True Trojan Awards celebrate outstanding DSU faculty and staff

August 19, 2026

MADISON, S.D. - Dakota State University recognized faculty and staff members for their service, leadership, and contributions to the campus community with the presentation of the 2026 True Trojan Awards.

Human Resources Manager Alicia Entringer announced the recipients during the university's Fall Kickoff Breakfast on Monday, Aug. 17, at the Dakota Prairie Playhouse. Established in 2019, the True Trojan Awards honor employees whose work advances the university and supports its students, faculty, and staff.

"The stories shared remind us of the incredible work happening across campus every day, often behind the scenes and without recognition," Entringer said. "The ceremony gives us the opportunity to shine a light on some of the unsung heroes and celebrate the positive impact that makes our students, colleagues, and university great."

CSA Outstanding Contributor

Jena Martin, assistant director of Marketing Operations & Production Center, received the CSA Outstanding Contributor Award.

The award recognizes an employee who provides exceptional service to university stakeholders, develops creative solutions, takes initiative, assists wherever needed, and shares knowledge and expertise with others.

Martin was recognized for her forward-thinking approach and commitment to strengthening her team's work and the University's. Her nomination noted that she actively seeks opportunities to improve processes and bring forward solutions rather than waiting to be asked.

"Jena's contributions can be found throughout many of DSU's successes, and her dedication continually makes a positive impact on our campus community," Entringer said.

NFE Outstanding Contributor

Teresa Maier, sponsored programs analyst, received the NFE Outstanding Contributor Award.

Maier was honored for her efforts to make information more accessible, transparent, accurate, and readily available to DSU's research stakeholders, particularly project directors and investigators.

Her nomination highlighted her ability to identify challenges, develop solutions, and create systems designed to prevent future obstacles. Her commitment to continuous improvement has strengthened research support across the university.

Staff Outstanding Contributor

Kristen Uilk, director of Academic Support Services, received the Staff Outstanding Contributor Award.

Selected through student nominations, the award recognizes a staff member who contributes significantly to students' quality of life and academic success. Recipients foster positive environments, provide guidance, encourage personal and academic development, and remain approachable and accessible to students.

One student described Uilk as someone "whose heart beats for helping others" and praised her for providing encouragement to complete a degree and assistance in determining a future direction.

Faculty Outstanding Contributor

Dr. Jeffrey Elbert, assistant professor in the College of Arts & Sciences, received the Faculty Outstanding Contributor Award.

Also selected through student nominations, the award honors a faculty member who demonstrates a strong commitment to student success, engagement, mentorship, and learning beyond the classroom.

Elbert was recognized for creating meaningful opportunities for DSU students and area youth. Through hands-on science activities with elementary students, he helps young learners develop curiosity and enthusiasm while giving DSU students opportunities to strengthen their confidence, leadership, and communication skills.

"These experiences connect classroom learning to real-world application and embody the values of service and leadership that define Dakota State University," Entringer said.

Emerging Leaders

Dr. Leslie Ham, associate vice president for Academic Affairs, and Autumn Glanzer, associate registrar, received Emerging Leader Awards.

Established in 2023, the award recognizes employees with fewer than five years of service to DSU who have made significant contributions through leadership, service, collaboration, initiative, and commitment to the university's mission.

Ham was recognized for her commitment to improving processes, communicating with clarity and purpose, and leading with professionalism and respect. Her willingness to support and mentor others has made a lasting impact on colleagues across campus.

Glanzer was honored for her ability to build community, steward institutional resources, and help employees understand how their work contributes to student success and DSU's broader mission. Her leadership reflects inclusion, collaboration, and a strong sense of shared purpose.

Outstanding Leadership

Kindra Schneider, assistant professor and department chair of Teacher Education, received the Outstanding Leadership Award.

The award recognizes an employee who builds community, fosters a culture of support and care, demonstrates strong stewardship of institutional resources, and creates a shared vision of excellence. Recipients do not need to hold a formal supervisory role.

Schneider's nomination emphasized the thoughtful and collaborative way she supports faculty and staff. She consistently listens to concerns, works toward meaningful solutions, and develops strong relationships.

"Her leadership is reflected in the positive, engaged, and high-performing culture she has cultivated within her team," Entringer said.

Team of the Year

Academic Support Services was named the 2026 Team of the Year.

Team members included Kristen Uilk, Addie Borah, James Dotter, Lisa Hardie, Dana Hoff, Penny Johnson, Kati Larsen, and Christine Souter.

The award honors a team that exemplifies collaboration, cooperation, communication, trust, and respect while working toward a bold vision for success at DSU.

Academic Support Services was recognized for work that reaches nearly every student, faculty member, and academic program at the university. The team's nomination praised its members for approaching their responsibilities with patience, professionalism, expertise, and a deeply student-centered mindset.

"Their commitment to helping others succeed makes a lasting difference throughout the DSU community," Entringer said.

Congratulations to all the winners!

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