2026 Award Honorees
These annual awards recognize instructors, program developers and instructional assistants who make outstanding contributions to student success in UW Continuum College’s professional and specialized learning programs.
Instructional Excellence Award
The 2026 Instructional Excellence Awards honors an instructor for teaching excellence and support for student achievement in professional and specialized programs.
Kevin Bradley
UW Certificate in C++ Programming
Kevin Bradley, an experienced software architect specializing in medical device software for ultrasound imaging systems at Philips Healthcare, has led the UW Certificate in C++ Programming for several years. He has guided the course through multiple improvements, ensuring a high-quality, engaging learning experience.
Students appreciate his dedication to supporting them beyond the classroom, offering guidance and encouragement to help them overcome challenges and succeed. Colleagues commend Bradley for fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where all students feel valued: “He is approachable, responsive and takes the time to understand individual learning needs.”
Instructional Assistant Award
The 2026 Instructional Assistant Award honors an instructor instructional assistant who has contributed to a program by collaborating with the instructor and helping learners succeed.
Ann Alise Botzenmayer
UW Specialization in Grant Writing; UW Specialization in Budgeting and Finance for Nonprofits
With more than 15 years of experience in administration, education, training and hospitality, Ann Alise Botzenmayer first joined the UW Specialization in Grant Writing as a student and has since come full circle as a member of the instructional team.
Known for fostering trust and open communication, she is highly valued by students and colleagues alike. As one student notes in an evaluation, “[Botzenmayer and the instructor are] kind, highly informative, prompt and organized.” Botzenmayer says this award is especially meaningful because it recognizes the work she loves most: supporting instructors and helping learners realize their potential.
Legacy in Teaching Award
The 2026 Legacy in Teaching Awards honors two individuals who have demonstrated teaching excellence in professional and specialized programs for more than five years.
Hanna Richards – 5+ Years
Freelance copyeditor and proofreader Hanna Richards has made a lasting impact on the UW Certificate in Editing through her expertise and dedication to student success. As both an alumna and instructor, she brings a unique perspective to her role, understanding firsthand the challenges and opportunities students face as they develop their editing skills.
Students consistently praise her thoughtfully designed learning experiences, which help them build confidence and apply complex concepts. Colleagues describe Richards as a trusted partner who shares her expertise, supports instructional teams and strengthens the program.
B. Michelle Johnson – 10+ Years
UW Certificate in Fundraising Management
For 15 years, B. Michelle Johnson has helped shape the UW Certificate in Fundraising Management, one of UWPCE’s longest-running programs. Drawing on her experience as director of Ultimate Rainbow Consulting, she brings practical insight into fundraising planning, leadership and nonprofit management while offering candid career guidance students value.
More than an instructor, Johnson is a mentor. As one student shares in an evaluation: "Her enthusiasm and willingness to connect beyond the course have been incredibly helpful. She graciously made time for a 1:1 Zoom call to discuss my transition back into the workforce after being a stay-at-home parent for six years."
Team Instructional Excellence Award
The 2026 Team Instructional Excellence Award honors a team of 11 instructors and contributors who create an exceptional learning experience for students through teamwork and individual teaching excellence.
Certificate in Wetland Science & Management Team
UW Certificate in Wetland Science & Management
Tanner Harris, Grant Gilmore, Diane Hennessey, Rebecca Bramwell, Stephen Stanley, Joe Brentin (not pictured), Matthew Szymanowicz, Daniel Krenz, Julia Munger, Doug Gresham, and Mae Ancheta
The Wetland Science & Management instructional team exemplifies excellence through its deep expertise, collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment to student success. By seamlessly blending classroom instruction with immersive field experiences, these instructors bring wetland science to life through real-world applications, industry connections and hands-on learning.
Students applaud the team’s passion, accessibility and thoughtful guidance, noting how welcomed, supported and challenged they feel throughout the program. As one student says in their evaluation: “I feel really seen and heard. I am confident that my instructors want me to learn and are dedicated to seeing that through.” This commitment to student growth and success is helping launch the next generation of wetland professionals across private, nonprofit and government sectors.
