Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology celebrated its student achievers on Tuesday evening as the campus community gathered for the 2025 Annual Academic Awards Ceremony at the Multipurpose Activity Center.
The ceremony, a cherished college tradition held at the end of each spring semester, recognized more than 100 second-year students for their outstanding academic performance and leadership contributions while also honoring faculty and staff who exemplify the college’s mission of transforming lives through education.
This event truly showcases what makes our Bulldog community special. The students have demonstrated tremendous commitment to their technical education and personal growth, preparing themselves to enter the workforce as skilled professionals who will transform their lives and communities.
Student Excellence Across Technical Programs
Students from all 25 technical programs as well as core general education classes were recognized for their achievements, with awards presented to top performers in fields ranging from Architectural Technology and Computer Software Engineering Technology to Welding Technology and Mechanical Engineering Technology. The ceremony highlighted the hands-on, practical learning that distinguishes a Thaddeus Stevens education and prepares graduates to be in high demand with employers. Faculty from each program presented the awards to students in that major, and expanded upon the leadership qualities, strengths, and intentionality of the award winners.
Among the major awards presented was the prestigious Student Alumni Award, recognizing the graduate with outstanding qualifications in leadership, character, and scholarship as selected by faculty. This award was given to Quiana Cintron, an Electrical Technology major. A dozen students were given awards for highest grade point averages for the class of 2025 as well.
Student Government Association President Kaleb Backel was the emcee for the ceremony, emphasizing the significance of the evening for the entire campus community.
Faculty and Staff Recognition
The evening also celebrated exceptional faculty and staff members who contribute to student success and embody the college’s values:
- Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Lisa Marie Middendorf, English Professor, received this honor following nominations from across the Bulldog community. The award recognizes enthusiasm in the classroom, exceptional preparation, relevance of material, and the ability to encourage diverse viewpoints.
- Lydia Hamilton Smith Award: Laurie Grove, Director of Career Services, was recognized for her behind-the-scenes work supporting the college in meaningful ways. This award honors those who embody the spirit of dedication and support demonstrated by Lydia Hamilton Smith, a significant figure in Thaddeus Stevens’ life and a prominent African American businesswoman.
- Alex B. Munro Diversity Award: Michele Cherubin, the College’s Accessibility Coordinator, was honored for extraordinary contributions that advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at the College.
A Complete College Experience
The Academic Awards Ceremony exemplifies the complete college experience at Thaddeus Stevens, which balances industry-focused technical education with vibrant campus life and community engagement.
This recognition ceremony reflects our mission as the architect of opportunity, transforming lives through hands-on technical education while maintaining a deep commitment to accessibility and student success.