Going Above and Beyond

The College of Business is full of alumni and faculty making significant impacts both at ISU and in their communities. A few recent recognitions include alumna Sandee Gehrke and professors Steve Byers and Ruiling Guo. “Thank you to these and all Bengals who go above and beyond to support our students. They make the future brighter for all of us because of their exceptional efforts,” said College of Business Dean and Michael C. Ruettgers Professor of Marketing, Dr. Shane Hunt.

Professional Achievement Award - Sandee Gehrke

Idaho State University’s annual Professional Achievement Awards recognize some of the most influential alumni for their valuable and distinguished contributions to Idaho State, their profession and their community. This year’s winner from the College of Business was healthcare administration alumna, Sandee Gehrke. Gehrke is the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of St. Luke’s Health System, overseeing eight hospitals, 300+ ambulatory care sites and a network of 4,000+ providers.

Impactful Teaching Award - Steve Byers

A new recognition at ISU, the Impactful Teaching Award aims to recognize faculty across campus who are making going above and beyond for their students. The first recipient of this award for the University was Dr. Steve Byers, the Gary D. and Susan G. Campbell Dr. Bill Phillips Endowed Professor of Finance at the College of Business. In a testimonial from alumna Melissa Lowry, “[Byers[ had a profound impact on me while at ISU. He was always available to answer my questions [...] and help me navigate the path ahead. With his support and encouragement, I took a giant leap from Pocatello to New York City for my first job. I’m deeply grateful to have had him as a professor.”

Fulbright Specialist Program Award - Ruiling Guo

College of Business Healthcare Administration Professor Dr. Ruiling Guo will be visiting the University of Malta over the summer to embark on a collaborative research project with renowned professors there.

Recipients of the Fulbright Specialist Program Award are selected on the basis of academic and professional achievement, demonstrated leadership in their field, and their potential to foster long-term cooperation between institutions in the U.S. and abroad.