Dr. J. Mark Browning Named 2023 ISU College of Education Kole-McGuffey Award Recipient

The Peter C. Kole - William H. McGuffey Prize for Excellence in Educational Research is the most prestigious award that is bestowed by the Idaho State University College of Education, specifically for doctoral students. 

Browning is a two-time ISU alumnus originally from Stevensville, Montana. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mass communications from ISU in 2008, a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Idaho in 2012, and a doctorate in education degree from ISU in 2022. 

Prior to working in the field of education, Browning spent nearly a quarter century in broadcasting and journalism. In 2007, he began serving as the Chief Legislative and Communications Officer for the Idaho State Board of Education, then in 2012 became the Vice President for Communications and Government Relations at North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene. Browning  later held a similar role at the College of Western Idaho. In 2021, he was chosen to be the 8th president of Blue Mountain Community College in Pendleton, Oregon where he oversees an institution that provides education in a service area of more than 16,500 square miles. Browning’s current research focuses on the student experience in dual credit programs. 

Browning and his wife Kym are now empty nesters of three sons all of whom live in the west/northwest. When they are not chasing after their three grandkids, they enjoy camping, fly fishing, and exploring new areas through travel.

Browning will be recognized during the College of Education’s Celebrating Excellence Award Ceremony on Friday, April 14 in the Stephens Performing Arts Center. To learn more and RSVP for Celebrating Excellence, please visit https://www.isu.edu/education/about/events/celebratingexcellence/.