The University of Puget Sound has been honored with the Beacon Award for Excellence in Student Achievement and Success by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, recognizing the transformative Freedom Education Project Puget Sound (FEPPS). Co-founded by Professor Tanya Erzen, FEPPS provides higher education to incarcerated women, transgender, and gender-nonconforming individuals at the Washington Corrections Center for Women. President Isiaah Crawford praised the award as a testament to the university's commitment to the transformative power of education and community engagement. Since its launch in 2012, FEPPS has facilitated over 325 student enrollments, resulting in 72 Associate of Arts degrees, with Bachelor of Arts degrees set to begin in 2024. Furthermore, Professor Andreas Madlung received the Lynwood W.

Swanson Scientific Research Award for his outstanding research in plant biology, while Professor Sam Kigar was awarded the President’s Excellence in Teaching Award for his exceptional contributions to student engagement. This article highlights the university’s commitment to innovative educational programs and faculty excellence, celebrating individual achievements while reflecting the institution's broader mission of promoting academic success and social justice. Puget Sound's initiatives have a profound impact on the lives of marginalized individuals in the community.