2025 Presidential Excellence Award Winners
ach year the University of Louisville recognizes the incredible work of faculty and staff with the annual presidential excellence awards. Congratulations to our winners in 2024!
George J. Howe Distinguished Staff Award | Trustees Award
Cardinal Principles Champions | Distinguished Faculty Awards | Outstanding Performance Awards | Outstanding Supervisor Award | Team Impact Award
George J. Howe Distinguished Staff Award
The annual George J. Howe Distinguished Staff Award recognizes the contributions of an extraordinary University of Louisville staff member who exemplifies the traits of its namesake George J. Howe (humility, generosity, and excellence in leadership) as well as the Cardinal Principles. This staff member's career has had an exceptional impact on the university and its vision to be a great place to learn, work, and in which to invest.
Linda Leake | Delphi Center | Instructional Design and Technology Specialist III
From the nomination:
"As a Computer Specialist, Blackboard Technical Support Trainer, and Instructional Designer at the Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Louisville, Linda has demonstrated exemplary service, innovation, and leadership in enhancing educational technology and faculty support for thirty-eight years! Linda's impact on instructional design and learning management systems (LMS) is immeasurable. Since joining the University of Louisville in 1995, she has played an instrumental role in faculty training, online course development, and implementing cutting-edge pedagogical strategies. Her expertise in Blackboard Ultra and related instructional technologies has empowered faculty to create dynamic and accessible online learning environments that improve student engagement and outcomes. Her continuous efforts to analyze and evaluate new technologies ensure that the university remains at the forefront of digital learning innovations. Linda's leadership extends beyond faculty training; she has played a critical role in the university's transition to new learning management system features and software tools. Her commitment to service further exemplifies her ongoing contributions to faculty and student support. Linda Leake's extraordinary work ethic, technical expertise, and dedication to enhancing teaching and learning make her an ideal recipient for the George J. Howe Distinguished Staff Award. Her impact on faculty development, instructional technology, and student success at the University of Louisville is unparalleled. If universities had a heart, Linda is the heart of the Cards family. She works tirelessly, efficiently, and behind the scenes to make sure we provide our students with our best instruction.”
Trustees Award
The Board of Trustees of the University of Louisville established The Trustees Award in 1989 to honor faculty who individually impact the future of our students. The award is intended to recognize faculty who have had, currently or in the past, an extraordinary impact on students.
TBD - Will be Announced Soon
Cardinal Principles Champions
The Cardinal Principles Champions award is designed to honor our faculty and staff who have demonstrated one of the Cardinal Principles at the highest level of impact.
Lamar Braggs | Registrar's Office
From the nomination:
"Lamar exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated member of the Cardinal Family, consistently demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of students, faculty, and staff. In his role as a representative of the Registrar’s Office on the Council of Undergraduate Academic Advisors and Administrators, Lamar has played a vital role in the successful implementation of various student success initiatives. His collaborative spirit and problem-solving mindset have helped streamline processes and enhance support systems that directly impact student achievement. His ability to navigate complex academic policies while always prioritizing the needs of students is a testament to his deep sense of care and responsibility. Beyond his professional expertise, Lamar embodies the true essence of community. He is not only a trusted colleague but also a compassionate advocate for those around him. Whether he is assisting students in navigating academic challenges or lending a hand to colleagues, Lamar is always willing to step up and help. His kindness, approachability, and willingness to go the extra mile make him an invaluable member of the university. The Community of Care principle emphasizes that we are more than just a collection of individuals— we are a family. Lamar lives this principle every day through his dedication, generosity, and commitment to fostering an environment where everyone feels supported and valued. His efforts strengthen not only the Registrar’s Office and the advising community but also the broader university as a whole."
Sneha Thapa | College of Education and Human Development
From the nomination:
"In the past year, Dr. Thapa served in two roles within the Office of Academic Affairs and Unit Effectiveness (AAUE), first as Data Analyst. Then, in large part due to her excellence in accountability, she was selected as the top applicant for the position of Accreditation Manager and has been serving in that role since August 2024. Dr. Thapa keeps her promises. Not only has she been able to complete all aspects in her new role as Accreditation Manager, but she has also continued to oversee much of the work she was doing as data analyst. This has required her to strategically and efficiently manage a large workload. Dr. Sneha Thapa has established a strong rapport with our AAUE employees, program leadership across the college, and learned the systems we have in place in order to oversee them and make them better. She holds herself accountable and as a result we have a much stronger accountability system, more efficient processes in place, and stronger support for faculty engaging in curriculum and/or accreditation efforts."
VaSean Baker | Physical Plant
From the nomination:
"Vasean brings the highest level of intentionality and care to his work – he understands that very small gestures he makes while taking care of the building means he is also taking care of people, and his actions make a huge difference in the lives of students, staff, and faculty. He carries himself, his job duties, and his interactions with students and staff with so much care and importance. VaSean is an integral member of the Student Success Center and the Belknap Academic Building as a whole. Vasean has become an integral part of the Student Success Center team as he has gotten to know each of us and how to support each of us in our work. He is quick to step up during events to help keep us organized and take care of the waste we create in order to continue to provide a well-maintained environment for our students and visitors. He is conscientious of students being in a learning environment and works to make sure their spaces are well cared for and ready for them throughout the day. He balances taking care of the space with the fact that the students come first as he works around their traffic patterns and schedules. In addition to knowing the staff around him, VaSean is aware of the students who come through the building keep us abreast of what is going on in the building. VaSean warmly greets those he encounters and offers assistance as needed no matter the position of the person. VaSean is a pleasure to work with. He cares about each of us, the students we all serve, and the building we work in. His dedication contributes to UofL’s student success each and every day. UofL is fortunate to have him as part of the Cardinal community.”
