Brandon Camp, LeFiell Company, Outstanding Agriculturist

Brandon, a respected leader in the meat-processing equipment industry, passed away in February 2026. Receiving Brandon’s award on his behalf are LeFiell Company’s David Gomes and Dean Johnson. With David, Brandon guided the company to become an industry leader. Lefiell donated over $100,000 in equipment and provided pro bono technical support to our Experiment Station’s Wolf Pack Meats, improving safety and processing efficiency. We remember Brandon for his professional contributions, work ethic, dedication and loyalty.

Karon Felten, Department of Nutrition, Marsha Read Leadership Award in Nutrition & Dietetics

With over 20 years of leadership at the University, Karon has made extraordinary impacts and lasting contributions that make her exceptionally deserving of this award. Our students value her remarkable ability to make complex concepts meaningful and genuine investment in their growth. As Dietetic Internship Program director, she has been a steadfast advocate for 200 interns, guiding the launch of their careers while strengthening our program as the demands and diverse roles of registered dietitians expand. 

Michael Mouradian; Hamilton Company; Outstanding Leadership in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology

Michael, vice president of scientific strategy and market development at Hamilton Company, is a dedicated alumnus and steadfast supporter of our College and the University of Nevada, Reno. He has hosted tours for students and faculty; coordinated Hamilton's financial support of our Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology's annual Biotechnology Symposium; and facilitated significant instrumentation gifts. He continues to foster industry partnerships, expanding hands-on learning and internship opportunities for students.

Laurel Saito, The Nature Conservancy in Nevada, Outstanding Leadership in Natural Resources & Environmental Science

Laurel is an invaluable collaborator to multiple faculty in our Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science and exemplifies outstanding leadership in service to our students. She enriches our research programs by opening doors for stakeholder engagement, elevating the research community around her, and moving grant proposals and manuscripts to completion. She goes out of her way to offer advice and encouragement to new students and faculty, contributing to a sense of welcoming and belonging.

Jessica Shanley, The Shade Tree, Outstanding Extension Supporter

Jessica, director of programs and client care at The Shade Tree, is deeply committed to survivor-centered practice and passionate about supporting survivors while advancing interpersonal violence response. Highly deserving of this recognition, she is a dedicated supporter of Extension's Hope for Family Resilience Program. Her active program collaboration and promotion has significantly advanced our mission, strengthening community partnerships, building community trust and workforce capacity, delivering high-quality educational experiences, and expanding impact for vulnerable families across Nevada.