Central Michigan University has announced the recipients of its most prestigious annual awards for the 2023-24 academic year. The awards recognize outstanding achievements in academics, athletics, leadership, and service by CMU students, faculty, and staff.
Megan Tolmie, a senior on the CMU women’s soccer team, has been named the Academic All-American of the Year by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA). This is the highest honor bestowed by CoSIDA to a student-athlete who excels both on and off the field.
Tolmie, who is majoring in biomedical sciences with a minor in chemistry, has a perfect 4.0 cumulative grade point average. She is also a standout defender on the soccer team, helping the Chippewas win the Mid-American Conference regular season and tournament titles in 2022. She was named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year and earned First Team All-MAC honors for the second consecutive season.
Tolmie is the first CMU student-athlete to receive the Academic All-American of the Year award since Dan LeFevour in 2009. She is also one of only four women’s soccer players in the nation to earn the distinction since its inception in 1988.
Tolmie said she was humbled and honored by the award, which she attributed to her hard work, dedication, and support from her coaches, teammates, professors, and family.
“I’m very grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to represent CMU in such a positive way,” Tolmie said. “It’s been an amazing journey so far, and I’m looking forward to finishing my senior year strong.”
Edwards Receives President’s Award for Excellence
Dr. James Edwards, a professor of mathematics and statistics, has been awarded the President’s Award for Excellence by CMU President Dr. Robert Davies. This is the highest honor given by the president to a faculty or staff member who demonstrates exceptional performance, leadership, and service to the university and its community.
Edwards, who joined CMU in 2015, is a renowned scholar and educator in the field of mathematical biology. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, received over $1 million in external grants, and mentored over 30 undergraduate and graduate students in research projects. He is also an active member of several professional organizations and committees, including the Society for Mathematical Biology and the American Mathematical Society.
Edwards said he was surprised and delighted by the award, which he dedicated to his colleagues, students, and mentors.
“I’m very honored and thankful for this recognition,” Edwards said. “It’s a privilege to work at CMU with such talented and supportive people. I’m passionate about teaching and research, and I hope to inspire others to pursue their interests and goals.”
President Davies praised Edwards for his excellence in scholarship, teaching, and service, which he said exemplifies the mission and vision of CMU.
“Dr. Edwards is an outstanding faculty member who has made significant contributions to his discipline, his department, his college, and his university,” Davies said. “He is a role model for his peers and his students, and a leader in his field. He embodies the spirit of excellence that we strive for at CMU.”
The Academic All-American of the Year award and the President’s Award for Excellence will be presented at a ceremony on October 6 at McGuirk Arena. The ceremony will also honor other CMU students, faculty, and staff who have received awards or recognition during the past year.
