USU Southwest Assistant Professor Named 2025 CHaSS Teacher of the Year

EPHRAIM, Utah — Utah State University Southwest clinical assistant professor Julie Stevens has earned the Teacher of the Year award in the USU College of Humanities & Social Sciences. Stevens teaches courses in the Department of Social Work. The award will be presented in an awards ceremony on March 1.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition, as teaching is not just my profession but a commitment to empowering students within their own communities,” Stevens said. “I believe education should be accessible, relevant, and rooted in the strengths of the communities we serve. This award is a reflection of my students’ dedication and the collective efforts of those who believe in the power of education to transform lives.”

Stevens is a USU Statewide graduate, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in social work with a minor in psychology in 2016. Stevens would go on to earn a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Utah in 2017. She says her goal as an educator is to not only support students today, but to help create lasting change to impact future generations.

“I am grateful to ETE for fostering a culture of lifelong learning — both for educators and students — and for supporting my growth as I strive to build an inclusive, dynamic learning environment,” she said.

Stevens joined the USU faculty in Ephraim in 2022 after working for four years as a school-contracted mental health therapist at the Central Utah Counseling Center. She is now teaching in Nephi.

“USU Southwest is proud to support Stevens in her teaching and research,” said Nancy Glomb, associate vice president for the Southwest Region. “She is a fantastic teacher and is definitely deserving of this award."

The Teacher of the Year award is given each year to recognize and promote excellence in teaching.

With locations in Beaver, Bicknell, Cedar City, Delta, Ephraim, Junction, Kanab, Nephi, Panguitch, Richfield, and St. George, Utah State University provides higher education access to rural communities via USU Southwest. With degree options ranging from associate to doctorate degrees and technical education opportunities, USU offers programs that help fuel local economies and empower individuals and their communities. Learn more at southwest.usu.edu.