Dr. Peg Pittman-Munke announced as recipient of 2025 Dr. Steve Jones Faculty Excellence Award
By Jillian Smith | Apr 16, 2025
MURRAY, Ky. 鈥� Murray State University鈥檚 College of Education and Human Services is proud to announce Dr. Peg Pittman-Munke, social work program director, as the recipient of this year鈥檚 Dr. Steve Jones Faculty Excellence Award.
The award, named in honor of Dr. Steve Jones, associate professor of gerontology and former chair of criminal justice, social work and gerontology, recognizes faculty who demonstrate years of contributions, achievements and service to Murray State University students.
Munke, who began teaching at Murray State in 2002, said she was overwhelmed to be recognized with the award.
鈥淒r. Jones was a trailblazer in so many ways and served the University long and well,鈥� Munke said. 鈥淗e taught me so much about the history and culture of Murray State University and the region.鈥�
Dr. David Whaley, dean of the College of Education and Human Services, said it was no surprise Munke was selected for the honor.
鈥淒r. Peg Pittman-Munke exemplifies the spirit of the Dr. Steve Jones Faculty Excellence Award,鈥� Whaley said. 鈥淗er unwavering commitment to student success and her meaningful contributions to the Murray State community have made a lasting impact. We are incredibly proud to see her receive this well-earned and deeply deserved recognition.鈥�
Reflecting on her role as a professor and mentor, Munke said watching her students grow within the social work program and beyond graduation brings her great joy.
鈥淭he real joy comes in knowing that I am still able to make a contribution to the professional lives of these students,鈥� she said. 鈥淪ome share memories of something they learned in class years ago that they are still using in their professional lives. There is so much joy and gratitude in my life for the contributions of current and past students to their communities and to the profession as a whole. The mentorship continues long after they graduate.鈥�
Munke will receive the award at 4 p.m. Saturday, April 26, in the Curris Center Ballroom during the 19th annual Academic Excellence and Leadership Awards.