Faculty awards announced
April 28, 2020
Four Dakota State faculty members are being recognized through awards.
Dr. Kyle Cronin has received the Alexander “Sandy” Davidson Award for Excellence in Advising. The award, sponsored by Scott and Jenny Weatherill and Brian and Barb Harmdierks, recognizes Davidson’s years of service as Dean of Students and Director of Counseling at DSU. Cronin received this award for his continued involvement with students and the support he offers his advisees with internships and future jobs. He is an assistant professor in The Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences.
Dr. David Zeng has received the Merrill Hunter Award for Excellence in Research. The Hunter family sponsors the award to honor Merrill, a long-time Madison newspaper publisher, veteran, and former president of the DSU Foundation. Zeng received this award for the many grants he’s earned, research papers he has published, and his participation in conferences. Zeng is an assistant professor in the College of Business and Information Systems.
Dr. Michael Roach has received the DeWayne Mork Award for Excellence in Service. Mork was a long-time Madison businessman, philanthropist, and community leader. He was the South Dakota Retailer of the year in 2004. Roach is an assistant professor in the College of Business and Information Systems. He received the award for his instrumental part in building the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO) Club, and his continued involvement. Roach spearheads an expanding business plan competition and has developed an entrepreneurship advisory board and an Entrepreneur in Residence program to assist students with their ideas.
Dr. Austin O’Brien has received the Ernest Teagarden Award for Excellence in Teaching. Sponsored by the College of Education Dean Dr. Crystal Pauli, the award honors Teagarden, a professor emeritus of business at DSU. O’Brien received the award for his interest and patience helping students learn. O’Brien is an assistant professor in The Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences.