51ĀŅĀ×

Dr. Peg Pittman-Munke announced as recipient of 2025 Dr. Steve Jones Faculty Excellence Award

By Jillian Smith | Apr 16, 2025

Dr. Peg Pittman-Munke

Dr. Peg Pittman-Munke

 

MURRAY, Ky. – 51ĀŅĀ×’s College of Education and Human Services is proud to announce Dr. Peg Pittman-Munke, social work program director, as the recipient of this year’s Dr. Steve Jones Faculty Excellence Award.

The award, named in honor of Dr. Steve Jones, associate professor of gerontology and former chair of criminal justice, social work and gerontology, recognizes faculty who demonstrate years of contributions, achievements and service to 51ĀŅĀ× students.

Munke, who began teaching at 51ĀŅĀ× State in 2002, said she was overwhelmed to be recognized with the award.

ā€œDr. Jones was a trailblazer in so many ways and served the University long and well,ā€ Munke said. ā€œHe taught me so much about the history and culture of 51ĀŅĀ× and the region.ā€

Dr. David Whaley, dean of the College of Education and Human Services, said it was no surprise Munke was selected for the honor.

ā€œDr. Peg Pittman-Munke exemplifies the spirit of the Dr. Steve Jones Faculty Excellence Award,ā€ Whaley said. ā€œHer unwavering commitment to student success and her meaningful contributions to the 51ĀŅĀ× State community have made a lasting impact. We are incredibly proud to see her receive this well-earned and deeply deserved recognition.ā€

Reflecting on her role as a professor and mentor, Munke said watching her students grow within the social work program and beyond graduation brings her great joy.

ā€œThe real joy comes in knowing that I am still able to make a contribution to the professional lives of these students,ā€ she said. ā€œSome share memories of something they learned in class years ago that they are still using in their professional lives. There is so much joy and gratitude in my life for the contributions of current and past students to their communities and to the profession as a whole. The mentorship continues long after they graduate.ā€

Munke will receive the award at 4 p.m. Saturday, April 26, in the Curris Center Ballroom during the 19th annual Academic Excellence and Leadership Awards.

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