The Academy Fellow medal is awarded each year to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to scholarship, teaching, and academic leadership in Utah. Recipients receive lifetime membership in the academy and a UASAL medal. Keller, a former president of UASAL, was selected by vote of the Utah Academy Board.

Keller was honored not only for her academic accomplishments but also for her long-standing commitment to fostering student success and strengthening Utah’s scholarly community. Her colleagues at Snow College say the recognition is well deserved.

“Rachel Keller is an outstanding teacher and member of the Snow College community,” said Provost Michael Austin. “She cares passionately about education, and she works hard to make her students successful. We are extremely proud of her for receiving this important award.”

As part of the ceremony, Keller also delivered this year’s James H. Wolfe Address, titled “Navigating Difficult Times: What UASAL Offers Us.” Her remarks highlighted the importance of academic collaboration, resilience, and the role of the humanities in understanding challenging moments.

Snow College was further represented at the event by two students who also earned recognition. Miranda Slusser and Savanna Thompson were honored for their research poster, “Body Worlds: Issues of Corpses & Human Dignity, Insights from Rome.” Their project, completed under the mentorship of philosophy professor Gregory Wright as part of a travel seminar in Rome, examined ethical questions surrounding the treatment of human remains.

Wright praised the students’ achievement: “Miranda and Savanna’s poster on the ethical treatment of human remains received universal praise for its content and presentation. Their work not only stands up to that of other undergraduate students around the state but surpasses it.”

Snow College leaders say the recognition of both faculty and students reflects the college’s core values of scholarship, curiosity, and community. The accomplishments of Keller, Slusser and Thompson showcase Snow College’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence.

Founded in 1888, Snow College serves more than 5,000 students across campuses in Ephraim and Richfield and a learning center in Nephi. The institution emphasizes affordability, hands-on learning experiences, and personalized education designed to help students graduate with minimal debt and a strong foundation for future success.

More information about Snow College’s programs and mission can be found at snow.edu.