Melanie Gast | Sociology
From the nomination:
"Gast is the consummate example of a well-rounded colleague. During her tenure as a faculty member at the University of Louisville, she has lent her voice to worthwhile causes, demonstrated a desire to push for change, deftly engage complicated subject matters, and work with students, faculty, staff and community partners of various backgrounds. Her leadership in advocating for the campus community and working to improve our university across the board have proven crucial in these trying times. Since joining the UofL faculty in Fall 2016, Gast has demonstrated herself as a strong performer in the fields of research, teaching, and service. As a researcher, she’s published twenty-one peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. Her research explores how race and immigration factor into and shape experiences within American education systems. This interrogates an array of experiences, and regularly examines the issues concerning Black, Asian, and Latino/Latinx populations in the United States. As an educator, she is innovative, well-liked, and respected by her peers and her students. Like her research interests, Gast’s courses engage a variety of communities, identities, backgrounds, and experiences within the field of sociology as her teaching areas include race, ethnicity, class, gender, immigration, racism, and inequalities in addition to community engagement and qualitative methods. She has distinguished herself as a courageous leader on our campus who is committed to making the University of Louisville a better place to learn, teach, and work. Professor Gast is worthy of recognition."
Dylan Naeger | Office of Undergraduate Admissions
From the nomination:
"Dr. Naeger values his team as human beings, encourages and promotes a work-life balance, and offers flexibility when needed. He has a great rapport with those in our office, often laughing alongside his team and chatting about sports, families, or whatever the topic of discussion may be that day. Dr. Naeger demonstrates regularly that he is a person of high integrity and that he values transparency in all of his interactions, whether with students, faculty, or staff. Colleagues seek him out for his thoughts and opinions, knowing they will get a truthful and thoughtful response. He has earned the admiration of so many in our college and university, simply by being his authentic self and treating others with dignity and respect. Beyond simply sharing information, Dr. Naeger takes great care to listen and engage with all stakeholders involved in decision-making processes. This active and inclusive approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, ultimately resulting in more informed and balanced outcomes that align with our university’s mission. His leadership in this regard not only reflects a strong commitment to integrity but also demonstrates a profound respect for the values that underpin our community’s success. He has worked tirelessly to create a culture of honesty where individuals can express their thoughts without fear of judgment or retribution. In his leadership, respect is not just a value he upholds—it is a practice that is interwoven into his daily actions. He leads with an unwavering sense of fairness, always striving to do the right thing, even when it is difficult."
Bobby Cortes | Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Program
From the nomination:
"Bobby Cortes serves as the Admissions and Recruitment Coordinator for the Kent School of Social Work and Family Science’s BSW program. In this role, Bobby leads the program’s outreach and prospective student engagement efforts. The tasks associated with this role include, but are not limited to staffing local, state, regional and national recruitment events, providing guidance to students considering applying to the BSW lower and upper divisions, and serving as a liaison between prospective students and the BSW staff and faculty. Not only is Bobby employed by the Kent School BSW program, but he is also an alum of the Kent School BSW program. The work is highly personal for him because he is recruiting students into a program that assists in his professional development. In this way, Bobby’s lived experience is a testament to what is possible for students graduating from the BSW program. Given that he is often prospective students’ first point of contact, his passion, enthusiasm and charisma make him an ideal ambassador and representative for the University of Louisville. Bobby is a social worker by trade which means that he is bound by a Code of Ethics that promotes empowerment, inclusivity and self-determination. In other words, Bobby strives to leverage his professional platform to increase access to post-secondary education on behalf of many historically excluded populations. This commitment is consistent with the Cardinal Principles Noble Purpose which is exemplified by those who identify the way in which they make a difference by solving the problems of access and affordability to give everyone the opportunity to find and pursue their own noble purpose. Bobby is always willing to help even when it is out of his realm of expertise, and always gladly goes the extra mile."
Chris Sogard | Student Success Center
From the nomination:
"Chris has been a member of the Student Success Center team for nearly six years as our Department Coordinator. Over the years, he has become the face of the Belknap Academic Building. He manages the student staff at the Student Success Center front desk on the first floor of the BAB, which is where anyone and everyone ends up going to ask for assistance, to report an issue, or if there’s an emergency. Chris is constantly adjusting to the needs of each situation and serves with the highest level of professionalism. When campus is dealing with an emergency or we need a skeleton crew, he’s always first to volunteer. Chris has been instrumental in helping the Student Success Center survive. He is the calm in the storm, the positive encouragement, the smiling and supportive colleague – the glue that keeps us moving together through years of uncertainty. Our team asks him to help in so many different ways, and he rises to the occasion each time. The work Chris does every day has an impact on myriad students, staff, and faculty, and he does it with precise care and has a profound impact on our community."
Linda Fuselier | Biology
From the nomination:
"Dr. Fuselier is the chairperson of Biology, one of the biggest departments on campus. She came to UofL in 2014 or so as a tenure-track teaching faculty member due to her experience in teaching pedagogy and she was hired to run our biggest course, BIOL 104, which has nearly 1000 students enrolled a semester. She revitalized that course, making it more relevant to students' lives by changing the topics covered and how the course was taught with much more active learning. She spent some time in the A&S Dean’s office as the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Affairs before stepping up to be the Chair of Biology. She has worked tirelessly to support the faculty members, staff, and students in the department (both majors and nonmajors). Her efforts include improvements in all three categories of teaching, service, and professional activities, as well as strictly administrative improvements."
