About Dr. Leslie Korb: Dr. Leslie Korb has dedicated more than 30 years to a career in higher education. As the first in her family to earn a degree from a four-year institution, she brings a deep personal understanding of the transformative power of education to her work. Known for her commitment to student success and mentorship, Dr. Korb finds the greatest joy in spending time with her students. She currently lives with her beloved cat, Joie.

From their nomination: This award is presented in recognition of Dr. Korb's leadership in reimagining Notre Dame of Maryland University’s first-year experience through the integration of meaningful service-learning. Dr. Korb's innovative design of the NDMU 100 course connected academic skill-building with authentic community engagement, empowering students to translate lessons in goal setting, communication, and time management into interactive workshops for middle school students in Baltimore City. Through Dr. Korb's guidance, first-year students became both learners and teachers—bridging campus and community, fostering confidence, and cultivating empathy. Dr. Korb's intentional approach to reflection and reciprocity embodies the highest ideals of service-learning, creating a model of engaged pedagogy that strengthens civic identity and advances the public purposes of higher education.