The University of Wisconsin-Platteville College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science proudly announces that Dr. Mohammad Rabbani, professor of chemistry, has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the 2025–2026 EMS Excellence in Service Award. This recognition honors Dr. Rabbani’s exceptional and sustained contributions to students, faculty, the institution, and the broader community through leadership, collaboration, and impactful service.
Throughout his career at UW-Platteville, Dr. Rabbani has demonstrated a deep commitment to service as a foundational element of his professional mission. His work spans student mentorship, departmental leadership, college governance, university initiatives, and community engagement, reflecting a holistic and far-reaching impact.
At the student level, Dr. Rabbani has shown an unwavering dedication to mentorship and academic success. He provides personalized advising, supports undergraduate research, and actively guides students in presenting their work at regional and statewide conferences, including the WiSys SPARK Symposium, the Rotunda at the State Capitol, and UW-Platteville’s PCARD event. His mentorship has helped students secure competitive research opportunities and funding, fostering confidence, professional growth, and long-term success.
Dr. Rabbani’s departmental leadership has been equally transformative. As Chair of the Curriculum Committee, he led the development of a new minor in Biochemistry and certificate programs in Biochemistry and Polymers, strengthening academic offerings and positioning the department for future growth. He has also contributed extensively to assessment initiatives, accreditation efforts, faculty mentoring, and the management of critical research instrumentation, ensuring both academic quality and operational excellence.
At the college level, Dr. Rabbani has provided exceptional leadership through his service on key committees, including the EMS Budget Committee, Compensation Committee, and Professional Development Committee, which he chairs. In addition, he served as Chair of the EMS Excellence Awards Committee, helping to recognize and promote faculty achievements across the college. His collaboration with college leadership led to the implementation of a new, flexible professional development funding model, improving access to resources and supporting faculty success.
Dr. Rabbani’s service extends to the university through his role on the Improvement and Learning Committee, where he contributes to initiatives that enhance institutional effectiveness and student learning outcomes.
Beyond campus, Dr. Rabbani is deeply engaged in the community through STEM outreach and partnership initiatives. He regularly brings local middle and high school students into UW-Platteville laboratories for hands-on experiences and mentors Science Olympiad teams, whose participants have achieved top placements at state competitions. He also supports regional development by collaborating with local businesses on research and development projects that contribute to economic growth and innovation.
A strong advocate for undergraduate research, Dr. Rabbani has secured more than $80,000 in research funding in 2025–2026 alone, including a prestigious WiSys grant, and has built sustainable programs that provide students with hands-on research opportunities. His broader funding portfolio and recognition—including the UW System Regent Scholar Award—highlight his long-standing commitment to student-centered scholarship and service.
Colleagues describe Dr. Rabbani as a collaborative and impactful leader whose service strengthens academic programs, enhances institutional processes, and fosters a culture of engagement and excellence across campus and beyond.
“Dr. Rabbani’s service embodies the mission of UW–Platteville,” noted a colleague in his nomination. “His contributions positively impact every level of the institution, from student success to community engagement.”
The EMS Excellence in Service Award recognizes faculty who demonstrate outstanding dedication to service and institutional advancement. As the first-ever recipient of this award, Dr. Rabbani sets a high standard for excellence, reflecting a commitment that strengthens the university and enriches the experiences of students, colleagues, and community partners alike.