Stephens College Faculty Earn Five Nominations for Missourian Progress Awards
Stephens College is proud to announce that five distinguished faculty members have been nominated for the Columbia Missourian’s 2025 Progress Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to education, the arts, and community advancement in Boone County.
Representing a range of disciplines — from theatre and music to fashion, equestrian studies, and workforce development — these nominations reflect Stephens College’s longstanding commitment to innovation, creativity, and service.
Progress in the Arts: Lisa Brescia and Craig Carnelia
Broadway veterans Lisa Brescia and Craig Carnelia have been jointly nominated for their extraordinary influence on the arts both locally and nationally.
Brescia, who currently serves as Interim Dean of the Conservatory for the Performing Arts, is known for her celebrated Broadway roles in Dear Evan Hansen, Mamma Mia!, Wicked, Aida, and more. Since joining Stephens, she has been a transformative leader, integrating professional artistry, classical training, and academic excellence to prepare students for dynamic careers in performance and storytelling.
Carnelia, a Tony- and Drama Desk–nominated composer and lyricist, is acclaimed for his work on Broadway productions such as Sweet Smell of Success, Imaginary Friends, Is There Life After High School?, and Working. His teaching of “acting through song” and his book The Reason to Sing have influenced performers across the country, including those at Stephens College.
Together, Brescia and Carnelia bring unparalleled professional experience and mentorship to mid-Missouri, inspiring students and colleagues alike through their dedication to artistic integrity and excellence.
Progress in the Arts: Dr. Monica McMurry ’82
A leader in design education for more than three decades, Dr. Monica McMurry, professor and former Dean of the School of Design, has also been nominated in the Progress in the Arts category.
A Stephens alumna, McMurry graduated summa cum laude in Fashion Design before earning her master’s and doctorate from the University of Missouri. She is known nationally for her expertise in fashion history, menswear, couture construction, and sustainability, as well as for her curatorial work with the Stephens College Costume Museum and Research Library.
Her scholarship and design presentations have reached international audiences, and her mentorship has shaped generations of designers who embody Stephens’ tradition of creativity and craftsmanship.
Progress in Education and Sherman Brown Award: Sara Linde Patel ’02
Sara Linde Patel, associate professor of equestrian studies and Stephens alumna, has earned two nominations—one for the Progress in Education Award and another for the Sherman Brown Award.
Since joining the faculty in 2006, Patel has become a cornerstone of the Equestrian Studies program, recognized for her teaching excellence, compassion, and leadership. A two-time recipient of Stephens’ Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award, she exemplifies the College’s commitment to hands-on, values-driven education.
Patel’s innovative approach links equestrian science with ethics, responsibility, and community engagement. She has led collaborations with FFA programs, local schools, and the University of Missouri’s Women in STEM Research initiative—expanding access to equine and veterinary sciences for women and underserved students.
Progress in Education: Dr. R. Scott Taylor
Dr. R. Scott Taylor, Dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Studies and Chair of the Business Administration Program, has been nominated for the Progress in Education Award for his visionary leadership in workforce and technical education.
A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Taylor has pioneered initiatives that expand opportunity for women and underrepresented communities, including the region’s first Women in Trades Construction Pre-Apprenticeship program. Under his direction, the program secured a $300,000 Highway Construction Training Program grant and built partnerships with Habitat for Humanity and Douglass High School to provide pre-apprenticeship credentials and industry experience.
His leadership extends beyond campus through roles with the Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI), where he advocates for education as a driver of economic growth and equity.
“These nominations showcase the remarkable breadth of talent and dedication among our faculty,” said Dr. Shannon B. Lundeen, President of Stephens College. “Each of these individuals represents the very best of what Stephens stands for: excellence in education, creativity in practice, and a deep commitment to empowering others.”
The Missourian Progress Awards honor Boone County residents who demonstrate exceptional achievement and leadership in advancing their fields and communities. Winners will be announced later this fall.
