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.
Cindi Bradley, Benefit Specialist II, Human Resources Benefits
Cindi’s care for employees shines through in everything she does! – Cindi is a true Kindness Champion! She’s always the first to volunteer and jumps into every task with enthusiasm. Her genuine care for employees shines through in everything she does, consistently going above and beyond to make sure they feel supported and valued.
-Anonymous, March 12, 2026
Jessica Hughes, Communication Specialist, Alabama Center for Real Estate
Creativity That Inspires – Jessica, our Communications Specialist, brings an incredible level of creativity and heart to everything she does. She has a remarkable ability to think outside the box and turn simple ideas into something meaningful and memorable. Every event she helps with becomes more than just an event—she adds elegance, purpose, and a message that truly represents our department. I appreciate how willing she always is to help. Jessica uses her talents to support others and make sure everything we do reflects the best of ACRE. Her creativity, kindness, and dedication make a lasting impact on our team, and I truly admire the care she puts into every detail. She helps make ACRE legendary in my eyes.
-Tawnya Martin, March 10, 2026
Wilson Lowery, Professor, Journalism and Creative Media, C&IS
The Nicest Person – Wilson is quite possibly one of the nicest people you will ever meet. Many people in the office say it to him, but I hope he truly knows how his gentle thoughtfulness and kind consideration makes people feel. He is welcoming, caring, and also just really smart. Thank you, Wilson. Your humor, leadership, and kindness are appreciated.
-Anonymous, March 6, 2026
Jennie Claybrook, Building Associate Dean’s Office, Barefield College A&S
Jennie was one of the first people I met when I came to UA and she is one of the sweetest souls! She is always willing to go above and beyond to help anybody! She is very knowledgeable and so easy to work with!
-Anonymous, March 5, 2026
Terrie Sullivan, Accounting Assistant II, Accounts Payable
Terrie is always so helpful! She is very knowledgeable in what she does and is willing to answer every question with grace!
-Anonymous, March 5, 2026
Jan Nichols, Benefits Specialist II, Human Resources
Such a sweetheart! – Jan shows kindness in multiple ways! She always shows empathy and understanding. She is so helpful and definitely deserves this nomination!
-Anonymous, March 5, 2026
Kelli Ball, Administrative Assistant II, Alumni Affairs
A Ray of Sunshine Each Day with Kelli – I’d like to nominate Kelli Ball for the Kindness Award. Kelli is genuinely kind in everything she does and unfailingly puts others first. She is always looking for ways to brighten her coworkers’ day—whether through a thoughtful gesture, a positive word, or simply being there when someone needs support. Her consistent generosity and caring spirit create a workplace where people feel valued, seen, and uplifted. Kelli doesn’t just show kindness; she lives it, and we are all better for it.
-Anonymous, March 4, 2026
Rhonda Walker, Scholarship Associate II, Alumni Affairs
The Giver – I’d like to nominate Rhonda Walker for the Kindness Award. Rhonda is genuinely kind in everything she does and unfailingly puts others first. She is always looking for ways to brighten her coworkers’ day—whether through a thoughtful gesture, a positive word, or simply being there when someone needs support. Her consistent generosity and caring spirit create a workplace where people feel valued, seen, and uplifted. Rhonda doesn’t just show kindness; she lives it, and we are all better for it.
-Anonymous, March 4, 2026
Jason VanEss, Custodian, Department of Psychology
Professional, Happy to Help! – Although new to our building, running into Jason always makes us smile. He does his job well and with pride!
-Anonymous, March 3, 2026
Natalie Holland, Program Coordinator, Collegiate Recovery and Intervention Services
Encouragement That Makes a Difference! – I would like to nominate Natalie Holland as a Kindness Champion. In less than a year, she has already made a meaningful and lasting impact. Among her many contributions, Natalie works tirelessly with students in long-term recovery, planning and attending student events after hours and on weekends to ensure they feel supported and connected. She leads with compassion in everything she does. Natalie is consistently kind, approachable, and always ready with an encouraging word. She is a true ally for those in recovery, creating a safe space where students feel seen, valued, and empowered. We are incredibly fortunate to have her on our team.
