BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement recently recognized individuals from the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs for their significant contributions to rural communities across the state of Indiana.
Clinical Professor Laura Littlepage, Associate Professor James Farmer, and Sara Marshall, who graduated with her Master of Arts in Arts Administration in 2022 and was a Rural Placemaking Fellow until this past May, were honored with awards for exemplifying a deep commitment to empowering rural voices, expanding networks, addressing pressing challenges, and celebrating the unique culture and heritage of rural life.
“We’re extremely proud of the work professors Littlepage and Farmer have done with the Center for Rural Engagement, and we’re thrilled they have been recognized for their efforts,” said Siân Mooney, dean of the O’Neill School. “It’s also gratifying to see Sara singled out for the passion she brought to her community during her time in our program.”
Littlepage received the Faculty Lifetime Service Award for demonstrating leadership, ethical engagement, commitment, and scholarly contributions representing long-term impact and sustained, measurable, positive outcomes for her partnering communities.
Farmer received the Faculty Engaged Teaching Award for integrating community engagement into his curriculum, using innovative teaching methods, and collaborating with community partners for significant, lasting impact.
Marshall received the Student Community Engagement Award for her exemplary leadership, cultural awareness, ethical engagement, and contributions to positive community and scholarly outcomes. She also was pivotal in forming and launching the Rural Placemaking Studio at the center where she helped bring in 16 partners for 2025.