Dr. Stephanie Schaaf awarded inaugural Dr. Victor S. Raj Excellence in Academic Departmental Leadership Award

 

MURRAY, Ky. — Murray State University announced that Dr. Stephanie Schaaf, department chair of the Center for Communication Disorders, received the inaugural Dr. Victor S. Raj Excellence in Academic Departmental Leadership Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership, mentorship and dedication to student success.

The award honors academic leaders who demonstrate a deep commitment to students, faculty and academic excellence through transformational leadership and service to their departments and institutions.

“I was completely surprised and deeply honored to receive the inaugural Dr. Victor S. Raj Excellence in Academic Departmental Leadership Award,” Schaaf said. “To be recognized in the name of Dr. Raj, whose legacy reflects such extraordinary commitment to students, faculty and academic excellence, is truly humbling.”

Schaaf emphasized that the recognition reflects the collaborative spirit and dedication of the Department of Communication Disorders.

“While I am incredibly grateful for this recognition, I see this award as a reflection of the remarkable faculty, staff and students I have the privilege of working alongside every day,” Schaaf said. “I have always believed that leadership is never about one person—it is about building a community that works hard together, holds high expectations and supports one another wholeheartedly.”

Dr. Nikki Gaylord, associate professor in the Center for Communication Disorders, said Schaaf’s impact on the department and its students made her especially deserving of the honor.

“Dr. Stephanie Schaaf was nominated by her peers, students and former students in recognition of her exceptional leadership, dedication and lasting impact within the academic department,” Gaylord said. “Through her vision, integrity and unwavering support of both faculty and students, Dr. Schaaf exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Dr. Victor S. Raj Excellence in Academic Departmental Leadership Award.”

Students also praised Schaaf’s mentorship, leadership and commitment to creating a supportive learning environment.

“Dr. Schaaf stands out for her clinical expertise in speech-language pathology, exceptional mentorship, strong leadership and the positivity she brings to the department,” Tessa Bradley, a graduate student in the Speech-Language Pathology program, said. “Her passion is evident in every interaction, as is her commitment to helping others grow in confidence and reach their full potential.”

Bradley added that Schaaf’s leadership has helped foster a welcoming and collaborative culture within the department.

“Her optimism and genuine investment in others have had a lasting impact on both the quality of our program and the everyday experiences of its students and faculty,” Bradley said.

Schaaf said the support she received from colleagues and students throughout the nomination process made the recognition especially meaningful.

“Knowing that my colleagues nominated me and that faculty and students took the time to write such thoughtful letters of support means more to me than I can fully express,” Schaaf said. “I am truly fortunate to be part of such an exceptional and caring community, and I share this honor with all of them.”