Distinguished Faculty Awards
Every year, the University honors faculty who bring distinction to the university through their commitment to the areas of service, teaching, and outstanding scholarship, research, and creative activity.
Outstanding Scholarship, Research and Creative Activity
From the nomination:
"Dr. Huang became a gratis faculty member in 2008 and rose through the ranks to become a gratis professor, where he then joined the School of Medicine as full‐time faculty in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine in 2019, achieving tenure in 2021. He quickly rose through the ranks and is currently a tenured professor in his department as well as the Vice Chair. Additionally, he holds associate appointments in both the Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery and the Department of Medicine and serves as Deputy Director of the Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute. Incredibly, in the past five years alone, Dr. Huang’s high level of productivity, collaborative spirit, and desire to positively affect patient outcomes has collectively helped bring over $38M across multiple grants and contracts as Principal Investigator, Co‐Investigator, Deputy Program Director, or Sub‐Investigator. His diverse research career ranges from studying neutrophil involvement in COVID acute respiratory syndrome, to development and testing of mechanical circulatory support devices for the treatment of end‐stage heart failure, to using artificial intelligence to study acute kidney injury, to pioneering the Louisville Clinical and Translational Research Center. Jiapeng is an exemplary leader as demonstrated in his many volunteer service roles and leadership positions within the University, the State of Kentucky, and both national and international organizations. He is serving a critical role of Deputy Director of the Louisville Clinical and Translational Research Center (LCTRC), a recently awarded, prestigious and highly competitive NIH P20 grant ($11.7M) to develop and organize the clinical translational research center. The impact of Dr. Jiapeng Huang’s research activity has been multifold, including filling knowledge gaps, developing and advancing novel technologies into clinical practice, and training up the next generation of researchers and academic scholars “both here and beyond."
From the nomination:
"Kevin serves tirelessly within the Theatre Arts Department, contributing in a variety of essential roles. He has served as Chair of the Department, Chair of the Theatre Arts Personnel Committee, and Director of Undergraduate Studies (our largest program)—the latter two, he performed simultaneously. As our resident scenic and lighting designer for all four mainstage shows each year, Kevin is responsible for designing the set or lighting (and sometimes both) for each production. His work begins with intense research into the time, place, and culture of the production, ensuring that each design is rooted in a deep understanding of its context. In addition to his design work at UofL, Kevin teaches a full course load and consistently goes above and beyond by supervising independent studies nearly every semester. He manages all of this while maintaining a strong professional career and a national presence in the field. Currently, Kevin serves as a National Commissioner for Digital Media for the United States Institute of Theatre Technology (USITT), the premiere organization in the country for theatre design and technology. USITT promotes dialogue, research, and learning among theatre practitioners, and Kevin’s role as a commissioner for the cutting-edge area of Digital Media speaks to the significance of his expertise. His curriculum vitae attests to the fact that he continues to somehow find time to design professionally in theaters throughout the Midwest. The beauty of Kevin’s work—both in set and lighting design—and the care and time he invests in mentoring young designers, along with the impressive success of his former students, make him an exemplary candidate for this prestigious award."
From the nomination:
"Dr. Klein's remarkable contributions impact not only our academic community, but the healthcare of individuals greatly impacted by kidney disease, as well. Dr. Klein graduated with honors and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of Texas, in Austin, Texas. Jon joined the faculty in 1985 as an Assistant Professor of Medicine and in less than a year was the Director of the University of Louisville Renal Transplant Laboratory. From the time he joined our faculty, his career has been on a consistently rising trajectory that reached a pinnacle very recently as Dr. Jon Klein was named Executive Vice President for Research and Innovation for the University. The founding Director of our Core Proteomics Laboratory and Clinical Proteomics Program, his lab established that proteomic techniques could identify differential protein expression in different anatomical sites in the normal kidney, in disease models of the kidney, and in urine. Jon’s exemplary career is obvious in professional and sustained excellence as well as representing the highest standards of academic achievement. Further solidifying Dr. Jon Klein’s influence on his department, the School of Medicine, the University, and the academic community at large, Jon has supervised and mentored a myriad of medical students and trainees, as well as having guided numerous junior faculty to successful careers for more than 30 years now. Additionally, beyond his individual accomplishments, he is preparing tomorrow’s scientific genius to continue our legacy as an institutional research power‐house, demonstrating the University of Louisville’s promise of “Here and Beyond.”
From the nomination:
"Dr. Shuck joined the Department of Educational Leadership, Evaluation, and Organizational Development (LEAD) in 2010, and in the span of his 14-year career, his work in the area of human resource development has been profound and had lasting impact on his discipline in the social sciences. Within his field, Dr. Shuck is the sixth most cited scholar on Google Scholar. Dr. Shuck is a well-recognized and global thought leader in the field of Human Resource Development (HRD). He is widely acknowledged as one of the foremost experts on employee engagement, with his research being applied across industries and sectors worldwide. In his nationally and internationally recognized 2010 work on Employee Engagement and HRD: A Seminal Review of the Foundations, he and Dr. Wollard defined the construct of employee engagement, and they did not stop there, subsequently developing and copyrighting The Employee Engagement Scale which is now widely used and cited across numerous studies as a primary tool for measuring engagement across diverse contexts (Shuck & Wollard, 2010). Dr. Shuck’s field-shaping innovation is not limited to his scholarship; he also has co-founded two successful companies—LEAD Research and OrgVitals. He currently serves as the Chief Data Scientist for OrgVitals (with all affiliations disclosed through UofL). Dr. Shuck is a field shaping, nationally and internationally sought-after social scientist and public scholar whose work spans disciplines and employs mixed-methods approaches to address real world problems related to employee engagement, burnout, health, and compassionate leadership. His research, as highlighted in this letter and his dossier, has made groundbreaking contributions to improving the lives of people around the world—not just by helping them go to work every day, but by enabling them to live better lives through their work. While his social science research is global, its impact is local, community-engaged, and applied in everyday life."
