Melanie Ewing, Arkansas Tech University director of research and sponsored programs, was named a finalist for the 2026 LevelUP RMS Case Study Award by the Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI).
This international award recognizes case study submissions that are judged to demonstrate excellence in research administration practice, analytical depth and clarity of writing.
“This recognition comes as no surprise, as I see the hard work of Melanie and her staff day in and day out,” said Dr. Michael Bradley, dean of the ATU Graduate College. “This is a direct outcome of hard work, and I am proud ATU can continue to support our staff in their professional development.”
Ewing’s finalist project, entitled “Analysis and Review of The Needs and Challenges of the Research Administrator Workforce,” addresses insights and systemic needs within the modern research management ecosystem. In addition to the analytical case study, the designation recognizes Ewing’s completion of 39 LevelUP continuing education units in areas such as professional development, institutional compliance and operational excellence in research funding management.
“Receiving this recognition from SRAI is a profound honor, and the insights directly benefit our mission at Arkansas Tech,” said Ewing. “By studying workforce challenges, we can optimize ATU’s internal support structures to protect institutional compliance and maximize the success of our faculty’s grant proposals.”
Learn more about the ATU Office of Research and Sponsored Programs at www.atu.edu/orgs/orsp.
