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Education is Beyond Transfer of Knowledge – Oluyemisi Oloniyo, US-Based Women of Distinction and Woman of the Year Award Recipient

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WSU Woman of Distinction Award Recipient: An Interview with Oluyemisi Oloniyo
Recognizing Excellence in Leadership, Education, and Community Impact
The Woman of Distinction Award is a prestigious recognition presented by Washington State University (WSU), Pullman, Washington, United States. This award honors individuals who have contributed significantly to academic excellence, leadership, public service, and social change. It recognizes those who have worked to elevate the status of women and have demonstrated exceptional leadership in their fields and communities. The WSU Women* of Distinction and Woman* of the Year Awards are traditionally presented annually during National Women’s History Month to recognize the achievements and contributions of women to the academic and local community, and to the society.
Recipients of this award have distinguished themselves in career, leadership, and public service. They have contributed to the personal growth and success of others, particularly women, beyond their expected job responsibilities. Through their work, they have created positive social changes, increased equality, and helped build strong communities.
One of the distinguished recipients of The President’s Commission on The Status of Women’s 2025 Woman of Distinction in the Graduate Student Category from the Pullman campus is Oluyemisi Oloniyo. She is an educational psychologist, program evaluator, and community development advocate whose work has made a lasting impact in academic and public service. In this interview, she shares her thoughts on the award, the significance of her work, and the role of education in community development.
Interviewer: Congratulations, Oluyemisi, on being awarded as a 2025 Woman of Distinction in the Graduate Student Category from the Pullman campus. How do you feel about receiving this honor?
Oluyemisi: Thank you so much! I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition from Washington State University. Being named the first Nigerian graduate student to receive this award is incredibly meaningful to me. This award acknowledges the dedication and contributions of women who strive to create positive change in academia and community development. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an inspiring network of women making a difference.
Interviewer: Before we dive deeper into your achievements, can you share a bit about your background and what led you to your current role?
Oluyemisi: Absolutely! My journey in education began in Nigeria, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics Education and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Lagos. I spent several years working in K-12 education in Lagos, Nigeria, serving in various leadership roles, including as a classroom teacher, teacher training coordinator, assessment coordinator, Head of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), and Head of Curriculums and Quality Assurance.
Moving to the United States, I pursued my passion for educational research and evaluation, earning a Master of Arts in Educational Psychology with a focus on Program Evaluation at Washington State University in 2023. Currently, I am a Ph.D. student in Educational Psychology at Washington State University in Pullman, Washington. Alongside my studies, I work as a Program Evaluator and Facilitator at the Center for Civic Engagement, where I contribute to research-driven community initiatives and program assessments. My academic and professional journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to educational equity, program effectiveness, and teacher development.
Interviewer: What does this award represent to you?
Oluyemisi: This award affirms the significance of my work in educational assessment, program evaluation, and teacher development. It also highlights my role in mentoring future educators and researchers, especially those who will continue to break barriers in the field.
In addition, this recognition acknowledges my leadership role in Pullman 2040, a community development initiative in Pullman, Washington, United States, where I have been actively involved in shaping the Education & Learning (EL) initiative. As a leadership team member, I have been instrumental in developing programs that promote educational innovation and strengthen community learning. This work reflects my commitment to bridging research with practice and ensuring that education serves not just individuals but the entire community.
Furthermore, I serve as the Campus Liaison for the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Division K (Teaching and Teacher Education). In this role, I connect with campus communities and collaborate with the Community Building Committee to develop programming that supports graduate students’ professional and academic growth. This experience allows me to advocate for graduate students, foster professional development opportunities, and contribute to strengthening the research and teaching community within and beyond my institution.
Interviewer: Can you share a bit about the work or achievements that led to this recognition?
Oluyemisi: My work spans educational assessment, program evaluation, teacher education, and community development. I have contributed to evaluating nationally funded education and STEM programs in the United States. My work also includes developing teacher training programs that equip educators to implement effective assessment practices in diverse classrooms.
Beyond research and evaluation, I have actively worked to mentor college students, educators, and evaluators. I have facilitated mentorship programs and workshops that empower professionals in the field and contribute to the development of future educational leaders. My involvement in community-based projects reflects my dedication to improving educational access and outcomes at both local and global levels.
Interviewer: The Woman of Distinction Award also recognizes contributions to social change and mentorship. How have these aspects shaped your career?
Oluyemisi: Mentorship and advocacy have been at the core of my professional journey. I have been privileged to work with exceptional educators, researchers, and evaluators who have guided and supported me, and I firmly believe in paying that forward. Education is more than knowledge transfer; it is about empowering individuals, building confidence, and creating opportunities for those who may not have had them otherwise.
I have always been intentional about supporting and uplifting others, especially women and educators. In my research and community-based work, I strive to create environments where diverse perspectives are valued, and individuals feel equipped to thrive. Whether through my academic contributions, leadership roles, or mentorship initiatives, my goal is always to ensure that education creates opportunities, fosters innovation, and leads to meaningful societal change.
Interviewer: The awards ceremony will take place on March 24. What are you most looking forward to?
Oluyemisi: I look forward to celebrating with my mentors, colleagues, and fellow honorees. This event is not just about recognition; it is an opportunity to highlight the importance of leadership, education, and community engagement. I am excited to connect with other distinguished recipients, share insights, and reflect on the collective contributions of women making a difference in their respective fields.
More importantly, I see this as an opportunity to express gratitude—to those who have mentored me, supported my journey, and provided opportunities for my work to make an impact. The Woman of Distinction Award reminds us that we do not achieve success alone; it is built on the foundation of community, collaboration, and shared purpose.
Interviewer: Finally, what message do you have for emerging leaders and professionals striving to make an impact?
Oluyemisi: My message to emerging leaders and professionals is simple: commit to excellence, lead purposefully, and never underestimate the power of mentorship and collaboration. Whether in education, research, or any other field, your work has value. Keep refining your skills, seek out mentors, and always be willing to learn and adapt.
Leadership is not about titles but about the impact you make and the lives you touch. The most significant contributions often happen not in moments of recognition but in small, consistent efforts to empower others, create opportunities, and drive meaningful change.
Interviewer: That is truly inspiring, Oluyemisi. Congratulations once again on this well-deserved recognition!
Oluyemisi: Thank you! I am deeply honored and excited for what’s ahead.
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