Lexington, KY (September 27, 2024) – On September 26, 2024, the University of Kentucky College of Social Work held its highly anticipated Annual Recognition Event, honoring the outstanding achievements and contributions of faculty, staff, and students. The evening was filled with celebration, recognition, and appreciation for those who exemplify the College’s commitment to social change, social justice, and social work.
The night began with recognizing employee milestones, a celebration of longevity and dedication. This year, several staff members were acknowledged for their years of service:
- 5 Years: Katherine Coates, Robert Gorstein, Sheila Barnhart, Erin Mayhorn, Karen Lawrence, Sheila Miracle
- 10 Years: Jay Miller, Stephanie Ratliff, Natalie Pope, Jessica Williamson, Melissa Whitaker
- 15 Years: Sarabeth Biermann, Diane Loeffler, Christopher Flaherty, Julie Cerel
- 25 Years: Melanie Otis, Ray Dowd
The College’s prestigious People First, People Always Awards were presented to individuals who embody the College’s values through their daily work and impact on the community:
- Culture of Wellbeing Award: Meagan Lederman
“I am deeply honored to receive the Culture of Wellbeing Award. This recognition holds special meaning for me as it reflects our collective commitment to fostering a positive and supportive environment.”
- Culture of Research Award: Rebecca Bosetti
“Thank you to my incredible colleagues for nominating me and for creating an environment where I can collaborate, be supported, and valued, and produce impactful research to help make a difference in the lives of kids!”
- Outstanding Teacher Award: Natalie Pope
“I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow alongside my students.”
- Part-Time Instructor (PTI) of the Year Award: Kara Gore
“I am grateful for the opportunity to invest in the future of social work as a part-time instructor for UK’s College of Social Work. Thank you!”
- Steadfast Service Award: Angela Jamison
“Every child deserves to know they are chosen no matter what, and it is my greatest joy to support children and families in this truth.”
- Outstanding Staff Award: Anna Chalfant
“Thank you to the Strategic Operations team – Seth Bailey, Rhyan Banas, Rachel Jewell, Tara Pulaski and Meagan Lederman – who I am honored to work alongside to help the College move Forward Together.”
- Supervisor of the Year Award: Stephanie Ratliff
“The things you are passionate about are not random; they are your calling.”
The Dean’s Student Advisory Council for the 2023-2024 academic year was also recognized for their invaluable contributions to the College:
- Ryley Butler Modaff, Ally Curtis, Jackson Dunleap, Brianna Holliday, Mark LeRoy, Rujeko Machinga-Asaolu, and Tricia Minnick.
The Social Work Alumni Association (SWAA) Awards were presented to the following outstanding individuals and organizations:
- Outstanding Field Instructor Award: Carissa Sietsema
“Failure isn’t an option because every time you don’t succeed at something, you have the opportunity to learn something.”
- Outstanding Field Agency Award: The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Endeavors
- SWAA Mentor of the Year Award: LaKeith Sutton
“Freeing yourself was one thing; claiming ownership of that freed self was another.” – Toni Morrison
- Rising Star in Social Work Award: La’Shardae Scott
“Any win for me is a win for my community.”
- Alumni Excellence Award: Mahjabeen Rafiuddin
“Justice grows out of recognition of ourselves in each other — that my liberty depends on you being free too.” – Barack Obama
The SWAA Executive Advisory Council for the 2023-2024 academic year was also recognized for their invaluable contributions to the College:
- Xavier Chavez, Jennifer Hancock, Taha Kozak, Abigail Latimer, Devonia Love-Vaughn, Timothy Olsen, Shericka Smith, and Shawndaya Thrasher.
The College of Social Work is grateful to all those who attended and contributed to making this year’s event a success. Congratulations to all the award recipients for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to advancing social work and making a lasting impact on communities.