-Anonymous, March 2, 2026
Rhiannon Davidson, Purchasing Assistant
Efficiency in every task – Rhiannon lights up the whole office with her smile and kindness. She is the first to volunteer for any task and loves to help everyone. She is a pleasure to work with, and she is appreciated by everyone in the CCEE Department.
-Anonymous, February 27, 2026
Lusiana Scott, Accounting Assistant in the Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
Excellence in everything she does – Lusi is always willing to go above and beyond for everyone she meets. She genuinely cares for each individual and is always available to help out. It’s such a joy to be able to work in the same office as her, and I hope she knows how much everyone appreciates her!
-Anonymous, February 27, 2026
Charles Harrell, Admin I, Graduate Program Coordinator
A Welcome Addition to Our Department – Although relatively new to our department, Charles Harrell has quickly become an invaluable member of our team. He consistently demonstrates authenticity, kindness, and remarkable patience even in situations that might cause others to pull their hair out. His kindness is also instrumental to our success in recruiting graduate students. Charles takes a hands-on approach at every stage of their journey, and his care and presence create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.
-Anonymous, February 27, 2026
Britt Guynes, Graphic Designer II, Alumni Affairs Department
True Kindness Champion – Britt is a true example of a kindness champion. He is always willing to lend a hand to any of coworkers when help is needed and always does it with a smile. He is very welcoming and friendly to everyone he encounters!
-Anonymous, February 27, 2026
Cindy Apperson, Admin I, Undergraduate Program Coordinator, Psychology Department
The Beating Heart of Our Department – Ms. Cindy Apperson is the first person someone sees when they enter our department lobby and often the first person they interact with. When students or staff in our department (and other departments, too!) have questions, Cindy can be relied upon to know the answer. That institutional knowledge is our backbone, and we are so fortunate to have her. Thank you for what you do, Cindy.
-Anonymous, February 27, 2026
Chris Beasley, Purchasing Assistant, Chemical & Biological Engineering
Chris always shows kindness – Chris is always so kind and polite. He asks good questions and always wants to do the right thing. Chemical is lucky to have such a great Purchasing Assistant. Keep up the good work, Chris!
-Anonymous, February 26, 2026
Lusiana Scott, Accounting Assistant, Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
Leading with Kindness – I’m always so happy to see Lusi and know working with her is always going to be great. She leads with kindness in everything she does. I appreciate her excellence and willingness to help. I hope she knows how appreciated she is!
-Anonymous, February 25, 2026
Rhiannon Davidson, Purchasing Assistant, Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
Thanks to Rhiannon for her kindness – Rhiannon always cooperates with kindness, and that makes it great to work with her. I always smile when I see her coming! I hope she knows how appreciated she is!
-Anonymous, February 25, 2026
Mariah Parker, Student Services Assistant in Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
Kindness and Collaboration – Mariah is so great to work with. You know she’ll approach every situation with kindness and always works in a positive way. I hope she realizes how appreciated she is, for the great job she does and for being so kind and professional while she’s doing it.
-Anonymous, February 25, 2026
Sheila Mullenix, Administrative Assistant, Safe State Executive Director Office
We all benefit from Sheila’s kindness! – Sheila leads with kindness and professionalism with everything she does. It’s a true pleasure to work with her. I always know she will approach situations with kindness. I hope she knows how appreciated she is!
-Anonymous, February 25, 2026
Dennis Rath, Systems Analyst, Engineering Services, Technology Services
Kindness Without Trying – Dennis is the type of genuinely kind person you love to be around and work with. He’s always willing to help you and go the extra mile – or 10 miles! And sometimes it’s a marathon. Thank you to Dennis for being the kind person he is!
