NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN

The Women of Marshall Awards honor individuals whose leadership, advocacy, scholarship, and service advance gender equity, inclusion, and community empowerment at Marshall University and beyond. Nominations should provide specific examples demonstrating impact, leadership, and alignment with the mission of the Women’s Center.

Impact Award

The Impact Award honors an individual whose sustained efforts have significantly improved opportunities for women and gender-diverse individuals.

 

Faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, or community partners

 

• Leadership in initiatives, programs, policies, or activism that promote equity and inclusion
• Long-term or large-scale impact affecting institutional culture or community outcomes
• Advocacy that challenges barriers, stereotypes, or inequities
• Integration of equity principles into professional, academic, or service work
• A record of mentorship, collaboration, or empowerment of others

Unity in Action Award

This award recognizes individuals whose leadership and advocacy pave the way for future generations through mentorship, education, and coalition-building.

 

Faculty, staff, or community members affiliated with Marshall University

 

• Sustained commitment to gender equity and social justice
• Excellence in mentorship, teaching, or leadership development
• Active engagement in campus and/or community initiatives
• Ability to build inclusive environments and foster collaboration across differences
• Contributions that create lasting pathways for underrepresented or marginalized groups

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award honors a career-long commitment to advancing gender equity, social justice, and civic engagement.

 

Individuals with a long-standing affiliation with or its surrounding community

 

• Decades of sustained advocacy, leadership, or service
• Significant contributions to institutional growth, equity, or public engagement
• A legacy of mentorship and influence across generations
• Scholarly, professional, or community work that reflects inclusive values
• Enduring impact that extends beyond a single role or initiative

Marshall University proudly announces the 2025 Women of Marshall Award Recipients, honoring exceptional women who have demonstrated leadership, advocacy, and a commitment to equity and community impact. These awards celebrate women who exemplify the values of unity, inclusion, and transformative change through education, service, and civic engagement.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Montserrat Miller

Executive Director, John Deaver Drinko Academy, Marshall University

Dr. Montserrat Miller receives the 2025 Women of Marshall Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding contributions to academia, civic engagement, and women’s empowerment at Marshall University. Since joining the faculty in 1996, Dr. Miller has become a cornerstone of inclusive education and interdisciplinary scholarship. Her acclaimed book, Feeding Barcelona, is just one example of her scholarly impact.

As Executive Director of the John Deaver Drinko Academy, Dr. Miller has championed civic engagement, expanded programs focused on constitutional democracy, and uplifted marginalized voices—especially women—through education and dialogue. Her leadership and mentorship extend far beyond the classroom, with active involvement in organizations such as the YWCA and the League of Women Voters.

Her unwavering dedication to Marshall’s mission and her transformative influence across the campus and community make her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious lifetime award.

Unity in Action Award: Dr. Cynthia Jones

Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Dr. Cynthia Jones is honored with the 2025 Unity in Action Award for her tireless work promoting gender equity, social justice, and educational empowerment at Marshall University. As an Associate Professor in the School of Pharmacy, Dr. Jones has mentored countless students, with a special focus on supporting women and underrepresented minorities.

She is a leader on campus and in the community, championing diversity through committee work and advocacy in local organizations. A respected researcher in biopharmaceutics and inclusive learning environments, Dr. Jones blends scientific excellence with compassionate leadership.

Her lifelong mission to uplift others and drive systemic change exemplifies the values of this award.

Impact Award: Dr. Huanshu Yuan

Assistant Professor, College of Education and Professional Development

Dr. Huanshu Yuan receives the 2025 Impact Award for her outstanding efforts in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion at Marshall University. Her research and teaching focus on identity development, intercultural understanding, and challenging harmful stereotypes such as the Model Minority Myth and Bamboo Ceiling.

As a passionate advocate for Asian and international student communities, Dr. Yuan creates inclusive academic spaces that foster cultural affirmation and belonging. Her scholarly work and mentorship have reshaped the university’s approach to diversity and have made a lasting impact on students and faculty alike.

Catalyst for Change Award: Lillian Hager, B.S.

Student Leader, Advocate, and Entrepreneur

Lillian (Lily) Hager is the 2025 recipient of the Catalyst for Change Award, recognizing her inspiring leadership and activism in support of women’s rights, student safety, and community well-being at Marshall University.

A dedicated student advocate, Lily has led gender equity research, organized harm-reduction programs, and created student-led initiatives for health, safety, and education. She has held influential roles in Greek life, supported Title IX efforts, and founded a philanthropic small business centered on empowerment for her sorority Delta Zeta.

Her work reflects deep compassion, innovative thinking, and a bold commitment to creating positive change for all members of the university community.