From the nomination:
"Professor Sullivan’s work is an exemplary statement of how the three terms of the award, research, scholarship and creativity, are blended in truly outstanding humanistic scholarship. Not only is Professor Sullivan one of the most sophisticated translators from Spanish into English, but she is also one of the most innovative scholars of translation in the nation. Her translations have won highly competitive awards, and her scholarship is recognized internationally as field changing. It is virtually impossible for anyone who studies or teaches translation to be unfamiliar with Professor Sullivan’s role to change the field from within with a focus on ethics, social justice, and pedagogy. Her practice of translation as a community, for example, has paved the way for the decolonial turn in the field that has made collaborative translation one of the new important forms of translating. The importance of this change cannot be overstated. Instead of the common perception of translation as a neutral mode of cultural transfer, translation is being scrutinized today as the far-reaching hand of colonialism. Clare Sullivan carries her erudition lightly. She is one of the most sophisticated scholars yet is always reading and admiring her colleagues. She is a superb and most generous reader of her peers’ and her students’ work, and a true star among our College faculty."
Distinguished Service
From the nomination:
"Dr. Nasraoui was selected primarily due to her able and continuing dedication to the university wide ATHENA project. She developed strategies for recruitment and retention of faculty and implemented training and mentoring for faculty search committees. She continues her efforts in the form of STRIDE training which works to help search committees address their biases to deliver the most equitable searches possible. Dr. Nasraoui continues the work of ATHENA by creating new mentoring circles, film screenings, and a keynote series. All these efforts are beyond the scope of the initial project, but it has turned out to provide a tremendous level of service to the U of L community. Dr. Nasraoui is a professor and the founding director of the Knowledge Discovery & Web Mining Lab in the University of Louisville’s department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science."
"Dr. Owen’s service to the community is only matched by his service to the University. Much of this service takes a similar form: he is the go-to person for historical information about the campus. He is sought to give talks to new employees, including upper-level administration, providing them with context for our campus and larger community. His knowledge of the University and its development, paired with his experience with local government, has made him a valuable advisor and committee member. Dr. Owen has impacted the University by connecting newcomers to the campus and helping us all better understand the place where we work, study, and make new discoveries. He fact checks stories we share in the media, maintaining our integrity for the community. He advises us so we make thoughtful decisions about the future of our campus and our programs by contemplating our past. The University is a better place as a result of his work. He has had an impact on thousands of people from all walks of life, connecting them to our community and University on a deeper level. His service is unique, far-reaching, and impactful. His sustained contributions fully deserve recognition with a Career of Service award."
From the nomination:
"Dr. Peters epitomizes an engaged scholar, transcending the courses she teaches, the students she serves, and the research she advances. She has been described as “a rare individual whose commitment to service ensures the community profits from her expertise in a substantial way.” Dr. Peters’ record demonstrates exemplary service to the field of mathematics teacher education and statistics education. Demonstrated through her more than 15 years of service to the leading international research journal, she believes that service in this capacity is not simply about accepting or rejecting articles but also about supporting and mentoring budding researchers and authors through constructive feedback. With a focus on growing her field and building capacity in others, her service to the profession is generative. In fact, her dedication, commitment, and contributions to professional service have been rewarded through increasing leadership roles as she currently serves as Chief Editor for the flagship Statistics Education Research Journal (SERJ), where she has been a reviewer since 2009. Moreover, she was appointed as Chair of the American Statistical Association (ASA)/National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) joint committee, providing leadership and insights as the committee advocated for high quality statistical and mathematical proficiencies among teachers and teacher educators and promoted policies to further enhance connections between statistics and mathematics in K-12 education. Currently, Dr. Peters is serving on a steering committee with ASA; her knowledge and expertise will contribute to the second edition of the Statistical Education of Teachers report. Described as a “model of professionalism and engagement,” Dr. Peters’ professional service is well-regarded throughout her field."
From the nomination:
"Dr. Lindsay Della’s service to the community, region and Commonwealth with The Asclepius Initiative, Inc. (TAI) makes her a deserving recipient of this award. A nascent nonprofit, TAI’s mission is to “improve the health and economic stability of Kentuckians through educating, inspiring, and mobilizing people to advocate for a universally accessible, affordable, equitable, and high-quality healthcare delivery system.” In her volunteer role with TAI over the last 2 years, Dr. Della has made significant contributions to the impact of the organization in Kentucky. Dr. Della has volunteered her grant writing skills to help TAI secure over $1.5 million in grant funding in the last year and a half in service to residents across the Commonwealth. To date, the Asclepius Initiative’s health insurance literacy program, funded through KDPH, has reached over 16,000 Kentuckians with plain-language materials in four different languages. Clearly, Dr. Della’s service to the State of Kentucky with the Asclepius Initiative is deserving of this award."
