Staff Award for Innovation

Deanna Allen
Senior Administrative Assistant
Education Research Alliance for New Orleans

Deanna Allen is recognized for her innovative approach to problem-solving in complex administrative environments. Whether organizing events with limited resources, navigating grant reporting during periods of understaffing, or developing new processes for contracts that fall outside standard systems, Deanna consistently identifies solutions that keep work moving forward.

She played a key role in redesigning the ERA internship program to recruit students from HBCUs in the New Orleans area, expanding access and strengthening outreach efforts. Known for her willingness to share knowledge and guide colleagues through complex processes, Deanna’s work reflects both technical expertise and a collaborative spirit that strengthens her entire team.
 

Outstanding Faculty Service Award

Victor Holtcamp 
Chair and Associate Professor
Department of Theatre and Dance

Anyone who has heard Victor Holtcamp ask, “Is there anything I can do for you?” knows it is more than a courtesy — it is a commitment. Victor’s service to Tulane extends across the institution, from chairing the Senate Committee on Academic Freedom and Responsibilities to serving on the Ad Hoc Committee on Institutional Neutrality and the Faculty Senate. Within the School of Liberal Arts, he leads with the same dedication, chairing departmental committees, advising students, and supporting initiatives like the McWilliams Day of Service.

As faculty advisor to the Tulane University Performing Arts Society and a mentor to students at every level, Victor brings a depth of care and attention that defines his approach to leadership. His continued investment in professional development, including Tulane’s Emerging Leaders Program and national leadership training, reflects a belief that how one leads matters as much as what one leads.

April Brayfield Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award

Karissa Haugeberg
Associate Professor
Department of History

Karissa Haugeberg is an exceptional educator whose teaching is defined by both rigor and accessibility. She has served on more than 30 honors thesis committees, supervised numerous independent studies, and advised graduate students across disciplines.

In the classroom, Karissa is known for her engaging lectures and thoughtfully curated discussions that challenge students while making complex material approachable. She has developed innovative, interdisciplinary courses and co-taught large-scale classes, including a legal history course and work within the Stem Squared program. Her commitment to students is evident in the relationships she builds — ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and challenged.
 

Community Award

Angela Ramirez
Administrative Director
Spanish Language Program

Through her work with Puentes New Orleans, Angela Ramirez has built meaningful and lasting connections between Tulane and the Latinx community. As both former executive director and current board member, she has helped create pathways for support, education, and engagement.

Her leadership has been especially impactful in times of need, helping ensure that families maintain access to essential services through culturally responsive outreach. By involving students and faculty in these efforts, Angela has created opportunities for engaged learning that extend beyond the classroom. Her work embodies the spirit of community, belonging, and care recognized by this award.
 

Outstanding Staff Award

Ciera Dickerson
Operations Supervisor
Department of Philosophy

Ciera Dickerson is recognized for her steady leadership during a period of significant disruption for the Department of Philosophy. Amid a renovation-driven relocation, she ensured continuity of operations by coordinating across administrative units, managing logistics, and maintaining consistent support for faculty and graduate students.

From securing alternative spaces for teaching and advising to troubleshooting day-to-day challenges, Ciera has been a reliable and resourceful presence. Her ability to translate shifting constraints into workable solutions has preserved the department’s ability to function and thrive during a time of transition.

Outstanding Faculty Research or Creative Activities Award

Karisma Price
Assistant Professor
Department of English

Karisma Price is a nationally recognized poet and media artist whose work has garnered widespread acclaim. Her debut collection, I’m Always So Serious, was named a New York Times Editors’ Choice and has been featured prominently in national literary conversations.

Karisma’s achievements include the prestigious Whiting Award in Poetry, as well as recognition through the Writing Freedom Fellowship from Haymarket Books and the Mellon Foundation. Her work has appeared in leading journals and has been featured in documentary films marking the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Through her creative practice, Karisma continues to shape contemporary literary discourse.

Outstanding Faculty Research or Creative Activities Award

Adeline Masquelier
Professor
Department of Anthropology

Adeline Masquelier is an internationally recognized scholar whose work has significantly advanced the study of religion and society in West Africa. Since joining Tulane in 1993, she has authored multiple monographs and edited volumes, with another forthcoming from Cambridge University Press.

Her distinguished career includes fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the American Council of Learned Societies, as well as major book awards for her scholarship. Adeline has also served as editor of leading journals in her field and continues to contribute new research through ongoing book projects examining development, education, and social life in Niger.