Lionel University is proud to announce that Sarah Stooksberry and Jenette Buffum have been named recipients of the 2026 Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) Innovation Award, a prestigious national honor recognizing excellence and forward-thinking leadership in distance education.
The award was presented during the 100th DEAC Annual Conference and Centennial Gala in Washington, D.C., marking a significant milestone for the organization and celebrating a century of advancing quality in distance learning.
“Receiving this award alongside Sarah Stooksberry is an incredible honor and a reflection of the meaningful work happening across higher education,” said Jenette Buffum, Chief Compliance Officer. “It reinforces our shared commitment to thinking differently, pushing boundaries, and creating opportunities that truly impact students’ lives.”
This recognition highlights not only the individual achievements of Stooksberry and Buffum, but also Lionel University’s broader commitment to redefining how education is delivered and experienced. While many institutions adhere to traditional models, Lionel continues to lead with purpose-driven innovation—designing programs that are responsive, student-centered, and aligned with real-world outcomes. Explore our full range of offerings on our programs overview page.
Lionel University’s approach to distance education emphasizes accessibility, engagement, and measurable outcomes—ensuring that students are not only able to participate in learning, but are empowered to achieve goals that may have once seemed out of reach. Students can pursue a variety of pathways, including our master’s programs, bachelor’s degrees, and associate degrees in exercise science.
For those seeking specialized credentials, Lionel also offers professional certifications such as the Master Trainer program and the Lionel Certified Personal Trainer program.
University representatives also participated in key discussions throughout the week in Washington, D.C., engaging with national leaders on the future of higher education, evolving accreditation standards, and negotiated rulemaking. These conversations further underscore Lionel’s role in shaping the direction of the industry.
“This achievement represents more than recognition—it reflects the impact of innovation done with intention,” said Sarah Stooksberry, Office of Academic Advisement at Lionel University. “We are proud to set a standard of excellence and to help drive meaningful change in education.”
As DEAC celebrates 100 years of leadership in distance education, Lionel University remains committed to advancing the field through innovation, collaboration, and a relentless focus on student success.
Lionel University is a forward-thinking institution dedicated to delivering accessible, high-quality education designed for real-world impact. Learn more about us, explore options for financial aid, or contact our team to get started. Through innovative program design and a student-centered approach, Lionel empowers learners to achieve meaningful personal and professional growth in exercise science.