The University of Wyoming College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources
recognized outstanding educators and staff members at its recent annual awards banquet.
“Each year, we celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of faculty and staff within
the College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources,” says Farm Credit
Services of America Dean Kelly Crane. “Our college excels because of their undeniable
passion, innovation and hard work.”
Two staff members earned the Outstanding Staff Award for their contributions to the
college.
-- Jeremy Cain, graphic designer for UW Extension’s communication and technology team,
was recognized for his design expertise, patience, good humor and leadership. Cain
regularly steps up to help colleagues and the public. Nominators note his collaborative,
professional attitude.
As a graphic designer, Cain quickly and consistently produces high-quality work that
makes complicated information easy to understand.
“His attention to detail and consideration of how the audience will interact with
his designs result in unique products that always enhance a given project’s goals,”
says David Keto, UW Extension communications and technology manager.
-- Jacqueline “Jack” Ross is the senior office associate in the Department of Zoology
and Physiology.
“Her professionalism and positivity make her the foundation that holds the department
together,” says Amy Navratil, head of the department.
Ross keeps track of behind-the-scenes administrative details that help the department
function smoothly and anticipates problems before they arise. She fosters community
by organizing departmental events. Faculty, staff and students rely on Ross for her
sound judgment, institutional knowledge and diplomatic, warm demeanor.
-- The Andrew Vanvig Lifetime Distinguished Faculty Achievement Award is given to
a senior faculty member who has exceptional accomplishments in teaching, research,
service or outreach.
Roger Coupal, a UW professor of agricultural and applied economics, has spent his
career fulfilling each of these requirements.
Coupal has worked as a UW faculty member for almost three decades. He has served as
a mentor for both students and younger faculty members. He also has influenced the
university’s academic and strategic future by participating in faculty governance
bodies.
Throughout his career, Coupal has conducted applied research relevant to the people
of Wyoming, helping policymakers, communities and state agencies make informed economic
decisions.
“His career reflects a deep and unwavering commitment to advancing the land-grant
mission of the University of Wyoming, often prioritizing institutional advancement
and public service over personal recognition,” says Ben Rashford, head of the Department
of Agricultural and Applied Economics.
Nominators note Coupal’s commitment to fairness, institutional memory and thoughtful
judgment.
-- Gretchen Gasvoda-Kelso, a 4-H youth development extension educator based in Big
Horn County, is one of two recipients of the 2026 Outstanding Educator Award.
Gasvoda-Kelso encourages youth to explore a wide variety of projects, enabling them
to discover new interests.
“Gretchen has a remarkable ability to recognize motivation in young people and nurture
it to its fullest potential,” says Dan VanderPloeg, a UW Extension educator and 4-H
parent.
Gasvoda-Kelso is always looking for ways to better meet people’s needs, provide opportunities
and help those around her feel supported and successful. Her passion is not limited
to youth; she also excels at building relationships with colleagues, parents, 4-H
volunteers and other community members.
-- Kassandra Willingham is an assistant lecturer in the Department of Molecular Biology.
In recognition of her dedication to student success, she also received a 2026 Outstanding
Educator Award.
Willingham seeks opportunities to improve her teaching. One student described her
as relentless in her efforts to help students learn. She focuses on practical applications
of skills and understanding the “why” behind the material, preparing students to use
skills in future careers.
Willingham is receptive to student feedback and goes out of her way to connect with
students’ personal interests and passions.
“Students describe her as approachable, supportive and enthusiastic, qualities that
create an inclusive and motivating learning environment,” Navratil says.
About the UW College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources
UW’s College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources serves students and communities through innovative scholarship, research and outreach. Guided by the land-grant principles of discovery and experiential learning, the college facilitates meaningful educational opportunities in the classroom, laboratory and community. The college offers degrees in the departments of agricultural and applied economics, animal science, botany, ecosystem science and management, family and consumer sciences, molecular biology, plant sciences, veterinary sciences, and zoology and physiology. The college also offers degree programs in agricultural communications, microbiology, and ranch management and agricultural leadership. To learn more, visit www.uwyo.edu/uwag or call (307) 766-4133.