From the nomination:
"Dr. Williams’s visionary leadership in global health, his unwavering commitment to advancing pediatric care internationally, and his transformative contributions to medical education make him a truly exceptional candidate for this distinguished honor. Jackson joined the School of Medicine faculty in early 2019 as an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Global Health and holds the Humana Endowed Chair in International Pediatrics. He assumed leadership of the division in 2023 during a period of transition, revitalizing its programs and forging impactful international partnerships. His dedication has reinvigorated the resident global health track, reestablished our University’s collaboration with the Tamale Teaching Hospital in Ghana, and expanded opportunities for faculty and learners alike. Under his leadership, the global health track has grown to become one of the most sought‐after programs, with double‐digit participation from residents and fellows. His inclusive and collaborative leadership has transformed the division into a thriving academic community, engaging more than ten faculty members in delivering education and care to immigrant, refugee, and underserved populations both locally and abroad. Dr. Williams’s leadership and service have not only elevated our university’s global health mission but have also had a profound and lasting impact on communities worldwide. His ability to bridge medical education, clinical care, and academic research has strengthened healthcare infrastructure in underserved regions, empowered international faculty, and enriched the training of our own students and residents. His work embodies the very essence of this prestigious award—extraordinary service that transcends borders and transforms lives “here and beyond.”"
Distinguished Teaching Professor
From the nomination:
"Dr. Gesler has demonstrated exceptional teaching excellence during her tenure at the University of Louisville School of Nursing (ULSON), consistently showing innovation, dedication, and remarkable effectiveness in preparing the next generation of nursing professionals. Dr. Gesler's teaching philosophy emphasizes student-centered learning, inclusivity, and innovative teaching strategies—principles she has successfully implemented throughout her courses. Her commitment to these ideals is evident in both her classroom practices and the outstanding outcomes she achieves with her students. Dr. Gesler's ability to inspire students is reflected in the enthusiastic feedback she receives. Student evaluations consistently praise her dedication to their success, with one student noting, she "cared for my future more than any other professor or faculty I've encountered during my time at UofL." This testimonial demonstrates her exceptional ability to connect with students and motivate them to achieve their highest potential. Dr. Gesler has shown remarkable innovation in developing and implementing new teaching methodologies. She created an Evidence-based Poster Session for pediatric nursing students, which has become a bi-annual event engaging over 207 students to date. This initiative not only promotes deep learning of current evidence-based practice but also develops students' professional presentation skills and connects them with community partners. Dr. Gesler's teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of preparing "not only skilled clinicians but also compassionate advocates for their patients and communities." Her work exemplifies this mission through her innovative teaching methods, dedication to student success, and commitment to developing well-rounded healthcare professionals."
From the nomination:
"Dr. Pigg joined the UofL Biology faculty in 2019 as a teaching-focused, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Biology and has consistently proven to be an excellent teacher. Her teaching excellence is evidenced by superb evaluations, five teaching awards, and through her implementation of high-impact pedagogical practices in large enrollment courses and mentoring activities. Dr. Pigg has transformed our courses into examples of exceptional student engagement in highly structured classrooms designed to enhance student learning. She is a star mentor for undergraduate and graduate researchers, engages students outside of class in exciting activities and extends her teaching excellence to the broader community. Moreover, her scholarship overlaps with her classroom teaching and she participates in national mentoring programs for future professors. Dr. Pigg has established her teaching excellence in Biology and will continue to interrogate her teaching and create the highest quality learning and mentoring experiences for our students."
From the nomination:
"Professor Saleem has shown great breadth and variety in courses that he teaches. While at the University of Louisville, he has taught four different undergraduate courses and four different graduate courses. One of these graduate courses was brand new to the university and was developed and designed by Dr. Saleem. Students are highly inspired by Professor Saleem, saying, “he has a very balanced class that introduces the concepts in class and keeps the entire class involved in the learning process with in-class questions and labs. His homework is also very effective in putting the topics that are taught in class into use and reinforcing them,” and, “A lot of professors have lost sight of the students' interest, but Dr. Saleem makes it seem like students are number one. I really respect him for that.” Dr. Saleem’s exceptional teaching approach is not limited to the inside of the classroom. He has excelled in conducting engineering education research as evidenced by his 2024 National Science Foundation (NSF) funded project that brought into the university $200,000 in research grant. The title of this funded project is “Introducing a Mixed-Methods Approach to Engineering Students through Human-Centered Design.” His success in acquiring and conducting an NSF funded educational project has indeed transformed Dr. Saleem into an accomplished engineering education researcher whose influence in the realm of engineering education extends way beyond the classroom and broadly affects engineering education. His teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should be a transformative, empowering, and engaging experience."
From the nomination:
"Dr. Saner embodies the essence of an exceptional educator—one who not only imparts knowledge but also transforms learning experiences through her dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to student success. Her teaching philosophy, grounded in learner centered strategies and evidence-based educational principles, has left an indelible mark on students, faculty, and the broader academic community at the University of Louisville. Dr. Saner is a relationship builder, a first-rate connector of people that would never have otherwise known or worked together. With a presence felt across the University, she has brought together dozens of folks into teams that might not have met or worked together. Dr. Saner routinely joins teachers across the campus for multi-disciplinary learning. She has overcome inertia to get MDs working with folks in the Delphi Center. To know Dr. Saner is to have access to the breadth of educational expertise present within the entire UofL System. Then you find yourself deftly coached onto an educational team with someone you would never have known but compliments your abilities, teaching within your expertise using skills you have mastered, but may not have known you had. Her work has drastically improved the quality of bedside teaching for anyone learning to care for the sick at the UofL."