-Anonymous, February 25, 2026
Kymberli Lindsey, Student Services Assistant, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Kind and Professional – Kymberli deserves a nomination as a Kindness Champion because she approaches every situation with kindness and understanding. From students to faculty to staff to visitors: she’s always creating a kind atmosphere while doing such a great job. I love working with her! I hope she knows how appreciated she is!
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Kaley McDaniel, Administrative Assistant, Computer Science
Kindness Champion all the way around! – Kaley embodies all the aspects of a Kindness Champion. She’s always friendly and professional. Treats situations with understanding. I really enjoy working with Kaley and hope she knows how appreciated she is at the College!
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Amber Harbin, Administrative Assistant II, Chemical and Biological Engineering
Kind and Understanding – Amber is so great to work with and should be recognized as a Kindness Champion. I know she’s always going to be kind and friendly – while doing a great job. She is generous with her excellence and her understanding that things aren’t always perfect. It makes challenging moments much easier to navigate. She is appreciated!
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Blake Morris, Purchasing Assistant, Engineering
Kindness with Excellence – I always love working with Blake because he does such a good job, is always willing to help, and treats people so well. I never worry about anything when Blake is on my team. He approaches people with respect and kindness – and that goes for visitors and faculty/staff/students alike!
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Jessica McKeough, Accounting Assistant, Engineering
Kind and Helpful – Jessica is always helpful and makes sure you have everything you need. She’s so great to work with! I hope she knows that her kindness is appreciated!
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Adrienne Hall, Event Planner, Engineering Development, Styslinger College of Engineering
Kindness with Character – Working with Adrienne is a real pleasure. I appreciate that she shows kindness in so many ways: from her genuine concern for faculty, staff, and visitors to the excellence reflected in every event she plans. She’s always willing to go the extra mile for everyone. She’s so appreciated and embodies the values of a Kindness Champion!
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Cathy Dye, Administrative Assistant, Engineering Student Services, Styslinger College of Engineering
Simply the best! – Cathy was one of the first people I met when I started – and I knew right away how special she was. She is so generous with her knowledge and always offers to help. Above and beyond in every way. It’s a true pleasure working with her – and impossible not to appreciate her authentically kind nature. I smile every time I see her!
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Skye Hamilton, Recruitment Program Director, Styslinger College of Engineering
Collaboration with Kindness – Skye not only represents the College in the best possible ways – she manages to do it with kindness and excellence at every level, from students to faculty to assistants to leadership. You really feel like she VALUES people and she always collaborates with kindness. It’s a pleasure working with her.
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Anna Claire Toxey, Communications Program Manager, Styslinger College of Engineering
Graciousness personified – Anna Claire is the quintessential professional, managing to balance kindness and excellence. She is always willing to help, even in stressful situations. Anna Claire is generous and authentic with her kindness and a true pleasure to work with.
-Anonymous, February 17, 2026
Ms. Teresa Ivory, Custodian
Joy Giver – Ms. Teresa is like a ray of sunshine who brightens everyone’s day. She is always warm, personable, and eager to help, making her such a blessing to all of us. Throughout the year, she thoughtfully leaves little “happies” on our desks for holidays like Christmas, Easter, Halloween, and Valentine’s Day—small gestures that mean so much. Her kindness and generosity never go unnoticed, and I truly hope she knows just how deeply appreciated she is.
-Kathy Morris and Marc Skipwith, February 13, 2026
Woodrow Wilson, Teaching Assistant Professor, ChBE
You ROCK!! Dr. Wilson you ROCK!! Thank you for all always smiling and laughing! You know how to brighten up a room! I hope you keep that spark throughout life!!
-Anonymous, February 12, 2026
Canei McBee-Henry, Accountant I, Dean’s Office, College of Engineering
You ROCK!! Canei you ROCK! Thank you for being you! You are amazing and everyone around you is affected by your amazing personality! You are a ROCK STAR!!
