Golden Apple trophy on table.

CEHD Alumni Awards

The College of Education and Human Development is now accepting nominations and support letters for the 2026 Alumni Awards. The ceremony will be held during Homecoming Weekend (TBA).

The Golden Apple Award is given to honor two outstanding individuals who graduated from the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University and are presently working or retired from the many professions involved in the educational experience. The individuals will be personally selected by their peers as being representative of educational excellence and commitment. Learn more.

The Keystone Early Career Award is designed to recognize one graduate who has achieved substantial professional growth and advancement within the last ten years in their chosen profession in the field of human development. Learn more.

The Keystone Meritorious Achievement Award recognizes one graduate (graduation year must be at least 10 years prior to nomination year) who has demonstrated outstanding professional achievements and distinction in the field of human development. Learn more.

The CEHD Outstanding Alumni Award is one of the University's highest alumni awards and is given to alumni who bring distinction to their alma mater through professional achievements and who have enjoyed a high level of success in their careers. Learn more.

2025 Award Recipients

2025 college of education and human development award winners
(left to right) Ameer Ismail, Lindsey Hammerlein, Dr. Tasia Fields, Dr. Andrew Rynberg and Christopher Smith.
  • Dr. Andrew Rynberg – Golden Apple Award
  • Dr. Tasia Fields – Golden Apple Award
  • Ameer Ismail – Keystone Meritorious Award
  • Lindsey Hemmerlein – Keystone Early Career Award
  • Dr. Carol Payne Smith – Bronco Legacy Award (posthumously)
  • Dr. James Ysseldyke – CEHD Outstanding Alumni Award