Education and human development honors alumni at 26th annual award ceremony

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University is honoring  Dr. Leadriane Roby and Dr. Donald E. Thompson with Golden Apple Awards, Dr. Odell Miller with a Keystone Early Career Award and Trey Conner with a Keystone Meritorious Award at the 26th annual CEHD Alumni Awards.

“Our alumni are a testament to the success and impact of WMU’s College of Education and Human Development. Not only do we celebrate our alumni as a recognition of their personal achievements, but as a reminder to our current and future students to strive for their own greatness," says Dr. Laura Dinehart, dean of the College of Education and Human Development.

The 26th Annual CEHD Alumni Awards reception will be held during Homecoming Weekend on Friday, Oct. 25, at 5 p.m. at the WMU Student Center. Register for the event here.

Dr. Leadriane Roby

Roby, Ph.D.'12, is the superintendent of Grand Rapids Public Schools, a position she has held since 2020. 

During her time with Grand Rapids Public Schools, she has spearheaded a multi-year initiative to involve scholars, families, staff and the broader Grand Rapids community in shaping the district’s future. This collaborative effort culminated in the approval of a new Strategic Plan in 2021. Building on that foundation, the Reimagine GRPS with Us! plan was launched in 2023, committing $305 million to enhance schools and guide academic programs across the district. Under Roby’s leadership, GRPS has achieved significant milestones, including record-high graduation rates and the largest enrollment growth in over two decades. Her contributions to the Grand Rapids community have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of Grand Rapids' 200 Most Influential Leaders and one of West Michigan's 50 Most Influential Women.

Prior to her current role, Roby served as a district leader, elementary and secondary principal, mentor, instructional leader and elementary classroom teacher in districts in both Michigan and Minnesota. From turning around school performance to strategic planning, she embraces 21st-century solutions with authentic, inclusive, transparent, and comprehensive engagement and thoughtful, data-driven decision-making. Roby is a recipient of the 2024 CEHD Golden Apple Award.

Dr. Donald E. Thompson

Thompson, B.S.'68, M.A.'71, Ed.D'73, a distinguished alumnus of WMU, he has dedicated his life to advancing education. A professor emeritus from the Department of Educational Leadership, Research and Technology, he also held pivotal positions at WMU such as dean of both the College of Education (now CEHD) and the Graduate College. Thompson was also appointed the University's first vice president for research. 

His impact extends beyond WMU, with joint professorial appointments in Education and Urban Studies at the University of Michigan and a distinguished national role as division director and assistant director of the Education and Human Resources Directorate for the National Science Foundation. After his retirement in 2014, Dr. Thompson has continued to influence and support the field of education through philanthropy. 

Through a generous endowment, Thompson and his wife, Kathleen, started the Dr. Donald E. Thompson Innovation Research Fellowship at WMU. This prestigious fellowship not only covers full tuition for one year but also empowers students to pursue groundbreaking research projects under the guidance of faculty mentors. The 2024-25 academic year will mark the first time CEHD will have a cohort of "Don Fellows", each benefiting from this transformative support. Thompson is a recipient of the 2024 CEHD Golden Apple Award.

Dr. Odell Miller

Miller, a former NFL and college football athlete, is a physical therapist passionate about using his energy and experience to make a positive impact. He opened his first physical therapy clinic after graduation to work with clients of all ages, from aspiring NFL and high school athletes to elderly patients seeking mobility freedom.

Through his social media, Miller has inspired and motivated countless individuals to pursue careers in the health field. With a following of over 50,000, he shares his journey and offers guidance to aspiring professionals. Additionally, he has established an online mentorship group where students from around the world can learn from him and his team through courses and live calls. 

According to his nominator, Miller has overcome the challenges to become a successful doctor, business owner and role model who embodies the spirit of the award he is receiving. Miller is the recipient of the 2024 CEHD Keystone Early Career Award.

Trey Conner

Conner, B.S.'12, is the Chief Operating Officer of the Grand Rapids Gold, an affiliate of the Denver Nuggets (NBA).

As one of the founding members of the Gold, Conner played a pivotal role in building the franchise from the ground up. His dedication and strong work ethic were instrumental in the team's early success and continues to make the Gold one of the NBA's premier affiliate teams.

Conner is also passionate about using his platform to not only entertain the community but also to make a positive impact. He is committed to ensuring that the Gold provide valuable programs and initiatives, such as summer camps, reading programs in local schools and community fundraisers. Through these efforts, he is helping to create a lasting legacy and inspire the next generation.

According to his nominator, Conner's exceptional leadership and positive influence make him an invaluable asset to the team. His dedication, integrity and commitment to excellence makes him a role model to those around him. Conner is the recipient of the 2024 CEHD Keystone Meritorious Achievement Award.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.