The UW College of Health Sciences recently honored members of its faculty and staff
at its Outstanding Faculty and Staff Awards ceremony. Among the award winners are,
front row, from left: Sreejayan Nair, Sandra Leotti and Corri Sandoval; back row,
Boyi Dai, LeAnn Amen, Michelle Hilaire and David Jones. Not pictured: Lauren Biehle,
Ellie Jessup and Paula Kihn. (UW Photo)
The University of Wyoming’s College of Health Sciences held its first “hybrid” Outstanding
Faculty and Staff Awards ceremony April 14.
Honorees are chosen each year by the college’s Faculty Development Committee, which
looks at nominees’ contributions to teaching, research and administrative support,
including letters of recommendation from peers and students. Faculty and staff also
are recognized for excellence in professional development and helping students.
While last year’s gathering was virtual, this year’s event was in person, with a few
attendees choosing to attend online.
“We are here to celebrate the amazing accomplishments of our faculty and staff,” said
Jeremy Vandiver, a clinical associate professor of pharmacy practice with the UW School
of Pharmacy. “Despite many obstacles in the last couple of years, you have continued
to support research, teaching and helping our students reach their academic goals.”
David Jones, who is retiring as dean and a professor in the Division of Communication
Disorders, was honored with the Career Achievement Award.
While sharing highlights from Jones’ academic career, Derek Smith, director and associate
professor in the Division of Kinesiology and Health, said, “David has served many
roles at UW, including a number of interim administrative positions. Outstandingly,
he has been a servant leader and a continuous support to all members of the College
of Health Sciences, especially our students.”
Other award recipients are:
-- Innovation in Teaching Award: Paula Kihn, associate lecturer, Fay W. Whitney School
of Nursing.
-- Interprofessional/Interdisciplinary Award: Lauren Biehle, clinical associate professor
of pharmacy practice, School of Pharmacy.
-- Meritorious Service Award: Michelle Hilaire, clinical professor of pharmacy practice,
School of Pharmacy.
-- New Investigator Award: Sandra Leotti, assistant professor, Division of Social
Work.
-- Outstanding Contributions to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award: Corri Sandoval,
assistant clinical professor, Division of Communication Disorders.
-- Outstanding Researcher Award: Boyi Dai, associate professor, Division of Kinesiology
and Health.
-- Outstanding Staff Award (0-5 years): Ellie Jessup, office associate, Pre-Health
Advising Center.
-- Outstanding Staff Award (over 5 years): LeAnn Amen, credentials analyst, Fay W.
Whitney School of Nursing.
-- Outstanding Teacher Award: Sreejayan Nair, professor of pharmacology, School of
Pharmacy.
