Award Recipients’ Perceived Benefits of a PK-12 Engagement Awards Program

Faculty and staff in higher education are motivated to engage in college programs by different factors. Award programs can be a tool to engage faculty and staff in programs. This study described the perceived benefits of an engagement award that recognized faculty and staff that had excelled in outreach and program engagement. Data included quantitative scale items and qualitative open-ended response items from award recipients across the College of Agriculture. Award recipients reported benefits included increased overall perceived value of the PK-12 Engagement Program, increased recognition of their program excellence and impact, an increased dissemination of program activities and outcomes, career benefits, and networking opportunities. The funding that accompanied the award was reported to offer support for the program and development of the program. Findings of this study offer insightful information to guide the development of engagement awards for other programs.