-Anonymous, February 12, 2026
Mary Catherine Campbell, Research Coordinator I, College of Engineering
You are such a positive and happy person! Your smile and bright personality ROCK! You spread positivity to everyone around you! Thank you for being who you are!!
-Anonymous, February 10, 2026
Holly Green, Administrative Specialist, Athletic Training
You bring cheer and positivity to the workday! Thank you for everything you do!
-Anonymous, February 6, 2026
Mary Ford Williams, Procurement Specialist II, Purchasing
Mary Ford, you bring cheer and light wherever you go! Thank you for always being available to answer questions and help!
-Anonymous, February 6, 2026
Stephanie Loveland, Teaching Professor, ChBE
You ROCK! Thank you, Dr. Loveland, for always being a positive, smiling, and happy person! Your attitude is contagious and you make everyone around you smile! Thank you for being a ROCK STAR!!
-Anonymous, February 5, 2026
Dione King, Associate Dean/Associate Professor, Social Work
To the best boss! Thank you so much for making my first few months in Social Work a blast! I have already learned so much but can’t wait to see what other wisdom you have to share. I am glad to call you my fearless leader and I’m excited to be a part of your team!
-Anonymous, February 5, 2026
Dyneisha Jones, Administrative Assistant II, Social Work
Thank you Dyneisha for making my first few months a blast. I have enjoyed getting to work with you and learning all new things about the world of Social Work. You are now my snack buddy because I can count on you to always have good snacks (even the ones you don’t like)!
-Anonymous, February 5, 2026
Amy McLean, Instructor, Coordinator of Teaching Innovation
To my partner in crime! Thank you for making my transition to Social Work a blast and always entertaining my debrief meetings after a meeting. I love getting to work with you every day and can’t wait to learn more about the world of online teaching.
-Anonymous, February 5, 2026
John Kim, Associate Professor & Interim Department Head, ChBE
You ROCK! – Thank you for always being an open and amazing person. You are always smiling and willing to help. You make the day better with you positive and bright attitude. You are AMAZING!
-Chris Beasley, February 5, 2026
Gieva Patton, Procurement Specialist III, Purchasing
You ROCK! – Gieva, you are AMAZING! You are so knowledgeable and willing to share and help without any thought of being annoyed or upset is so encouraging! Your attitude, personality, and smile is infectious! You are a bright star, thank you for shining!!!
-Anonymous, February 5, 2026
Melanie Barton, Accounting Assistant III, Dean’s Office, Engineering
You ROCK!! – Melanie you ROCK! You are so happy! Your smile is infectious and your ability to spread your positivity to everyone you speak with is amazing! You take on so much without complaint and do it with a smile is a rare thing. You are a bright star! Thank you for shining!!
-Anonymous, February 5, 2026
Amber Harbin, Administrative Assistant II, ChBE
You so totally ROCK! – Thank you for being an AMAZING person! You are so patient and willing to help that it blows my mind! You are the corner stone of ChBE’s office. You truly do blow me away! You’re an amazing coworker and friend. Today’s a great day to have a great day!!
-Anonymous, February 5, 2026
Teresa Faulkner, Manager, Learning & Development
Role Model for Kindness and Hospitality – Teresa is kind, thoughtful, and extremely hospitable to all who enter the Employee Resource Center. She makes new employees feel at home during New Employee Orientation, welcomes colleagues who participate in or facilitate professional development opportunities, and demonstrates thoughtful attention to detail when planning and setting up each event. Her kindness makes each learner and guest feel valued as part of the UA family!
-Corrie Davis, February 4, 2026
Alina Amstutz, Library Public Services Assistant, University Libraries
“Have a Happy One!” – Alina engages with everyone around her in such a positive way that can only brighten your day. I don’t think she has an unkind bone in her body and speaks to everyone with interest and kindness. Whenever you leave her company, she will always cheerfully exclaim, “Have a happy one!”
-Courtney Tutt, February 3, 2026
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