myBama
Wellness and Work-Life

All the Kindness in 2024

Let’s not forget the outstanding individuals who were nominated as Kindness Champions in 2024. Thank you for making UA a kinder, more supportive community!

Short Time, Big Impact, Legendary Change - “Makenzie has been with the School of Social Work for just under a year. In that time, she has cultivated strong relationships with the long list of faculty and staff in our building. She is dependable, funny, and so hard working. Just seeing her in the hallway in something that will immediately brighten your day. I don’t know what we would do without her! ” -Anonymous, December 10, 2024
Heaven Sent - She is very passionate about her work, her dedication is a true blessing to all she encounters. Her kindness, love and support goes far beyond her daily duties. She is always there to give a kind word of support. Her kindness is a true example of leadership in the community. Thank you Dr. Casper for all you do
A Constant Supporter of Health and Wellness - “Angie is always ready to help organize health screenings and encourages her coworkers to take care of their health. Angie is so easy to work with, and her positive attitude and care for others have created more opportunities for her coworkers to focus on being healthier.” -Miranda McKee, December 2, 2024
Just the Best - “I have worked with Emma in the past but don't get to see her very often. Recently, I ran into Emma at an in-person gathering on campus where I didn't know many people. She said she was extremely busy with work and about to head out, but instead she stayed for a while just to catch up with me. I greatly appreciated this and think it's a great example of Emma's kindness!" -Sierra Morris, November 26, 2024
Always Ready to Help! - “I am incredibly fortunate to have Mark assigned to my office to help with any IT problems that impact our programming. When an issue arises, he is quick to respond and thorough in finding a solution to the problem. No matter how frequently I submit repair requests, Mark is always happy to help. He is thoughtful and kind and someone you can count on." -Anonymous, November 1, 2024
Truly a heart of gold! - “Amy shows kindness to everyone she encounters. As a co-worker, she is thoughtful and considerate of others. She never has a bad thing to say about anyone. Instead, she always finds the good in people. As a teacher, Amy delivers constructive feedback to students in a way that makes them feel encouraged and uplifted rather than criticized. I have learned so much from her about how to teach and guide students with compassion. She is the kind of professor and co-worker that you want to have!" -Anonymous, September 16, 2024
Always with a smile - “Wendy deals with issues of registration, curriculum, and credits all day long, but she is always helpful and has a smile on her face. She is patient and kind and willing to take time to fully explain matters to faculty, staff, and students. Even when things are stressful, she is calm and easily navigates difficult situations. Her smiles even come through her emails!" -Anonymous, September 16, 2024
Tamara’s Inclusive Spirit Spreads Positivity and Belonging at Rose - “With her warm smile and cheerful disposition, Tamara creates an atmosphere of inclusivity and belonging. She’s always helpful, often going out of her way to ensure the needs of both staff and visitors at Rose are met. Thank you, Tamara, for your consistent positivity and thoughtful nature." -Allison Curington, September 16, 2024
Moody School of Music Kindness Champion - “Kevin has been a wonderful colleague throughout my time here at the University of Alabama. In the three years that I have worked here, I have had the privilege to watch Kevin work with various students throughout the School of Music. He is compassionate and welcoming to everyone that he meets." -Melissa Life, September 16, 2024
Julie's Heartwarming Touch Creates a Welcoming Home at Rose - “Julie fosters an atmosphere of warmth and kindness. Her thoughtful approach ensures that everyone who enters Rose feels at home. She’s a breath of fresh air, and even on my rough days, I can always count on her to lift my spirits. I’m deeply grateful for the work she does every day to make Rose one of the most welcoming spaces on campus." -Allison Curington, September 16, 2024
Wendy Hoggle Early College Program Coordinator. Wendy Hoggle is the best - “I worked with Mrs. Hoggle over the summer and she is the kindest person on earth. She took care of the staff and treated us like we were her children and she will give us food and clothing. It extended to the students under our care and we all became one big family. Wendy taught us what it meant to care and love." -Emmanuel Amackson, September 9, 2024
Teresa Faulkner, Manager Learning and Development "Caring and Considerate 100% of Everyday at UA - “Teresa Faulkner is such an amazing human being, woman, colleague, and friend to all she encounters. She will stop what she is doing to help you, greet you, smile at you, welcome you, uplift your spirits, and extend to you her caring, considerate, and truly genuine friendship. Teresa exhibits above and beyond the characteristics a UA employee should possess! She exceeds in being the ultimate "Kindness Champion". -Anonymous, August 30, 2024
