The Citadel Swain Family School of Science and Mathematics is Proud to Present the 2025 Inductees into The Citadel Academy of Science and Mathematics!
Distinguished Alumni Award
Mr. Steve Lawler ’82
Stephen J. Lawler is a seasoned healthcare executive with a distinguished career spanning over four decades, dedicated to healthcare management, policy development, and service delivery innovation. A 1982 graduate of The Citadel with a B.S. in Physical Education, he credits his tenure at the institution for shaping his leadership philosophy and remains actively engaged as a member of the Swain Family School of Science and Mathematics Advisory Board since 2019.
Lawler is a retired U.S. Army Medical Service Corps Officer, where he held key command and staff roles, including service with the Army Surgeon General. In his civilian career, he has led both rural and large healthcare systems, including prominent roles at Carolinas HealthCare System and Vidant Medical Center, overseeing healthcare network expansions, clinical improvements, and operational growth. He also served as President & CEO of the North Carolina Healthcare Association (NCHA), where he represented 135 hospitals and health systems, leading policy advancements, Medicaid expansion in North Carolina, and securing an additional $4 billion in federal funding for hospitals.
Now retired from NCHA, Lawler leads his own leadership coaching and consultancy firm, helping organizations and individuals achieve their full potential. A dedicated mentor and educator, he has served as adjunct faculty at East Carolina University and guest lectured at Duke University, UNC, and the Medical University of South Carolina. His board service includes the Duke Margolis Center for Health Policy and the North Carolina Healthcare Foundation. Recognized for his contributions, he has received numerous awards, including the 2013 ACHE Regent’s Award for Senior Leadership and the NCHA Distinguished Service Award. His legacy is defined by visionary leadership, strategic impact, and a steadfast commitment to healthcare excellence and community well-being.
Dr. Rick Pugh ’85
Dr. James Richard (Rick) Pugh, a distinguished alumnus of The Citadel, Class of 1985, has had a remarkable career in chemistry, making significant contributions to both the scientific community and the business world. After earning his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina, Rick began his professional journey at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, where he developed new solar energy conversion devices. He later led innovative research at the Tennessee Valley Authority, focusing on environmental remediation techniques for contaminated soils.
Rick’s leadership at Harrell Industries, where he has served as President since 2010, has been transformative. Under his guidance, the company has become a leader in high-purity chemical manufacturing for the electronics, nuclear, and energy storage industries. He played a pivotal role in developing groundbreaking products and processes for nuclear waste disposal and for microchip manufacturing. Rick’s contributions to The Citadel extend beyond his professional achievements. He has supported the School of Science and Mathematics through both financial donations, including an ICP spectrometer for the chemistry department, and by offering his expertise in safety protocols. A committed community leader, Rick has served as an assistant Scoutmaster and an usher at Providence United Methodist Church, embodying the values of honor, duty, and respect.
Distinguished Faculty Award
Dr. Shankar Banik – Cyber and Computer Sciences
Dr. Shankar M. Banik is a distinguished academic and leader in the field of cybersecurity. Serving as a Professor and Department Head in the Department of Cyber and Computer Sciences at The Citadel, he has made significant contributions to both education and research since joining the institution in 2006. Dr. Banik holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Oklahoma and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to enhancing student learning experiences through innovative course development and mentorship.
Under his leadership, Dr. Banik has spearheaded the creation of key programs, including the Citadel DoD Cyber Institute and the CyberCorps® Scholarship for Service, securing over $14 million in external funding for various initiatives. His research spans critical areas such as network security and cybersecurity, earning him national and international recognition. Dr. Banik’s mentorship has led numerous students to publish their research and present at prestigious conferences, fostering a culture of excellence within the department. Beyond his academic endeavors, Dr. Banik is known for his dedicated service to the community and the broader cybersecurity field, participating in partnerships with organizations like the Department of Defense. His leadership and unwavering support have greatly influenced the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, making him an exemplary candidate for the CASM Distinguished Faculty Award.
Early-Career Faculty Award
Dr. Kaelyn Leake – Physics
Dr. Kaelyn Leake is an accomplished Associate Professor of Physics at The Citadel, where she has made significant contributions since joining the faculty in 2020. With a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Santa Cruz, Dr. Leake specializes in photonics and nanoscience, establishing an active research lab focused on innovative thin-film fabrication techniques. Her published work in respected journals, including “Nanotechnology” and “Review of Scientific Instruments,” underscores her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field.
Dr. Leake is also recognized for her exceptional teaching skills, creating an engaging and supportive classroom environment that encourages student participation. She teaches a variety of courses, from introductory physics to advanced capstone projects, and is developing a new course on the physics of sports to attract a broader range of students. Her dedication to mentoring is evident through her involvement in high-achieving capstone teams, which have won multiple awards in regional competitions.
Beyond teaching and research, Dr. Leake actively participates in community outreach, promoting STEM education among high school students. She serves as a major advisor, faculty advisor for the Society of Physics Students, and has been instrumental in designing hands-on projects that spark interest in physics. Dr. Leake’s dynamic contributions have positioned her as a vital member of The Citadel community, earning her numerous accolades, including the C.A. Medbery Award for Dedication to Teaching.
Staff Award
Ms. Vanessa McFadden
Ms. Vanessa McFadden is a dedicated professional currently serving in the Dean’s Office at The Citadel. Initially joining the institution as a part-time employee in the Financial Aid Office, she quickly showcased her exceptional abilities and commitment, which led her to a full-time position that perfectly aligned with her skills. Vanessa has become an invaluable resource for the Swain Familyt School of Science and Mathematics administration, where she excels in effective communication and collaboration.
She consistently ensures that all administrative staff are informed and equipped to handle new policies and software implementations, fostering an inclusive environment where ideas and solutions are freely shared. Her leadership style is characterized by professionalism and a strong ethical foundation. Vanessa maintains confidentiality and a positive demeanor, even in challenging situations. She is known for her problem-solving skills, frequently working behind the scenes with faculty and financial services to address concerns and create solutions that benefit everyone involved. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Vanessa plays a pivotal role in planning events such as the CASM Banquet. Her attention to detail, from coordinating departmental information to organizing special touches like logo-themed treats and ice sculptures, ensures that events are enjoyable and memorable for all attendees. Vanessa McFadden’s dedication and hard work make her a deserving nominee for the CASM Staff Award, as she consistently goes above and beyond to support the SoSM community.
Non-tenure/Adjunct Faculty Award
Melissa Myrick – Mathematics
Ms. Melissa Myrick is a dedicated mathematics instructor at The Citadel, having joined the Department of Mathematical Sciences in the fall of 2020. Initially serving as an adjunct faculty member, she quickly transitioned to a full-time role, taking on responsibilities as the course coordinator for MATH 119 (Precalculus) and leading the Mathematics Readiness Program. With a strong focus on student success, Melissa has developed an engaging and supportive learning environment, particularly for first-year students who often struggle with foundational math skills.
Her teaching methods include providing guided notes and review materials, fostering collaborative learning, and offering extra review sessions to ensure students are well-prepared for exams. Students consistently commend her for her enthusiasm, clarity, and dedication, noting her remarkable ability to break down complex topics and ensure comprehension. In addition to her teaching contributions, Melissa actively supports her peers and invests in the academic growth of her students, often going above and beyond to provide resources and personalized assistance. Her commitment to student engagement and academic success has earned her excellent evaluations from both students and faculty. Recognized as a role model and mentor, Melissa embodies the values of dedication and passion for mathematics education. Her impact on student learning and her contributions to The Citadel community make her a deserving candidate for the 2024 CASM Non-Tenure Line/Adjunct Professor Award.