UAGC Scholarly Publication on Student Success Wins National Literature Award from UPCEA
February 11, 2026
[Chandler, AZ, February 11, 2026] 鈥 A scholarly volume edited by faculty and staff from the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) has been selected to receive the from , the national association for professional, continuing, and online education. The award recognizes , published by , as an outstanding contribution to the advancement of online and professional higher education.
The Phillip E. Frandson Award is among UPCEA鈥檚 highest national honors and is awarded through an international review process recognizing publications that meaningfully advance the ideas and practice of online learning, student success, and continuing education.
鈥淭his recognition is an incredible honor for our work and for the University of Arizona Global Campus,鈥 said Robin Dhakal, co-editor and assistant professor at UAGC. 鈥淥ur hope with this publication was to elevate evidence-based strategies that help students feel supported, connected, and empowered. Receiving the Frandson Award affirms the importance of collaborative learning communities as a foundation for student success.鈥
The volume brings together insights from 15 authors across four countries, offering research and practical perspectives on strengthening student achievement through collaborative leadership, instructional strategies, community building, and student-centered learning environments.
鈥淚t鈥檚 a privilege to have our work recognized by UPCEA through this award,鈥 said Bill Davis, co-editor, assistant professor, and program chair at UAGC. 鈥淭his book reflects the collective expertise of global contributors who share a common commitment to improving outcomes for learners. We鈥檙e grateful to UPCEA and to IGI Global Scientific Publishing for supporting scholarship that advances the future of higher education.鈥
The book also emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping learning environments that support student engagement and persistence in online and professional settings.
鈥淒eveloped through a truly global collaboration, this work highlights innovative approaches to leadership, instructional design, and community building in professional and online learning,鈥 said Kira Heske, co-editor and associate director of the Learning Support team at UAGC. 鈥淭his award reflects the strength of collaboration across institutions, disciplines, and borders鈥攅xactly the type of learning culture the book promotes.鈥
Published in 2025, Building Collaborative Learning Communities to Drive Student Success explores themes including artificial intelligence in education, collaborative coaching, instructional practices, and leadership approaches that enhance student-centered learning environments. The volume serves as a resource for educators, administrators, researchers, and practitioners seeking actionable strategies to strengthen academic community and improve outcomes for diverse student populations.
鈥淭his award reflects the quality of scholarship and innovation led by faculty and staff at UAGC and their contributions to national conversations about student success and online education,鈥 said Gary Packard, senior vice provost of Online Initiatives at the . 鈥淭his work advances research and practice in meaningful ways, and it reflects the mission of the university to expand access and support student success through high-quality education.鈥
UPCEA will formally recognize the recipients through national promotional opportunities and engagement at the , held in New Orleans, Louisiana, April 15鈥17, 2026.
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