WSU awards faculty for achievements in theater arts, energy efficiency
OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University honored top faculty this fall, naming the new recipients of the John S. Hinckley Fellow Award and the Exemplary Interdisciplinary Collaboration Award.
John S. Hinckley Fellow Award
the lighting for the school’s 2024 production of The Prom
Jessica Greenberg, theatre professor and chair of the School of Performing Arts, received the 2025 Hinckley Fellow Award for her impact in teaching, scholarship, and service.
She has been widely praised for her student-centered and dynamic teaching style, combining professional rigor with mentorship that extends beyond graduation. Her guidance has helped students thrive in professional theater careers and earn national recognition, including at the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival.
“I am so honored to be recognized by my community here,” Greenberg said. “I am privileged to serve alongside some of the most dedicated educators and artists I’ve ever met. I’m genuinely proud to serve at an institution that has been nationally recognized for our successes in affordability, access, and upward mobility for our students.”
Greenberg maintains an impressive national and international lighting design career, including credits with the Utah Shakespeare Festival and New York theaters. She has secured more than $700,000 in grants to bring both cutting-edge technology and learning experiences to WSU students. Colleagues describe her as a collaborative leader, bringing expertise and energy to every project she touches.
Exemplary Interdisciplinary Collaboration Award
perform an energy audit on Tracy Hall on October 24, 2025
The Exemplary Interdisciplinary Collaboration Award is presented to faculty who work collaboratively across disciplinary boundaries.
Led by An Ho, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, the Weber Industrial Training & Assessment Center received the award for its work connecting students with industry partners in order to help reduce energy use for Utah businesses.
“The success of the Weber State Industrial Assessment Center comes from strong collaboration among students, faculty, industry partners, and community organizations,” Ho said. “Together, we help local manufacturers and cities improve their energy efficiency, reduce costs, and give students hands-on experience that directly prepares them for their future careers.”
Through collaborative projects with government, industry, and community partners, WSU students have completed 12 industrial assessments. They help provide measurable cost-saving and sustainable options, resulting in 10–20% reductions in energy use. Partners praise the program for its hands-on training, cross-discipline teamwork, and economic impact across Utah, all achieved within its first year.
In addition to valuable hands-on experience, the program has already launched multiple students into competitive internships and full-time energy careers, helping to strengthen Utah’s workforce.
Ashlee Ellinwood, Marketing & Communications
- Contact:
Rachel Badali, Interim Public Relations Director
801-626-7362, rachelbadali@weber.edu