Nominations are now open for the 2026–2027 Assessment Champion Award.

The Assessment Champion Award celebrates individuals who lead assessment efforts, promote effective assessment processes, and make significant contributions to the continuous improvement of learning at Penn State. Champions are typically faculty members or academic administrators who demonstrate a deep commitment to enhancing student learning outcomes and strengthening the overall quality of education across the University.

Assessment Champions often demonstrate one or more of the following characteristics:

• Expertise in assessment practices
• Advocacy for student success through targeted, data-informed interventions
• A collaborative spirit that enhances assessment literacy within their units
• Commitment to continuous improvement and evidence-based decision-making
• Effective communication of the importance of assessment to diverse stakeholders
• Innovation and adaptability in exploring new assessment approaches and technologies
• Dedication to equity and inclusion in assessment practices

Assessment Champions collaborate with the Office of Planning, Assessment, and Institutional Research (OPAIR) to elevate their efforts — exploring innovative practices, refining methodologies, and developing creative solutions to complex assessment-related challenges.

Together, we work to strengthen the quality and effectiveness of assessment efforts, enhance the educational experience for students, and advance Penn State’s mission of academic excellence.

Learn more and submit a nomination:
https://opair.psu.edu/assessment/champions/

The Schreyer Institute’s Curriculum and Instruction Renewal Program (CIRP) supports faculty-led efforts to advance curricular growth, innovation, and adaptation across academic units. This program is designed to enrich undergraduate instruction, support the work of curriculum redesign, and prepare instructors to teach updated course content.

CIRP offers competitive grants that include supplemental compensation for a project leader, with additional funding available to support project development and implementation.

To participate in the 2026–27 application cycle, applicants must meet with a Schreyer Institute consultant to discuss initial ideas by April 10, 2026. To schedule a meeting, email site@psu.edu with “CIRP” in the subject line.

Learn more:
https://www.schreyerinstitute.psu.edu/cirp

Registration is now open for the Spring 2026 Assessment Workshop Series, presented by the Office of Planning, Assessment, and Institutional Research (OPAIR).

This virtual series is designed to support assessment leaders and faculty in strengthening program assessment efforts across the University. Sessions include practical guidance on using Nuventive, Penn State’s online assessment management system, along with strategies to enhance assessment planning, reporting, and continuous improvement.

The workshops are free and open to all members of the Penn State community.

View full details and register:
https://opair.psu.edu/assessment/resources