From the nomination:
"Dr. Bledsoe’s dedication to teaching, informed by her distinguished career as a researcher, practitioner, grant writer, and project coordinator, has left a mark on her students, colleagues, and the broader academic and professional communities. Dr. Bledsoe’s teaching is rooted in her rich professional experience in the community. For example, Dr. Bledsoe has a long-standing commitment to interpersonal safety. She was a founding member of the Prevention, Education, and Advocacy on Campus and in the Community (PEACC) program at UofL, a member of the Metro Domestic Violence Prevention Coordinating Council, and a board member for The Clothesline Project, an organization engaged in advocacy and education related to violence against women. In her work with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, she provided therapeutic services to families, ensured child protection, and helped recruit one county’s first formal African American foster family. These services to vulnerable families in rural and urban settings, combined with her work on interpersonal violence, are foundational to her teaching and provide real-world insights and authenticity that resonate with students. In every aspect of her teaching, Dr. Bledsoe exemplifies the qualities the Kent School would celebrate for this award: excellence, community engagement, and commitment to student success."
Outstanding Performance Award Winners
The Outstanding Performance Awards recognize university staff (both exempt and nonexempt) who inspire others through their outstanding dedication and commitment to UofL.
Vanessa Blair | Registrar's Office
From the nomination:
"Vanessa’s unwavering commitment to serving students, faculty, and university colleagues is evident in her daily interactions. She not only upholds the highest standards of professionalism but also goes above and beyond to ensure that all individuals she assists receive the best possible support and guidance. Her ability to navigate the complex systems and processes within the Registrar’s office with efficiency and accuracy is a testament to her deep knowledge and expertise. Sustaining a high level of productivity while maintaining exceptional quality of work, Vanessa has become an invaluable asset to advising efforts across the university. She takes great initiative in identifying challenges and proactively devising effective solutions that benefit multiple stakeholders across campus. One of Vanessa’s most commendable qualities is her exceptional dependability. She fosters and maintains effective relationships with colleagues across departments, serving as a trusted partner and advocate for student success. She consistently takes on responsibilities beyond her defined role, offering innovative ideas and strategic improvements that enhance our operations. Her contributions have not only strengthened internal processes but have also reinforced the University of Louisville’s reputation through her professionalism, collaborative spirit, and commitment to the institution’s mission. Furthermore, Vanessa embodies the Cardinal Principles in all that she does. She leads with integrity, fosters a sense of community, champions accountability, and remains dedicated to continuous improvement. She is a true asset to the University of Louisville."
Luke Button | Human Resources
From the nomination:
"Luke Button’s exceptional dedication, expertise, and professionalism have made an immeasurable impact on our department. He has consistently worked alongside HR as a true partner, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to ensuring we have the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate complex HR processes. Luke is incredibly responsive, addressing concerns with both urgency and empathy. He understands that the challenges we bring to him are important to us, and he approaches each situation with a genuine willingness to help. His ability to provide clear, thorough guidance—whether on compensation studies, adjustments, leveling, or drafting JDFs— has paved the way for greater understanding and transparency in our work. Beyond his technical expertise, what truly sets Luke apart is his authenticity. He brings his whole self to the workplace, creating an environment where people feel comfortable asking questions, seeking advice, and engaging in meaningful conversations. His approachability and professionalism make him an invaluable resource, and we cannot stop singing his praises. His work has not only benefited the department but has also set a high standard for excellence in HR collaboration."
Asa Douangasa | Physical Plant
From the nomination:
"Asa Douangasa is a carpenter for the University of Louisville’s Physical Plant. His commitment to the University has never wavered in his numerous years on staff. He has a genuine sense of pride in all the work he provides for the University. Students, parents, faculty, and staff are always extremely pleased with the response time and workmanship that Asa provides. Asa is a true self motivator. He also has done an amazing job of bolstering employee morale even in the midst of numerous budget cuts. His leadership qualities are second to none, always staying motivated and eager to provide the best possible product to clients. He loves to take on difficult projects and new challenges and sets a great example for his team and others to follow. Asa is one of the University of Louisville's greatest assets. His knowledge and commitment to the university is invaluable, and his willingness to work and dedication to the University of Louisville is unmatched."
Courtney Gagel | Speed School Administration
From the nomination:
"Courtney Gagel has always displayed a high degree of integrity, responsibility, and ambition. She is organized, efficient and extremely competent. She has an excellent rapport with coworkers, faculty, staff, students and industry relations. Courtney joined the University of Louisville in 2001 as an Administrative Assistant at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center before moving to the Speed School of Engineering in 2007 as a Program Coordinator. Since then, she has moved into different positions within Speed School, while continuing to be dependable and productive. In her role at the Speed School, she finds herself wearing several administrative “hats”, from providing direct assistance to the Dean and Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs, initiating and overseeing Faculty Affairs actions, serving as an Office Coordinator and event coordinates activities, requisitions and transactions with staff, facility, and event vendors. Whatever comes her way, she performs with 100% commitment to the task.She is a dependable team player, always gracious and willing to go the extra mile – whatever is needed. Speed School and U of L are fortunate that she is a long-time, loyal member of our staff."
