Adult Education: Edo-Born Scholar, Mathilda Okhuemoi Bags Excellence Award in America -- By Eubaldus Enahoro

  

A Nigerian from Edo State, Mathilda Okhuemoi has been honored with the 2026 John J. Hill Excellence Award for her outstanding academic achievements in the United States of America.

The award was presented to Mathilda Okhuemoi, a doctoral student in Adult and Community Education in the department of Educational Studies, with a cognate in Information and Communication Sciences at the Center for Information and Communication Sciences by the Board of Trustee of the Lifelong Education Association.

Presented at the Alumni Center, Ball State University, Muncie,  Indiana, United States, on May 5, 2026 during the Association of Lifelong Learners Annual Luncheon and Business Meeting Mathilda Okhuemoi was recognized for her outstanding academic achievements, including earning a 4.0 GPA in both her master's and doctoral programs, as well as her contributions to lifelong  learning. 

She was recommended  as a recipient of the John J. Hill Excellence Awardby the Association of Lifelong Learners, a group of retirees and community members interested in continuing to learn and engage with each other on a variety of educational topics.

According to the award citation by BO Chang, Professor of Adult and Community Education, Department of Educational Studies, Teachers College, Ball State University, 

Mathilda Okhuemoi  maintained a 4.0 GPA in both her master’s degree in sociology and her doctoral program in adult education, demonstrating sustained academic excellence and a strong commitment to lifelong learning. 

"Mathilda’s research further advances her commitment to lifelong learning by exploring how adult learning theories such as self-directed and transformative learning—can be integrated with digital technologies to expand access and improve learning outcomes. Her work emphasizes the importance of inclusive, flexible, and technology-enhanced learning environments that meet learners where they are and support their continued development across the lifespan. 

"She is especially passionate about workforce and professional development initiatives that empower underrepresented groups, including women in technology and adult learners re-entering education, helping them adapt, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Prof. Chang noted that Mathilda serves as a graduate assistant at University College and as an academic advisor at the College of Health at Ball State University, where she actively supports students in navigating their academic journeys.

"Recognized for her outstanding academic performance during her master’s degree in sociology, where she was named the top first-year graduate student in her cohort. Mathilda exemplifies a deep and sustained commitment to lifelong learning, academic excellence, and community impact. 

"At the core of Mathilda’s work is a belief that learning is a continuous, transformative process that extends beyond formal education. Her professional and academic pursuits reflect a dedication to fostering lifelong learning among diverse populations, particularly adult learners who are balancing education with complex personal and professional responsibilities.

"Through her advising, she empowers students to see learning as an ongoing pathway for growth, helping them build not only academic plans but also long-term educational and career trajectories. She connects students with critical campus and community resources, cultivates resilience, and equips them with strategies that promote persistence and self-directed learning.

"Before transitioning to academia, Mathilda built a successful career at Zenith Bank Plc, one of Africa’s largest financial institutions, where she advanced to the role of Deputy Manager. Her professional experience in strategic communication, customer engagement, and organizational leadership informs her holistic approach to the management of adult and continuing education and lifelong learning. 

"Since moving to the United States in 2022 to pursue graduate studies, she has intentionally bridged her industry expertise with her academic work to create meaningful, real-world impact.

"Mathilda Okhuemoi’s dedication to continuous learning, her impactful support of students, and her commitment to advancing inclusive educational practices in the workforce make her a strong and deserving candidate for the Lifelong Learner Award.

"Through her work, she not only embodies the principles of lifelong learning but also actively cultivates them in others, contributing to the growth and resilience of individuals and the broader community," he added.

While expressing appreciation to John J. Hill Excellence Award Committee and the leadership of the Association of Lifelong Learners for recognizing Mathilda Okhuemoi’s contributions and commitment to lifelong learning, Prof. Chang thanked Jim Lee, the President of the Association of Lifelong Learners, for coordinating the business luncheon.

In her response, Mathilda Okhuemoi thanked the Association of Lifelong Learners, Ball State University, for the recognition.

"it is an honor to be recognized, and I look forward to continuing my journey in fostering a love for learning in others. As I reflect on this achievement, no achievement is ever accomplished in isolation, I am reminded of the countless mentors and learners who have shaped my path. Their passion fuels my dedication to creating opportunities for others to explore and thrive in their educational pursuits. 

"This award stands as a testament to my commitment to lifelong learning and will always serve as a reminder to keep learning," she noted