Rio Celebrates Excellence in Teaching and Service

University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College is proud to announce the recipients of annual awards recognizing outstanding service and teaching for the 2025–2026 academic year. 

Dr. John Means was selected for the Raymond C. Matura Service Award. The Matura award honors a Rio employee who goes beyond the responsibilities of their position to perform activities beneficial to the institution, often without additional compensation. Dr. Means serves as Rio’s Chemistry/Physics Program Coordinator, Professor of Chemistry, and Pre-Med Advisor.

Rio students have selected Assistant Professor of Nursing, Jessica Varian, as the Ernie A. Wyant Outstanding Teaching Award recipient. The award honors a faculty member who demonstrates outstanding teaching and supports students in achieving academic excellence.

Matthew Elwer was named the Edwin A. Jones Excellence in Teaching Award winner for this academic year. The Excellence in Teaching Award is awarded to an outstanding Rio faculty member who demonstrates professional excellence and is selected by faculty peers at Rio. Elwer is an Advanced Instructor of Mathematics.

Dr. Kay-Anne Darlington received the Excellence in Scholarship Award. This award recognizes a faculty member whose scholarly activity demonstrates sustained commitment, significant scope, and meaningful contributions at the regional, national, or international level. Rio’s Faculty Scholarship Committee identified Dr. Darlington’s record of achievement as exemplary and deserving of this honor. Dr. Darlington is an Associate Professor of Communication and Director of the Honors Program at Rio.

Each winner will receive a commemorative plaque, a cash award, and a permanent listing on the perpetual plaques for their respective awards.

“Each of these honorees represents the very best of Rio,” said Dr. David Lawrence, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. “Their passion for teaching and service strengthens our campus community and helps our students thrive.”