UAGC Scholarly Publication on Student Success Wins National Literature Award

Book edited by UAGC faculty recognized by UPCEA for advancing online learning and student success

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A scholarly volume edited by faculty and staff from the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) has been selected to receive the 2026 Phillip E. Frandson Award for Literature from UPCEA, the national association for professional, continuing, and online education. The award recognizes "Building Collaborative Learning Communities to Drive Student Success" as an outstanding contribution to the advancement of online and professional higher education.

Why it matters

This award reflects the quality of scholarship and innovation led by faculty and staff at UAGC and their contributions to national conversations about student success and online education. The book advances research and practice in meaningful ways, and it reflects the mission of the university to expand access and support student success through high-quality education.

The details

The volume brings together insights from 15 authors across four countries, offering research and practical perspectives on strengthening student achievement through collaborative leadership, instructional strategies, community building, and student-centered learning environments. Published in 2025, "Building Collaborative Learning Communities to Drive Student Success" explores themes including artificial intelligence in education, collaborative coaching, instructional practices, and leadership approaches that enhance student-centered learning environments.

  • The book was published in 2025.
  • UPCEA will formally recognize the recipients at the UPCEA 2026 Annual Conference, held in New Orleans, Louisiana, April 15–17, 2026.

The players

Robin Dhakal

Co-editor and assistant professor at UAGC.

Bill Davis

Co-editor, assistant professor, and program chair at UAGC.

Kira Heske

Co-editor and associate director of the Learning Support team at UAGC.

Gary Packard

Senior vice provost of Online Initiatives at the University of Arizona.

UPCEA

The national association for professional, continuing, and online education.

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What they’re saying

“Our hope with this publication was to elevate evidence-based strategies that help students feel supported, connected, and empowered.”

— Robin Dhakal, Co-editor and assistant professor at UAGC

“It's a privilege to have our work recognized by UPCEA through this award. This book reflects the collective expertise of global contributors who share a common commitment to improving outcomes for learners.”

— Bill Davis, Co-editor, assistant professor, and program chair at UAGC

What’s next

UPCEA will formally recognize the recipients through national promotional opportunities and engagement at the UPCEA 2026 Annual Conference, held in New Orleans, Louisiana, April 15–17, 2026.

The takeaway

This award reflects the quality of scholarship and innovation led by faculty and staff at UAGC and their contributions to national conversations about student success and online education. The book advances research and practice in meaningful ways, and it reflects the mission of the university to expand access and support student success through high-quality education.