2024-25 University Faculty Scholars Named

NC State’s 2024-25 class of University Faculty Scholars was announced today. These 20 early- and mid-career faculty receive this designation in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements and contributions to NC State through their teaching, scholarship and service to the university and beyond.

Since the program’s inception in 2012, 278 faculty have been named University Faculty Scholars. These faculty members carry the title for the duration of their faculty appointment at NC State and receive an increase to their base salary.

Each college may submit nominations for assistant professors appointed for a second term, associate professors and professors within the first three years of their appointment. Senior faculty then review nominations, evaluating them on research and scholarship productivity, excellence in teaching and mentoring, and leadership in extension, professional societies and public service initiatives.

This year’s class of University Faculty Scholars includes:

• Justin Baker, associate professor of forestry and environmental resources
• K.C. Busch, associate professor of STEM education
• Wei-chen Chang, LORD Corporation Distinguished Scholar in Chemistry,
• Matthew Fisher, associate professor of biomedical engineering
• Christopher Galik, professor of public and international affairs
• Luke Gatiboni, professor of crop and soil sciences
• Khara Grieger, assistant professor of applied ecology
• Lilian Hsiao, associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering
• Arun Kota, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering
• Kavita Mathur, associate professor of textile and apparel, technology and management
• Kelly Meiklejohn, associate professor of population health and pathobiology
• Marie Muller, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering
• David Rasmussen, associate professor of entomology and plant pathology
• Jackie Relyea, assistant professor of teacher education and learning sciences
• Yogesh Saini, professor of population health and pathobiology
• Sonja Salmon, associate professor of textile engineering, chemistry and science
• Mirela Tulbure, professor of forestry and environmental resources
• Kelly Umstead, associate professor of graphic design and industrial design
• Cheryl Xu, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering
• Tom Zagenczyk, professor, management, innovation and entrepreneurship

This post was originally published in NC State News.