Several VCUarts faculty members were recently recognized by the university for their groundbreaking research, interdisciplinary collaboration and global partnerships, and student-center teaching and mentorship.
2025 National/International Recognition Award Recipients
The National/International Recognition Awards (NIRA) honor faculty whose scholarship has earned acclaim across borders and disciplines through groundbreaking research, global partnerships and leadership in their fields, elevating both their own profile and VCU’s reputation on the global stage.
- Nicole Killian, associate professor, Department of Graphic Design
- Jeremy Toussaint-Baptiste, assistant professor, Department of Sculpture + Extended Media
2025 Excellence in Pedagogical Innovation Awards
The Excellence in Pedagogical Innovation Award (EPIA) affirms the university’s belief that innovation in the classroom is foundational to academic excellence and celebrates faculty who are transforming the learning experience — those who bring bold, student-centered approaches to teaching, curriculum design, and accessible pedagogy. These honorees are shaping the future of education at VCU, often leading with creativity, compassion and a deep understanding of how students learn.
- Sterling Hundley, professor, Department of Communication Arts
- John Freyer, associate professor, Department of Photography + Film
- Emily Smith, assistant professor, Department of Interior Design