phoenix. "Through their guidance, professional expertise, care for students and commitment to teaching, these faculty members create meaningful learning experiences that help students pursue their educational and career aspirations."

University of Phoenix practitioner faculty bring extensive real-world expertise to the classroom, averaging 29 years of professional experience and 16 years of University teaching experience. This combination of industry knowledge and teaching experience helps students connect academic concepts with workplace application and supports the University's mission of serving working adult learners.

Among this year's honorees, Brett Novick, EdD, faculty member in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, reflected on the significance of the recognition.

"I am both honored and humbled to receive the Faculty of the Year award, especially following in the footsteps of so many wonderful and deserving educators at the university," said Novick. "My goal is to always provide the quality our students and community have come to expect from University of Phoenix. I learn so much from our students; they inspire me to be a lifelong learner and recognize the true definition of balance and resilience. It is a unique privilege to guide the next generation of mental health providers and work together to advance our field for a society in great need of competent practitioners."

The 2026 Faculty of the Year recipients are:

• Gina Coffaro, College of Education
• Karen Diggs, College of Business & Information Technology
• Patrick LaRose, College of Nursing
• Kimberly Mahr, College of Social & Behavioral Sciences
• Nita Magee, College of Nursing
• Scott McCalla, College of Doctoral Studies
• Valerie Merriwether, College of General Studies
• Brett Novick, College of Social & Behavioral Sciences
• Debra Sandberg, College of Health Professions
• Melissa Warren, College of General Studies
• Mel Waterhouse, College of General Studies

Several honorees shared reflections on what the recognition means to them and their opportunity to support students throughout their educational journeys.

"With this award, the value of what we do here at the University of Phoenix came into sharp focus," said Mel Waterhouse, faculty member at the College of General Studies. "It is an honor to work with such intelligent, caring professors, all united by the goal of helping a unique student population pursue its aspirations. With this trophy on my desk, I am even more excited to log in, and watch miracles happen."

Dr. Debra Sandberg, faculty member at the College of Health Professions, also expressed her appreciation for the recognition.

"Being named Faculty of the Year is a tremendous honor and one of the highlights of my career," said Sandberg. "The celebration weekend was first-class, and I am grateful to the remarkable event team who made every honoree feel special. Most importantly, this recognition reflects the privilege I have of supporting students in achieving their goals while connecting with outstanding colleagues across the University."

The 2026 honorees exemplify the role faculty play in advancing student success and academic excellence across the University. The awards celebrate educators whose experience, mentorship and dedication continue to shape meaningful learning experiences for students and contribute to the University's mission of serving working adult learners.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is Built for Real Life. 50 Years Strong. The University innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world through flexible online learning, relevant courses, academic AI pillars, and skills-mapped curriculum for associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs. Active students and alumni have access to Career Services for Life® resources including career guidance and tools. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

SOURCE University of Phoenix