Today@Sam Article

SHSU Department Of Student Involvement Wins Anthology Catalyst Award

July 30, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Mikah Boyd

Sam Houston State University’s Department of Student Involvement has been named a winner of the 2024 Anthology Catalyst Award for Student Experience, which honors institutions leveraging technology to develop educational and administrative innovations that positively influence the total learner experience – outside and inside the classroom – and improve operational efficiency.  

The award signifies recognition of the department’s work in enhancing student engagement, belonging and retention with the Ultimate Bearkat Society. This unique community of students uses a path within OrgLink that compiles the essential programs and events that enrich the student's experience and build skills for future career success, including critical thinking and teamwork. The final step on the path is the completion of a capstone project; an online e-portfolio summarizing what they experienced and learned while completing the path. 

“The Catalyst Award winners exemplify the remarkable dedication needed to employ EdTech in advancing education. These accolades celebrate the outstanding efforts and success of educators and institutions that are at the forefront of innovation, making a meaningful difference in the lives of students every day. We're excited to support and recognize such significant contributions to the field of education,” said Bruce Dahlgren, chief executive officer of Anthology.  

Students following the path to becoming members of the society receive support from Meredith Conrey and Emily Figueroa, director and associate director of Student Involvement. Upon completion of their paths, the students participate in an induction ceremony where they receive a medallion to wear with their graduation regalia, symbolizing their status as an Ultimate Bearkat. 

“Many graduates who have been inducted into the Ultimate Bearkat Society began tracking their experiences for the medal, but ended their college journey with a better understanding of the skills and values they learned as they continued tracking,” Figueroa said. “It is our goal for this program to help SHSU graduates become productive members of society while elevating the reputation and brand of SHSU.” 

This achievement ensured Sam Houston State a place of honor at the Anthology Together conference, where the brightest minds in education convene to share insights and celebrate innovation. The conference, which took place from July 15-17 in Orlando, Florida, was an enriching experience that spotlighted SHSU’s dedication to student success. 

“It is an honor for SHSU to be recognized on an international level,” Conrey said. “This recognition validates the efforts made by each person involved with the Ultimate Bearkat Society, whether it is a department hosting a program or a student choosing to further their development by participating in an experience on the path. We are elated to receive this recognition.”  

Founded in 2005, the annual Catalyst Awards recognize and honor innovation and excellence in the Anthology global community of practice, where millions of educators and learners work every day to redefine what is possible when leveraging technology. Winners are selected by a cross-functional team of Anthology experts and represent the very best in their field.  

For further details on SHSU’s award-winning work and other Catalyst Award recipients, please visit the Catalyst Awards website. 

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