Central State University honors 2024 President’s Awards for Faculty Excellence recipients

By Central State University Communications
Posted Feb 13 2025
a central state university stone marker on the campus in wilberforce ohio

The Office of the President at Central State University is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 President’s Awards for Faculty Excellence in Teaching, Research, and Service, with an overall award in Achievement. Faculty were self-nominated or nominated by another member of Central State University. The applications were reviewed using a standard rubric with specific criteria outlined in each category.  

Recipients included the following in their respective categories:  

  • Teaching — Brittany Brake  
  • Research — Pratibha Gupta, Ph.D.
  • Service — Katrina Swinehart-Held, Ph.D. 
  • Achievement — Lubna Abu-Niaaj, Ph.D.

“Each of these awardees exemplifies the excellence that defines Central State University,” said President Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, 10th President of Central State University. “Their contributions in teaching, research, and service not only elevate our Institution, but also inspire our entire campus community."

"I am proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to the continued impact they will have on our students, faculty, and the broader society.”  

Additionally, President Kuti thanked members of the judging panel for their commitment, time, and energy.  

Read about the recipients at the links below.

Lubna F. Abu-Niaaj, Ph.D., named 2024 recipient of the President’s Award for Faculty Excellence in Achievement

Brittany Brake honored with 2024 President’s Award for Faculty Excellence in Teaching at Central State University

Katrina Swinehart-Held, Ph.D.: A champion of service at Central State University

Dr. Pratibha Gupta: A pioneer in nutrition and health research at Central State University