The Arkansas Tech University Graduate College recognized its top-performing students during the 2025-26 academic year and the faculty members who enriched their experience during an end of year awards reception at Doc Bryan Student Services Center on Thursday, April 30.
Shruti Bhandari of Dharan, Nepal, Armando Harper of Gurdon and Steven Watts of Dardanelle received the ATU graduate student of the year award, while ATU graduate student achievement awards were presented to Aleshia Maxwell of Booneville, Lynnlee Mitchell of Lavaca and Md Shaba Sayeed of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
“Our graduate students continue to set a high standard,” said Dr. Michael Bradley, dean of the ATU Graduate College. “They are balancing rigorous academic work with leadership, service and a clear sense of purpose.”
Dr. Pam Dixon and Dr. Robert Stevens received mentor awards from the ATU Graduate Student Council in recognition of their dedication to supporting graduate students.
Dixon is professor of school counseling and leadership at Arkansas Tech, while Stevens is associate professor of rehabilitation science.
“Mentorship plays a central role in the graduate experience,” said Michan Chowritmootoo, ATU graduate student services coordinator. “Faculty who invest in students in this way help shape their academic success and their future careers.”
ATU faculty members Dr. Matthew Hankins (major grant achievement), Dr. Robin Ghosh (interdisciplinary collaboration), Susan West (community outreach) and Dr. Patrick Hagge, Dr. Peter Dykema and Dr. Newton Hilliard (ethical research leadership) were recognized for their contributions to research and sponsored programs.
Leigh Swain of Danville received the Student Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Award. She is conducting her research on the role of community seed stewards in sustaining regional agricultural heritage and cultural knowledge under the mentorship of Dr. Joshua Lockyer, ATU professor of anthropology.
“Research at Arkansas Tech is growing in meaningful ways,” said Melanie Ewing, ATU director of sponsored programs. “These efforts reflect collaboration, innovation and a commitment to serving communities, the state and beyond.”
Justin Keller, grant coordinator in the ATU Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, served as master of ceremonies for the awards event.
“It meant a great deal to see so many people come together in support of our students,” said Bradley. “That kind of community is an important part of what we are building here.”
Learn more about the ATU Graduate College at www.atu.edu/gradcollege.