Anthony Hundley | Sociology, Poly Sci, Geog Envi Sci, Anthropology
From the nomination:
"Anthony Hundley is a university employee of thirty years who currently manages the ever-expanding technology needs of four A&S departments. Anthony’s roles and responsibilities have multiplied and expanded since he began his UoL career in 1995 when, with an IT degree, he was hired as a tech in the Strickler Hall A/V Department. In 2010, Sociology and Political Science hired him as their Computer Operations Advisor. In 2017, he was upgraded to Tech Support Assistant, to help fulfill the growing needs of Anthropology and Geographic & Environmental Sciences. In 2018 he received a new title from A&S with an upgrade to Tech Support II. After a 3-year long compensation study in 2024, his title was changed to Tech Specialist II. In sum, Anthony has looked after scores of faculty, staff, and countless students through a technological revolution. Anthony is an exceptional IT specialist whose dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to service have made an invaluable impact on my own Department of Geographic & Environmental Sciences. He consistently goes above and beyond his job description to ensure that faculty, staff, and students have the technology, tools, and support they need to excel in their work. He takes a proactive approach to IT management, ensuring that our systems remain updated and secure while responding immediately to any technical issues that arise. Not only does Anthony tend beautifully to four good-sized departments but he provides crucial support to two of the University’s most dynamic research centers. With his exceptional commitment and dedication to staff, faculty, and students he has had a profound and positive impact on our workplace and earned him our highest regard and deepest appreciation."
Jennifer Lee | Special Education, Early Childhood and Prevention Science
From the nomination:
"Jennifer Lee voluntarily went above and beyond the call of duty to assist multiple areas of the CEHD during a time of need. During 2024, Ms. Lee was serving as the Administrative Assistant for the Department of Special Education, Early Childhood, and Prevention Science. She was also tasked with assisting the CEHD Undergraduate Advising Office in answering student phone calls in an effort to help that office to be more proactive in responding to student inquiries. Due to the resignation of the CEHD Dean’s Executive Administrative Assistant during the summer of 2024, Ms. Lee was also asked to cover the duties of the Executive Administrative Assistant while a search for a new person could be conducted. Following the hiring of a new Executive Administrative Assistant, Ms. Lee then helped to train the new person. Also, she was effective in her work across multiple departments. To say she was likely the only person who could have handled this situation would be an understatement. Her ability to balance her primary responsibilities while mentoring and uplifting those around her is truly remarkable. Her leadership, professionalism, and generosity have made a significant impact on my growth and confidence in my role. She embodies the very essence of teamwork, excellence, and selflessness."
Geri Morgan | Dean of Students Office
From the nomination:
"With 22 years of dedicated service to the University of Louisville and 12 years as the Student Care Manager in the Dean of Students Office, Geri Morgan's unwavering passion for helping students and her commitment to their success have made her an invaluable asset to the UofL community. She fosters a culture of compassion and encouragement, ensuring that every individual feels valued and supported. Her genuine empathy and dedication have directly contributed to the retention of countless students who, without her compassion and assistance, may not have been able to continue their education at UofL. others. Her 22 years of committed service, 12 years of compassionate leadership as the Student Care Manager, and her unmatched dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment have left an indelible mark on the UofL community. As a Care Manager for students at the University of Louisville, Geri demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities by proactively educating campus constituents on how to recognize, respond to, and report students in need. Geri goes beyond standard practices by continuously assessing the needs of campus constituents, gathering feedback, and using these insights to enhance the efforts of the Dean of Students Office. Her commitment to ongoing improvement not only strengthens the university’s support network but also empowers the entire campus community to play an active role in student care. Geri’s forward-thinking leadership and dedication to collaboration make her an invaluable asset to the university."
Jessie Voigt | Disability Resource Center
From the nomination:
"Jessie is collaborative, has a dedication and willingness to learn, committed to student success, and advocates for students. Jessie is an exceptional colleague who demonstrates dependability, leadership, and consistent high quality in her work and in her relationships. We have heard partners across campus speak of Jessie's advocacy for and with students. Since September 2022, Jessie has been promoted from the position of Disability Resource Coordinator to the Associate Director of the Disability Resource Center. In this role, she oversees the Neurodivergence Specialist and oversees the development of new programming and training focused on cultivating UofL into a Neuro-Affirming campus. She provides supervision and coaching to five academic coaches each year influencing their commitment to the success of other students. Jessie's commitment to assisting and supporting individuals with disabilities is strong and evident in all she does. Jessie is consistently working to improve systems and processes to support those she serves; her servant leadership skills are apparent in all she does."
Dakota Walker | Center for Military Connected Students
From the nomination:
"As the Assistant Director, Dakota plays a vital leadership role for five employees, serving more than 2,400 military-connected students. He deputizes for the Director, when the Director is unavailable, engaging with campus leadership and with the community. He leads the team responsible for processing military Tuition Assistance (TA) and residency coding actions for more than 600 military students each term. He develops, implements, and maintains an active engagement process with internal UofL stakeholders (Bursar, Registrar, Student Financial Aid, Academic Advisors) to ensure they are aware of TA policy, processes, and procedures. He engages with installation Education Offices around the nation, when necessary for individual TA issues. He creates, oversees, and refines a strategy for military-connected student recruitment, developing relationships with Installation Education Centers through outreach, selectively attending installation education fairs. He oversees the Center’s website and social media channels, which collectively generate more than 1,000 impressions each month. Dakota’s leadership has been instrumental to the Center’s five-member staff, serving more than 2,400 military-connected students, and to the institution earning Military Friendly® Gold Designation and Spouse Friendly for 2024-2025, as well as Military Times “Best for Vets” 2024, the only institution in the ACC to do so. He refined key functions related to military Tuition Assistance (TA) processing and military tuition residency coding. Dakota consistently goes above and beyond to serve military-connected students and has leadership capabilities in spades. We are fortunate to have Dakota on the team. He is an exceptional asset to the Center, and the university."