You have a Heart of Gold - “Dr. Lakin has gone beyond advisor to a mentor who provides support for the academic needs of her students and even helps in their personal life when possible. Dr. Lakin doesn't see her current students only just a student but as a potential colleague and provides all support to equip them in becoming just that. You are definitely a kindness champion! - Anonymous, August 21, 2024
A forceful leader and friend! - “I met Randi the summer after my freshman year when I was working as an Orientation Leader. We instantly clicked and from then on, she has been my personal cheerleader. She has pushed me as a student, as well as allowed me to grow in my professional and personal life. She has taught me what it truly means to be indebted to someone. She has always been reliable. I can come to her with good, bad, and even random news and she will always know the right advice or words to give. She has supported me through the ups and downs of college and I truly do not know if she knows all she has done for me. The summer I met Randi was not the easiest summer for me and she went above and beyond to allow for an uplifting environment each day we walked into the building. I often work with freshman students and I tell them, “you will find your Randi Hamm on this campus.” Everyone deserves a Randi in their academic journey and I am so glad to have had her in my corner these last 2 years. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me and for all of your students. Your love and support will be something I carry with me forever and I am truly indebted to you. - Olivia Smith, August 21, 2024
Volunteer’s Heart - “Kathy has a heart of gold and she is always willing to lend a hand. She is part of multiple service and volunteer organizations and is always happy to help a colleague in need.” - Jennifer Clark, August 21, 2024
The BEST! - “Katy has always been so kind and so willing to help in any way she can. She always has an open-door policy and is always there if you just need someone to talk to. She's just an all-around kind soul and deserves to be praised for it!” -Anonymous, August 14, 2024
All Around Example of Kindness - “I've worked with Tracy the entire time I have been at UA (almost 10 Years) and she has always been kind, no matter what is going on. She always wants to do the right thing and is literally just an all-around kind human!” -Anonymous, August 14, 2024
Above and Beyond - “Jennifer is one of the most dedicated, hardworking individuals I have had the pleasure of meeting here at UA. She goes above and beyond to assist her co-workers and is always eager to help in any way possible. No matter the task's size (or how many questions I ask), she has never made me feel like I have inconvenienced her. She is extremely knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor. Our departments interact often in assisting faculty/staff when issues arise; she often teaches me valuable skills that I need to do my job well and accurately. If anyone is deserving of being a kindness champion, it is Jennifer.” -Robyn Lavinsky, August 12, 2024
Sweetest Interpreter - “Sandy is an excellent medical assistant and is always busy in taking patients. However, she is always kind and will help any patient that speaks Spanish understand our forms and policies. Not only will she interpret for us, but she helps them fill out their forms also. She is always pleasant and kind and never rushes anyone.” -Anonymous, August 6, 2024
Turning Libraries into Wellness Space - “During his time in the Law Library, Kirk has worked hard to make sure students know that both the spaces and the people in the library are resources for promoting not just knowledge, but also wellness. In addition to creating mindfulness spaces within the library and posting about wellness on the Law Library's social media pages, he also holds fun, interactive games where students can look for small "treasures" (everything from toy ducks to gnomes) that they can trade in for prizes. Law School can be a stressful time, so having a champion who reminds students that they are allowed to focus on their own wellbeing is incredibly important. We're so glad he's part of our community!” -Grace Soyon Lee, August 2, 2024
Slays All Day-Anna Clay is an absolute powerhouse of joy and kindness. She is always ready to hop into any task to ensure her colleagues succeed and thrive. Not only does she handle coordinating her own programming, but she also frequently volunteers her time to assist others with their programming. Anna Clay is a bright ray of sunshine, and I am so thankful to have her as a colleague and friend."-Anonymous, July 26, 2024
Shay is an example to the office of what it means to be kind to others. She is the type of person who always checks in on those around her, and goes the extra mile to cheer up those who may need it. She even leaves little notes of affirmation that improve's the overall mood of our office. Her kindness is one of the reasons we have such a strong and connected team!
