Honoring the 2025 David G. Imig Distinguished Service Award Recipients

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 David G. Imig Distinguished Service Award: Dr. Kofi Lomotey of Western Carolina University and Dr. Noelle Paufler of Clemson University.

The CPED David G. Imig Distinguished Service award is presented in recognition of an individual who has demonstrated important contributions to the Vision, Mission, and Values of CPED and the reclaiming of the EdD as the highest quality professional practice doctorate in education.  Both honorees exemplify the spirit of Dr. David G. Imig’s legacy through their leadership within CPED, teaching and advising in their EdD programs, and advancing understanding of the EdD through their scholarship. 

Dr. Kofi Lomotey

Chancellor John Bardo & Deborah Bardo Distinguished Professor of Educational Leadership
Western Carolina University, College of Education and Allied Professions

Nominated by Dr. Jess Weiler and Dr. Aarti Bellara, Dr. Lomotey was recognized for his transformative influence as a scholar, mentor, and leader.

The Award Committee applauded his unwavering commitment to:

• Ensuring the EdD remains a rigorous and socially impactful degree.

• Preparing scholarly practitioners to lead systems change.

• Mentoring practitioners across both professional and academic contexts.

Dr. Lomotey’s service to CPED has been exemplary. He has contributed through leadership roles on the New Member Committee, the Dissertation in Practice Award Committee, and the Board of Directors, as well as co-chairing the SJCIG. His extensive scholarship and contributions through convening presentations, publications, and the CPED book series have enriched the field’s understanding of the EdD and its possibilities.

Dr. Noelle Paufler

College of Education
Clemson University

Nominated by Dr. Hans Klars, Dr. Paufler was recognized for her significant contributions across scholarship, program leadership, and service to CPED.

The Award Committee highlighted her accomplishments, including:

• Continuous program improvement and development of student support services.

• Exemplary teaching and advising, resulting in a 100% graduation rate for two EdD cohorts.

• Dedicated service to CPED as a frequent presenter, member of the Impact Strategic Working Group, Clemson Delegate, and chair-elect of the Delegates Council.

Additionally, Dr. Paufler’s scholarship has centered on advancing educational leadership programs and the faculty who coordinate and lead them, offering key insights into program design and implementation.

Celebrating Excellence in Service

The 2025 David G. Imig Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Dr. Lomotey and Dr. Paufler at the CPED Awards Reception on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, during the CPED Convening in Philadelphia, PA (October 22–24).

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Kofi Lomotey and Dr. Noelle Paufler on this well-deserved recognition!