Hao Zhang | SOM Faculty Affairs and Advancement
From the nomination:
"Hao consistently demonstrates a high-level of competency in her position within the ULSOM Office of Faculty Affairs & Advancement. Hao has shown great initiative in the performance of the functions of her Office in the creation of web-based systems for the delivery, approval and submission of essential faculty documents. She displays exceptional dependability in her role through her availability to thoroughly and thoughtfully answer complex and critical questions on these systems in a timely fashion. Finally, Hao builds effective relationships with others outside of her Office in being approachable and kind such that Department-level staff feel comfortable asking complex and critical questions. In every aspect of her work, Hao consistently exceeds expectations, earning the trust and respect of her colleagues both within and outside the university. The profound and lasting impact of her contributions makes her an ideal candidate for this award. Hao embodies the qualities of performance excellence: productivity, leadership, initiative, and collaboration. Her work has elevated our office and significantly contributed to the university’s mission."
Outstanding Supervisor Award Winner
Great supervisors create a culture of engagement that includes supporting the development of team members and sending a strong, consistent message of respect, compassion, and trustworthiness.
Greg Vittitow | Student Success Center
From the nomination:
“Greg is a supervisor who understands that prioritizing his staff means prioritizing the students the Student Success Center serves. Greg's leadership is quiet, sincere and remarkably effective. He oversees a team of six Student Success Coordinators who have different backgrounds, perspectives, and opinions on the best way to navigate our complex and challenging work, but he has never failed to shepherd consensus among the team so we can move forward with our work together. Additionally, Greg is always able to look at things from the perspective of a student, a campus partner, or upper administration, and do so without alienating his staff's perspective. While Greg also is a practicing Student Success Coordinator, he is responsible for overseeing the distribution of the Persistence Grant and, in the past, the HEERF funding Uofl received during Covid. This means Greg is in constant communication with multiple levels of supervisors and campus partners, as well as his Coordinator team, to make sure the university is maximizing the return on investment of these financial supports to students at Uofl. Greg is constantly streamlining processes, advocating for what is possible, and fine-tuning best practices for our team, and this all makes our day-to-day work significantly easier. Greg is dependably transparent and is always open to constructive feedback from his team. What stands out the most is his consistency- the same compassion, patience, understanding, and transparency he has for students is how he leads our team. Greg is a shining example of the Cardinal Principles and makes UofL and the SSC a great place to work. It is evident that Greg cares about everyone he works with, and he helps support each of us individually to grow and learn both professionally and personally.”
Team Impact Award Winners
Behind every great accomplishment at the University of Louisville is a team of dedicated employees who worked collaboratively to realize their vision. This exceptional team has had a great impact on the university. As the saying goes, teamwork makes the dream work.
Team members: Greg Schetler: Superintendent for Grounds; Foreman: Eric Tennill, Wade Fleming; Grounds Mechanic: Jacob Chamberlain; Gardener: Brian Tennill; Groundskeeper: Arthur McKenzie, Cary Ferguson, Glen Hayes, Joseph Kaegin, Michael (Cory) Paul, Patrick Jones, Quintin Kruse, Ruben Clinkenbeard, Shane Blocker, Brian Nevitt, Chrisopher Karrer, Joshua Lewis, Lou Conley, Nick Boysel, Paul Ashmore, Ted Brodzik; Grounds Laborer: Michael Gadd
From the nomination:
"University of Louisville’s Physical Plant Grounds Crew’s proactive and innovative approach to landscape management has led to significant cost and time savings. By implementing creative and sustainable practices and streamlined operations, they have reduced expenses and enhanced campus aesthetics. Their commitment to safety is evident through consistently high safety records and adherence to best practices. The team always goes above and beyond, creating a beautiful campus with grounds that have received various external recognition. Their work impacts the first impressions of prospective students, enhances the on-campus experience of faculty, staff, and students, and provides a safe environment for all. The team exemplifies the Cardinal Principles by fostering inclusiveness, teamwork, and service-oriented values."
Distinguished Retiree Excellence Award
This award pays tribute to retired UofL faculty and staff from throughout the UofL community who have demonstrated dedication to scholarship or community service that has had an exceptional impact on the university.
From the nomination:
"Dr. Stanley S. Levinson has devoted forty-six years of his life to representing and cheerleading for the University of Louisville. After his retirement, he continues to publish impactful scientific articles and to mentor his daughters, Dr. Cheri Levinson and Professor Ariana Levinson, who follow him in devoting their lives’ work to the University and students. Dr. Levinson was recently recognized as one of the world’s most-cited scholars. He immediately gave credit to the team and University rather than himself. Dr. Levinson retired from the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine in October of 2014. In the decade since, the primary way Dr. Levinson continues to make an impact is through his scholarship. Even in retirement, Dr. Levinson remains deeply engaged in advancing scientific knowledge through his dedicated service on editorial boards and as a reviewer for numerous esteemed journals. Through this extensive and continuous engagement, Dr. Levinson has played an instrumental role in maintaining the highest standards of scientific integrity and innovation in clinical research. Finally, he is a wonderful role model and source of encouragement when we face professional challenges. He encourages and inspires us to keep working and be part of the solution and a point of pride for our students, the University, and our community."
Presidential Commission Awards
Commission on the Status of Women (COSW)
The Commission on the Status of Women recognizes the following winners for 2025.
Mallory Newby | Employee Success Center
Michelle Rodems | Graduate School
Fannie M. Cox | Libraries
Amanda James | Alumni Engagement
Lisa Gunterman | Institutional Equity
Sarah Frankel | General Counsel
Commission on Diversity and Racial Equity (CODRE)
The CODRE recognizes the following winners for 2025.
