Dijon DeLaPorte and Dave Merriman, staff members in the College of Education and Human Sciences at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, have been selected as the two recipients of the 2026 CEHS Annual Staff Award, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the college and its mission.
The CEHS Annual Staff Award is presented to individuals whose performance consistently exceeds expectations and reflects a high level of service, trustworthiness and respect. Recipients demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting the college through their work and contributions across CEHS.
As the director of recruitment for CEHS, DeLaPorte has played a key role in advancing the college’s student recruitment efforts over the last several years, helping connect prospective students to opportunities at CEHS. He is widely recognized for his strategic approach and ability to translate data into effective action.
As one nominator shared, “Dijon is well-known on campus and across the larger higher education recruitment community for his ability to think strategically and implement calculated recruitment tactics. From structuring timely communications to thoroughly analyzing high school recruitment data, he shows other recruiters on campus how to create efficiencies and streamline processes in an effort to increase enrollment numbers.”
Known for his professionalism and steady approach as the web developer for CEHS, Merriman supports nearly every area of the college through his work. Whether managing routine updates or responding to urgent requests, he brings a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every situation.
One nominator wrote, “Dave communicates effectively with people at all levels and his responsiveness is exemplary. His ability to provide creative solutions that balance optimal webpage design with the best user experience demonstrates his deep understanding of both technical requirements and end-user needs. Dave is not simply good at what he does, he transforms the work of everyone around him through his technical expertise, patience and genuine care for their success.”
Both honorees will be recognized during the college’s annual awards ceremony on Friday, April 24.
