Each year, the Idaho State University Alumni Association honors Bengal excellence through a series of prestigious awards celebrating students, alumni, friends, and athletes who exemplify the spirit and values of ISU. From rising student leaders to accomplished professionals and standout athletes, these awards showcase the incredible impact of the Bengal community.
OUTSTANDING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Recognize graduating seniors who demonstrate exceptional leadership, academic success, and service to the university and community. These students represent the best of ISU’s future alumni.
Jaden Klein, CAL, Bachelor of Music (Piano)
Abigail Card, CAL, Honors Bachelor of Arts (Anthropology with a Minor in Art History & Geotechnology)
Jayce Packer, CoB, B.B.A, Accounting and Finance
Callie Swallow, CoE, Bachelor of Arts (Blended Early Childhood Education)
Corrine Deakin, CoH, Bachelor of Science (Dental Hygiene)
Sierra Condie, CoP, Pharmacy
Kyle Ruud, CoT, A.A.S. Computerized Machining
Xavier Christy, CoSE, Honors Bachelor of Science (Biology)
Jaden Palmer, CoSE, Honors Bachelor of Science (Nuclear and Mechanical Engineering)
Norra Cardillo, Graduate School, Masters of Art (History)
Virginia Holmgren, Graduate School, Doctor of Nurse Practice
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Honor alumni who have reached significant milestones in their careers while maintaining strong ties to ISU. These recipients inspire with their dedication, innovation, and contributions to their fields.
Dr. Lily Gaia Ye, CAL, Bachelor of Arts (Fine Arts Studio 2008)
Dr. April Fritch, CAL, Clinical Psychology (2007)
Sandee Moore Gehrke, CoB, Bachelor of Science (Healthcare Administration 2003)
Ronda Black, CoE, Bachelor of Arts (English Education 1971), Masters of Education (Curriculum & Instruction 1990), Administration Certificate (1997)
Lorraine Backstrom, CoH, Bachelor of Science (Nursing 1967)
Dr. Cathy Cashmore, CoP, Doctor of Pharmacy (1993)
Tracy Ellwein, CoSE, Bachelor of Science (Engineering 1993)
Rena Carlson-Lammers, DVM, CoSE, Bachelor of Science (Zoology 1984)
Nestor Machuca, CoT, Welding (2011)
Keith Bybee, Graduate School, Master of Public Administration (2004)
Dr. Kendra Westerhaus, Graduate School, Master of Clinical Psychology (2008), Doctor of Clinical Psychology (2012)
HOMECOMING AWARDS
Celebrate alumni and friends of the university who have shown outstanding loyalty and service. These awards are a cornerstone of ISU’s annual Homecoming festivities, highlighting those who have gone above and beyond in support of their alma mater.
Gary & Susan Campbell, CoB, Finance (1972) & Finance (1981) Parade Grand Marshals
John Kent, William J. Bartz Award
Laura L. Hill, BA, Education (1983), President’s Medallion
Catherine Rider, Health Education (2013), Athletic Administration (2015), Young Alumni Award
Richard Luebke, CAL, Physical Education (1976), ISU Distinguished Alumni Award
Dave Harris, CAL, Corporate Training (1999) ISU Distinguished Service Award
Joanne Tokle, ISU Achievement Award
SPORTS HALL OF FAME
Inductees are former Bengal athletes, coaches, and contributors who have made lasting impacts on ISU athletics. Their achievements on and off the field continue to inspire generations of Bengals. Please help us recognize the award recipients from this past (and future) year’s events.
Dan Taylor, BA/BS Physical Science (1984)–Football
David Schroeder, BA/BS Business Management (2005), MA/MS Business Administration/Finance (2009)–Basketball
George Kyvernitis, BA/BS Marketing (2000)–Tennis
Kelly Rae, BA/BS Physical Education (1982)–Softball, Lifetime Achievement Award
Lindsey Reed Ahumada, BA/BS Physical Education with an emphasis in Sport Management (2014)– Basketball
Vicky Galasso, BA/BS Physical Education (2015)–Softball