Above and beyond - Kerstin is the most dedicated, hardworking team member around! She strives for excellence everyday, and does so with a smile on her face and a positive attitude. From the moment she joined the Hear Here Alabama team, she has adapted, learned, and excelled in her position. Our office would not be the same without her, and I am so thankful to have the privilege to work alongside such an enthusiastic team member!- Anonymous, July 24, 2024
Every Day Needs Some Shay! Shay is a ray of sunshine for all of us who are blessed to know her. She is an honest & encouraging friend to all. Her kindness is seen in her job through the relationships that she builds with her internal & external clients. She is the first to celebrate others' accomplishments and to give love and support through a challenging situation. If you express negative emotions over personal or work failures, she will lovingly sass that attitude right out of you. She excels at brightening up the workday, and that is why I believe every day needs some Shay!-Anonymous, July 23, 2024
“I've never met Joi, but I am grateful for her kindness and willingness to help through email. I emailed her to inquire about upcoming fall advising for a course I will be taking. When she responded, I realized that I had emailed the wrong contact person in the incorrect department. Even though my course is not in her area of study, she asked me if I had found the help I needed and guided me in the right direction. It's easy to forward calls and emails along, but Joi took the time to help me, and that means a lot to me. Thanks to Joi for showing me help and kindness!” -Amber Lucas, July 18, 2024
A Crown Straightener - “Christina is a champion of kindness every day. She is a true crown straightener-- she is always paying attention to those around her and lifting them up and straightening their crowns. I have the honor of working with Christina, and despite all the busy-ness and chaos that sometimes finds us in the midst of a semester, she is always cheerful and patient with each and every student and staff member. She makes an impact on UA every day that she is here and lights up every room she walks in to with a smile and a spirit of genuine kindness."Anonymous, July 18, 2024
Caroline Cumbest, Coordinator, First Year Experience. Others always come first - “Caroline treats everyone with such kindness and respect. It doesn’t matter who they are or what they do she makes sure that they are heard and appreciated. She cares for others more than anything and is the most empathetic person I have ever met. She feels for her students and coworkers and it makes coming to work or meetings a delight because we know she will be smiling and making sure everyone is feeling good. If anyone is deserving of being a kindness champion it is Caroline.” -Anonymous, July 12, 2024
Paige Aker, Director of University Programs. Kindness Champion Year Round– “Paige is positive, funny, and encouraging! She is always willing to offer advice and answer questions. Whether its restaurant recommendations or work-related tips, I know whatever she suggests it will set me on the right path. Every time I see her, I know I am leaving that interaction laughing and/or with a smile!” -Victoria Phair, June 21, 2024
Sam Addy, Associate Dean for Economic Development Outreach and Senior Research Economist. Sam’s Club: Charity and Peaches – “Sam started a club that his friends can join. For every member, he donates $10 to charity every year. He has been doing this for many years, donating thousands of dollars each year. He also shares his delicious home-grown peaches with his colleagues every year.” -Boyi Zhuang, June 6, 2024
Jennifer McDonald, Assistant Director of Payroll, Human Resources. Kind and Warm – “Jennifer is always willing to help with any questions I have. She is a warm, friendly, and very knowledgeable. I am so glad that I can work with her!” -Bingqing Lu, June 6, 2024
Anna McJenkin, Executive Assistant, Student Life. Kindness should be her middle name! “Many occasions throughout the year Anna takes time to send little notes of appreciation to her co-workers. She will stop whatever she is doing anytime to help anyone — and she never makes them feel like they are interrupting her (although we are)! She can find the positive even in difficult situations and when appropriate, she finds humor to lighten the mood! Anna’s kindness shines daily. She is a joy to work with and a pleasure to be around. Anna also works on the Recognition and Appreciation Committee in Student Life to help acknowledge her co-workers! She truly exhibits the characteristics of a Kindness Champion!” -Lisa Kidd, June 4, 2024
Scott Myer, Driver, Campus Mail. Above and Beyond– “Scott always has an up-beat attitude and is always willing to lend a hand to those who are in need. He is always eager to help when things are slow or when there is more to process than we can handle, despite the fact that is not in his job description. His always positive attitude is something we should strive for and I hope we all can have a team member like Scott.” -Anonymous, June 4, 2024
Taylor Anderson, Chief Information Security Officer. Unique ability to be kind and calm even in the craziest of IT security matters! “Taylor is consistently helpful and a pleasure to work with. He goes above and beyond to prioritize the University’s best interests, even when navigating complex security challenges. Taylor never makes anyone feel inadequate for the situations they find themselves in. His genuine desire to assist and do what is right is evident, and he is committed to educating employees to prevent future mistakes.” -Anonymous, June 4, 2024
Jeremy Cole, Program Assistant/Fellowship Coordinator for UA Family Medicine Residency. Cool under pressure – “Jeremy is the epitome of “cool as a cucumber”. He has a very high-pressure position and one of his responsibilities is ordering lunches for large groups of people who can often be hard to please. Jeremy also deals with a large group of faculty physicians who have different personalities and needs and he takes care of each of them with ease. He maintains a smile and a positive attitude no matter how difficult the challenge that is placed before him. Jeremy is kind and compassionate to everyone he encounters and is more than deserving of being selected as a Kindness Champion.” -Anonymous, June 2, 2024
