In an educational landscape where personal connection can often be overshadowed by institutional scale, the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to a student-centric mission during its 2025 awards ceremony. The event celebrated four outstanding faculty and staff members whose individual contributions have collectively woven a rich tapestry of support, mentorship, and inspiration across the campus. These honorees, recognized by their peers for their profound impact, exemplify the college’s core belief that its greatest asset is its people. Their dedication goes far beyond job descriptions, creating an environment where students are not only educated in specialized agricultural and veterinary fields but are also nurtured as individuals, prepared to face their future careers with confidence and skill. The accolades presented underscore a culture that values compassionate leadership, innovative teaching, and unwavering service as the fundamental drivers of student success and institutional excellence.
Fostering Academic Excellence and Personal Growth
The prestigious Stewart Family Faculty and Staff Award was presented to Vicky Luke, the registration and curriculum specialist, in recognition of her transformative influence on student lives over a remarkable career spanning more than two decades. In her critical role, Luke has been a guiding force for hundreds of students, skillfully navigating the intricate pathways of academic planning and course selection. She is widely celebrated for her unique ability to demystify complex curriculum requirements, offering creative and effective solutions with a determination that ensures every student finds their optimal path. Her expertise is a beacon of clarity for students and families alike, providing much-needed reassurance during moments of academic uncertainty. However, Luke’s impact transcends her administrative duties; her profound kindness, genuine empathy, and consistent support have established her as a trusted mentor and a beloved friend to the entire campus community, making her an indispensable pillar of the NCTA student support system.
Dr. Crystal Rhine, an assistant professor in the Veterinary Technology program, was honored with the 2025 Bruntz Family Award for Teaching, one of the college’s highest accolades for instructional distinction. Dr. Rhine is lauded for a pedagogical philosophy that skillfully balances academic rigor with deep compassion, fostering a calm and supportive learning environment. Within her classrooms and labs, students feel secure enough to ask questions, learn from their mistakes without fear, and steadily build the professional confidence essential for their demanding careers. Her approach empowers students to tackle complex subject matter with assurance, as she consistently presents intricate veterinary information in an accessible and practical manner. A testament to her innovative leadership, Dr. Rhine was instrumental in the successful 2025 launch of NCTA’s online Veterinary Technology program, a major initiative that extends the college’s high standards to a broader audience. Her proactive teaching style and open-door policy further reflect her unwavering commitment to student success.
Cultivating a Vibrant and Supportive Campus Culture
The 2025 NCTA Community Award was presented to Chrissy Barnhart, the office associate for the Veterinary Technology program, celebrating her rapid and significant impact on the campus community. Despite her relatively short tenure, Barnhart has become an indispensable member of her department, known for her steadfast dependability and infectious enthusiasm. As an NCTA alumna herself, she possesses a unique and invaluable perspective that allows her to connect with students on both academic and emotional levels, providing support that is both practical and deeply empathetic. Her multifaceted role involves assisting with classes, providing expert animal care, and ensuring the seamless daily operations of the program. Beyond these internal duties, Barnhart is a key figure in public outreach, representing the college at events like Discovery Days and community visits, where she effectively shares the NCTA story and builds lasting connections with prospective students and their families.
Nathan Nicklas, the residence life manager, was selected as the recipient of the John and Lillian Memorial Excellence in Service Award for his transformative work in enhancing the campus community. Since joining NCTA, Nicklas has been a dynamic force in strengthening the college’s residence life program. His leadership has led to tangible improvements, including the implementation of more effective policies, enhanced recruitment and training protocols for resident assistants, and a notable expansion of intramural sports and other campus activities. These advancements have collectively elevated the quality and consistency of student services, fostering a safer and more engaging residential environment. Beyond these structural enhancements, Nicklas is widely respected for his deeply people-centered approach. He is a steady and uplifting presence, known for his reliability and for consistently showing up for students, whether he is mediating a roommate conflict or simply checking in on someone after a difficult week, thereby strengthening the very fabric of the campus culture.
