Carson College of Business recognizes faculty, staff, and doctoral students

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PULLMAN, Wash. – The Carson College of Business honored its outstanding faculty, staff, and graduate students during an annual awards event at Washington State University Pullman on April 26.


Outstanding Faculty Research

Jacob Jaggi

Jacob Jaggi
Department of Accounting

In his short time at the Carson College, Jaggi has published two papers in top accounting journals and has another accepted in the final stages of review. His support for fellow researchers is remarkable, providing multiple written reviews for their work. Jaggi’s commitment to publishing in prestigious journals is commendable, and his achievements make him a deserving recipient of the faculty research award.


Outstanding Faculty Service

Beau Barnes

Beau Barnes
Department of Accounting

Barnes’ commitment to encouraging and guiding doctoral students to pursue their interests rather than conforming to mainstream research has been commendable. Additionally, his exemplary service to the department, including his appointment as the PhD program coordinator, has resulted in significant growth and development of the Carson College doctoral program. Barnes’ willingness to mentor students and make himself available for guidance has been invaluable to their success.


Outstanding Faculty Teaching

Kevin Chase

Kevin Chase 
Department of Marketing and International Business

Chase has established himself as an exceptional instructor. His courses incorporate hands-on, role-play exercises designed to build and sharpen students’ sales skills. He has also made valuable contributions outside of the classroom by supporting the director of the newly established Center for Professional Sales through partnerships with 15 organizations and raising $85,000 in sponsorships. Chase has also coached students to success in various sales competitions, resulting in direct recruitment from firms. Overall, his dedication to teaching has had a profound impact on students’ education and their future careers.


Outstanding Doctoral Student Teaching Assistant

Rachel Gao

Ruixue (Rachel) Gao
Department of Finance and Management Science

Gao’s passion for helping students succeed is evident in her commitment to holding office hours, grading assignments, and leading review sessions. Her ability to break down complex concepts and facilitate active learning has consistently resulted in high levels of satisfaction among her students. Gao fosters an inclusive and supportive learning environment where all students feel welcome and valued. 


Outstanding Doctoral Student Teaching

JT Bates

JT Bates
Department of Management, Information Systems, and Entrepreneurship

Bates is an exceptional instructor who prioritizes his students’ learning experience. His approach to teaching through practice and real-world experience is highly effective and engaging for his students. His dedication to his students is reflected in the outstanding feedback he receives from them. Bates creates a comfortable learning environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions and engage in class discussions. As a result, his students consistently report high levels of satisfaction with his teaching style. His logistical skills and passion for teaching and care for his students’ future are truly remarkable.


Outstanding Doctoral Student Research

Demi Deng

Shenrui (Demi) Deng 
School of Hospitality Business Management

Deng has shown exceptional talent and performance in her doctoral program. She’s actively involved in grant writing and successfully received a USDA grant to study the use of virtual reality in the marketing of Washington state wines. She has published multiple journal papers in top-tier hospitality journals and received a tenure-track assistant professor position at Auburn University for fall 2023. Deng is a committed academic and researcher who has received numerous awards and recognition.


Outstanding Staff Student Engagement

Stephanie Leeper

Stephanie Leeper
WSU Vancouver

Leeper is recognized for exceptional contributions to the WSU Vancouver Business Growth Mentor and Analysis program and for providing substantial support to keep the program thriving during the leadership transition. She has a strong work ethic, pays attention to detail, and seeks innovative ways to improve student engagement. Leeper went above and beyond to help students achieve academic and personal success and created an in-depth data analysis system to provide a more student-centered approach to the Next Carson Coug Amplifier program on the Vancouver campus. Her dedication and hard work make her an asset to any team.


Outstanding Staff College Engagement

Hans Schnabel

Hans Schnabel
Office of the Dean

Schnabel has been instrumental in solving problems related to scheduling and securing great spaces for our classes, while also providing excellent customer service to all who seek his help. He has played a critical role in ensuring the accuracy of myWSU advisement reports for all business majors on all campuses and serves as a “connector” between department chairs, administrators, and advisors. His dedication to his work and exceptional performance make him an invaluable asset to the Carson College.


Outstanding Staff Faculty Engagement 

Joan Halsey

Joan Halsey
Graduate and Online Programs

Halsey’s dedication to the success of her colleagues is exemplified by her unwavering commitment to professionalism, kindness, and attentiveness. Her contributions to the Carson College have been instrumental in creating a positive and productive learning environment. She exhibits willingness to go above and beyond in supporting remote instructors, such as implementing the Faculty Mentorship Program, which has greatly benefited students and faculty alike.

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