The leaders who shaped 2025
As the University of Louisville School of Medicine reflects on a year of impact, it is the people behind the progress who shine the brightest. This November, the school honored individuals during its annual Dean’s Faculty and Staff Excellence Awards – celebrations recognizing the faculty and staff whose leadership, innovation and service shaped 2025.
Held on November 18 and 19, the two events brought together colleagues from across the campus to celebrate those who exemplify the mission of the School of Medicine. This year marked a record-breaking number of nominations, demonstrating the incredible collaboration and dedication across departments, programs and initiatives.
Jeffrey Bumpous, dean of the School of Medicine, opened with this powerful reflection: “So much of what we highlight each year – our groundbreaking research, innovative educational programs and the exceptional learners who inspire us – is only possible because of the people in this room. You are the ones who make our mission come to life every single day.”
CELEBRATING STAFF EXCELLENCE
The Dean’s Staff Excellence Awards recognized outstanding contributions across eight categories, from early-career achievement to lifetime service. More than 80 nominations were submitted by colleagues eager to recognize those who make a difference every day.
Among this year’s recipients were:
New Professional Award: Ashley Shelton, senior instructional designer for continuing education in theOffice of Professional and Educational Development
Performance Excellence Award in an Administrative Office: Anne Noe, manager for the research grants program in the School of Medicine Research Office
Performance Excellence Award in a Basic Science Department: Paula Franklin, unit specialist III in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
Performance Excellence Award in a Clinical Science Department: Margaret Beachy, business unit administrator in the Department of Emergency Medicine
Heart of the School Award: Emily Carr, curriculum development specialist in the Office of Professional and Educational Development
Commitment to Well-being and Belonging Award: Tony Simms, director of medical student affairs and student wellness in the Office of Medical Student Affairs
Cardinal Spirit Award: Celeste Carter, associate vice president of finance in the HSC Office of Finance and Administration
Dean’s Lifetime Achievement Award: Joy Jeffries, business unit administrator IV in theDepartment of Pediatrics
Each nominee received a commemorative keepsake in appreciation of their contributions, highlighting the school’s deep gratitude for moving its mission forward.
HONORING FACULTY LEADERSHIP
The following evening, the School of Medicine hosted the 2025 Dean’s Celebration of Faculty Excellence, highlighting the achievements of educators, researchers and mentors who embody the school’s values of innovation, collaboration and compassion. Awards recognized outstanding contributions in teaching, clinical care, research, mentorship and community engagement. This year’s ceremony recognized more than 60 faculty members – a powerful sign of scholarly achievement and growth.
“It’s our favorite time of the year in faculty affairs,” said Michelle Stevenson, vice dean of faculty affairs. “It’s an honor to recognize our talented faculty.”
Among this year’s honorees were those recognized for their distinction in leadership, research and teaching – faculty whose contributions continue to strengthen the foundation of academic medicine and inspire future generations of physicians and scientists.
Career Achievement in Research: Aruni Bhatnagar, professor in the Department of Medicine
Career Achievement in Distinguished Service: Gerard Rabalais, professor in the Department of Pediatrics and office of the dean
Career Achievement in Education: Jennifer Koch, professor in the Department of Medicine
Distinguished Retiree Excellence Award: Jane Thibault, retired professor in the Department of Family and Geriatric Medicine
Outstanding Research in Social Sciences: Tara Schapmire, associate professor in the Department of Medicine
Outstanding Educator: Cynthia Metz, professor in the Department of Physiology
Outstanding Education by Gratis Faculty: Vesna Kriss, clinical professor gratis in the Departments of Pediatrics and Radiology
Outstanding Research in Basic and Applied Sciences: Greg Barnes, professor in the Department of Pediatrics
Distinguished Service to the Community, the Commonwealth and Region: Brian Harbrecht, professor in the Department of Surgery
Service to the National/International Community: MirzadaKurbasic, professor in the Department of Pediatrics
Distinguished Service to the Profession: Kupper Wintergerst, professor in the Department of Pediatrics
Distinguished Service to the University of Louisville: Gretel Monreal, associate professor in the Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
The evening also celebrated the promotions, tenure appointments and newly endowed chairs. Promotions spanned the full academic spectrum, from assistant professors advancing to associate professor to seasoned scholars elevated to full professor. Several faculty earned tenure and seven were honored with newly endowed chair appointments, reflecting national recognition of their contributions in fields ranging from cancer immunology to neurological rehabilitation.
These faculty leaders represent the School of Medicine’s commitment to advancing discovery, education and compassionate care – qualities that continue to define our institution as a leader in academic medicine.
As the year comes to a close, these awardees and nominees embody the impact that results when dedication meets purpose. Their leadership not only shapes the School of Medicine today but also inspires the next generation of physicians, scientists and health care advocates who will shape tomorrow.
View photos from the Staff Excellence Awards celebration.
View photos from the Celebration of Faculty Excellence.
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