Anne McKinney, LPN – UMC Family Medicine Blue Suite.Compassionate and Caring– “I recently witnessed an interaction between Anne and a patient who was having a hard time understanding the instructions he had been given. She very kindly and compassionately explained everything to him more than once. The clinic was very busy at the time and I know she had other people (physicians and patients) waiting on her but she did not rush this gentleman at all and made sure that he clearly understood what he needed to do before she walked him to the exit door. This is just a one time example of the patience and kindness that she displays to all the patients she encounters. UMC Family Medicine is blessed to have a nurse like Anne McKinney.” -Anonymous, June 1, 2024
Candyce Reed, Administrative Assistant II – Center for Service and Leadership. Genuine– “Candyce’s genuine kindness and selfless dedication to others make her a truly deserving of recognition. Her actions not only make a difference in the lives of those she interacts with at work but also serve as an inspiration to others to cultivate kindness and compassion in their own lives. Whether it’s assisting a student with navigating administrative processes, providing guidance to a co-worker, or lending a listening ear to a student or colleague in need, Candyce goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported. I am truly thankful to know her.” -Tara Rose-Campbell, May 30, 2024
CJ Watson, University Recreation Maintenance Technician. The happiest person you will ever meet– “I am nominating CJ for Kindness Champion because he is the happiest person I have ever met. He works a strenuous job taking care of the UREC pools. It involves a lot of manual labor and sweaty shifts. Every time I run into him at work, I can tell he is just so full of joy getting to work for UREC. It doesn’t matter the type of day he is having at work, he still talks about the day with the biggest smile on his face. It is very nice having him on the UREC team. He brightens all our days.” -Anonymous, May, 30,2024
Allison Davis, Psychology Instructor. Positive, Smiling, Tenderhearted and Always There for Department- “Allison is a wonderful lady. The students whom she teaches appreciate her style and learn well. She has a heart of understanding and is gracious to everyone from the Dean to the Administrative staff. She happily picks up an extra class. She approves overrides for students who need to get into her lectures. Allison always has a moment to listen and give a word of encouragement or a sharp-witted comment to make one laugh. She is truly the Psychology Kindness Champion and I think a trophy is in order.” -Cindy Apperson, April 26, 2024
Robert Morris, Building Project Coordinator, NOAA/National Water Center. A Servant’s Heart- “Robert is one of the sincerest and kind people I have met. I had the opportunity to work with Robert while I was employed as a contractor for NOAA and the National Water Center. Robert, as a UA employee, helped the entire building by working with UA facilities to ensure that the National Water Center was functioning at full capacity. If there was a problem with anything, he was always willing to jump in and help – even when it may not have been his exact area of expertise. This past year has been a difficult one, as we lost a UA colleague, Mara Suter. Even though I knew Robert was deeply grieved for the loss of his friend and mentor, he never let that stop his positive attitude and willingness to help. Robert is truly a treasure, and UA is blessed to have him working on Campus. Thank you, Robert, for being my friend during my time at the NWC! It was an honor and privilege to work with you, and an even greater joy to call you friend. Blessings to you and thank you for everything you have done for me!” -Your friend, Amber Lucas, April 25, 2024
Sheri Laycock, HR Business Specialist. Sheri is such a joy- “Sheri is such a joy to have in our office! She is always smiling, humming songs, and radiates happiness and positivity every day. She is always willing to lend a helping hand to whomever is in need. She is the true definition of a Kindness Champion!” -Anonymous, April 6, 2024
Brittany Wilemon, SCO for Office of Veteran and Military Affairs. Brittany always involves everyone in the office in decorating for special occasions. The decorations bring us all together in community! Our Veteran community is enriched by her knowledge of VA benefits.” -Anonymous, April 5, 2024
Shandra Monterastelli, Attorney at ADAP, School of Law. Kindness that Radiates to the Marginalized - “Not only does Shandra embody the mission of our department with her dedication to collaboration, attention to detail, and knowledge that constantly impresses our coworkers, her dedication and kindness through her work for the most marginalized in our state is extraordinarily commendable. She is always there to lift up the hardest cases and shine a light on the need for systemic change. She has a way with approaching clients, no matter if they are the sickest within our mental health system or the sickest within our physical health system, to open up to her and share their burdens. Shandra is then able to, through her work, be the voice of acceptance, kindness, and strength for these clients. Shandra goes beyond the expectations of her job. She lives a life of service and kindness through her actions.” -Anonymous, April 3, 2024
Dawn Horn, ACCESS Virtual Learning Program Manager. Service with a Smile…and a laugh! - “Dawn is the picture of “Service with a Smile,” but better yet, she’s always laughing along with that smile! Dawn welcomed 3 new colleagues at the exact same time and spent hours training each with such kindness, patience, enthusiasm and humor that they have now formed a dynamic team! Together they work hard and they play hard, enjoying each other’s company thanks to the welcoming and encouraging environment established by Dawn’s cheerful personality.” -Anonymous, April 1, 2024