It’s a new year and we’re excited to kick off another year of Kindness Champions nominations as we continue celebrating the people who make UA a brighter, kinder place. Spread joy and recognize all the kindness that happens around us!
Give a shoutout to a colleague or UA community member who radiates kindness, performed a particularly kind act, or helped you when you needed. Each Kindness Champion receives a card with the note from the nominator, and the submission will be posted below.
Destiny Thomas, Practicum Instructor and Coordinator, Social Work
A Ray of Sunshine! – Destiny is a pleasure to work with. She cares deeply about her students, and, even though her work may be stressful, she prioritizes time with her students and supporting her coworkers with a smile. She brings joy with her into meetings and is kind to everyone.
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Gieva Patton, Procurement Specialist III, Purchasing
You are always so nice and willing to be so helpful no matter how crazy the orders can be! Thank you for everything!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Heather Peloquin, Building Associate, Engineering Services
My free weekly therapist! lol – I look forward to our weekly vent sessions when you come to visit during your walk throughs! Never forget how awesome you are!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Ali Hubbard, Executive Assistant I, Dean’s Office, Engineering
You are a miracle worker! You’ve always been a pleasure to collab with in the past! I don’t know how you do it! You are always positive and always willing to be a helping hand!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Trudeau Livaudais, Director of OTIDE Marketing
Genuine Leadership – Tru has a gift for coming across as genuine and deploys that magnificently when it comes to being kind. I’ve never encountered a director who checks in on their employees’ wellbeing as frequently as him or makes as conscious of an effort to establish a comfortable environment for everyone in meetings. Despite having a lot on his plate as a relatively new director here, he has consistently made time for helping people, whether it be with individual tasks or extracurricular activities like the OTIDE holiday tree. His kind soul shines through in his leadership style.
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Christopher Ray, Technology & Distance Education Coord, Social Work
To the person who is like the brother I never had! You have become one of my best friends and I always admire your honesty (even when it’s hard to hear, but you say it with love…most times (lol). I love you so much and I’m beyond thankful for you!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Ashley Bumgardner, Manager, Purchasing Card Services
My work mama! I love you so much and thank you so much for taking me under your wing! You’re one of my best friends and I’m so happy that we met when we did! Always remember your worth and that you are more than enough for us!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Melanie Barton, Accounting Assistant III, Dean’s Office, Engineering
My fellow animal lover! Thank you for always helping and answering any and everything I ever ask! You’ve always been so helpful to me in and outside of work even if it’s school related! Please always know how appreciated you are to us!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Canei McBee-Henry, Accountant I, Dean’s Office, Engineering
You’re one of the realest people I know (and I mean that in the best way possible). You’re always right to the point, but you’re a huge teddy bear deep down and protective over the people you love! Thank you for opening up and letting us love you!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Mary Catherine Campbell, Research Coordinator I, College of Engineering
Amazing! – My snack buddy! You are always so helpful no matter how many times I bug you with questions! You are always so patient with everyone (which is not always easy), but you do it with grace! Thank you for being you!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Erin Watley, Assistant Professor, Mathematics Department
Great Example – She always has things prepared meticulously. Always has a smile on her face and a positive attitude!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Chris Beasley, Purchasing Assistant, Chemical and Biological Engineering
Thank you for always being the best coworker! You always go above and beyond and expect nothing in return. You truly are awesome, and you need to give yourself more credit!
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Tiziana Giorgi, Department Head, Mathematics
Kind and Supportive – I appreciate her leadership and support. Her kindness and recognition motivate me to give my best effort.
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Michelle Estes, Administrative Assistant II, Capstone College of Nursing
Genuine and caring when you need it most – Michelle deserves to be a Kindness Champion because she truly embodies what kindness looks like every single day. She is always willing to lend a helping hand, no matter the situation, and she does so with such a genuine and caring heart. She is incredibly resourceful and thoughtful, always finding ways to support others and make life a little easier for those around her. When someone is struggling or simply needs someone to listen, she is calm, compassionate, and present. She has a way of making people feel heard, valued, and cared for. Above all, she is a good-hearted friend who consistently shows up with kindness, encouragement, and love. Her steady compassion and selfless spirit make her more than deserving of being recognized as a Kindness Champion.
-Anonymous, February 2, 2026
Allison Bothwell, Academic Advisor, Student Services
Thank you for always brining joy to our team! – Allison is always finding ways to show appreciation to our advising team! She puts on group lunches for us to hang out without talking about work! She also made every person a personalized motivation card to put in our offices. She is always willing to help or be a listening ear. I am very grateful to have her as a coworker!
-Elizabeth Eberhart, February 2, 2026
Dr. Joe Lambert, Laboratory Coordinator, Geological Sciences
Professional and Always Friendly – Always Consistent. Regardless of how he is feeling, Dr Lambert shows kindness and patience to everyone around him. Dr. Lambert, loves his department and he does everything he came to make it a more welcoming inviting place.
-LaQuandria Jones Wilkins, January 22, 2026
Lindsey Woodruff, Assistant Director of Housing Operations
Leading with Kindness – Lindsey demonstrates exceptional kindness and compassion. She consistently goes out of her way to support others, often without being asked or seeking recognition. Whether offering encouragement during difficult times, lending a helping hand when someone is overwhelmed, or simply listening with genuine care, she makes everyone feel valued and respected. Her kindness creates a positive and welcoming environment and has had a meaningful impact on those around her. Lindsey truly leads by example and reminds me that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
-Anonymous, January 15, 2026