Missouri State University’s Foundation Awards for Excellence recognize faculty who go above and beyond in teaching, research and service.

Among this year’s recipients were two McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) faculty members. Dr. Tara Boehne, clinical professor in the School of Health Care Professions, and Dr. Melissa Penkalkski, professor in the School of Nursing, received honors for their teaching and service impact.

Boehne

Boehne, who teaches occupational therapy, received the Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching.

After 18 years in clinical practice, she joined Missouri State in 2014 and helped launch the university’s Master of Occupational Therapy. She has also contributed to developing two doctoral programs while mentoring future occupational therapists.

According to Boehne, receiving the award was very humbling because of the encouragement from colleagues across the profession.

“Even though there’s a lot of us, it’s a very tight-knit community,” she said.

She added that the honor reflects the dedication of the entire occupational therapy team in preparing future practitioners who will serve individuals and families for years to come.

For Boehne, effective teaching extends beyond course content. She focuses on building relationships with students, understanding how they learn and supporting their overall well-being.

“I strive for open communication with my students and meeting them where they’re at,” she said.

One of her favorite moments is watching students gain confidence in clinical settings.

“They get comfortable, their confidence improves and you can see all the pieces fit together,” she said.

Her commitment to hands-on learning became personal and especially meaningful after her son was seriously injured in a car accident. During his rehabilitation, every occupational therapist who cared for him was a graduate of Missouri State’s program.

The experience reinforced the importance of preparing skilled and compassionate professionals. It was a full-circle moment that underscored the impact Missouri State graduates have in real-world care.

“It really reassured me that we’re producing excellent therapists who care deeply about the people they serve,” she said.

Penkalski

Actively engaged in service both on and off campus, Penkalski received the Foundation Award for Excellence in Service.

“Receiving this award is a tremendous honor. It reflects my commitment to serving Missouri State, our students and the community,” she said.

Since joining Missouri State in 2015 and serving as graduate program director since 2017, Penkalski has contributed to initiatives across the university, college, school and professional community.

Her efforts include serving as co-chair of a strategic planning working group for the “Igniting Opportunity” strategic plan; participating on graduate education task forces; and chairing committees that support student success, faculty development and interprofessional collaboration.

Penkalski views service as an essential part of academic life that reflects value and supports student success.

“My philosophy of service is grounded in accountability, collaboration and purposeful leadership,” she said.

She believes meaningful service begins by listening, understanding needs and working alongside others to create sustainable solutions.

Beyond campus, she participates in several professional organizations, such as American Nurses Association, Association of Asthma Educators and National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. She also serves as a reviewer for professional journals and provides expert consultation in her field, helping connect academic expertise with community needs.

A model of excellence

The accomplishments of Boehne and Penkalski highlight Missouri State’s commitment to excellence in teaching and service.

Through their dedication, they support student success, strengthen academic programs and community connections, and embody the university’s public affairs mission.

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