Library Finance Team: Verstell Agee and Cheryl Parker

Their unwavering commitment to ethical conduct and integrity sets a shining example for our entire community. Under their guidance, financial resources have been allocated not just efficiently, but ethically, ensuring that every dollar spent advances the Library’s commitment to accessibility, education, and innovation. Their transparent and accountable management practices have set a benchmark for ethical financial leadership, fostering trust among stakeholders and enhancing the library’s ability to serve our community effectively. Their stewardship over a multimillion-dollar budget, and their exceptional dedication to upholding and promoting the highest standards of ethical conduct within the GT Library has set a remarkable standard, aligning seamlessly with our institution’s mission, vision, and goals.

I&S Health & Safety Fair Team: Jamaal Taylor, Kristy Jennings, April Kelly, Alicia Wood-Jones, Vanessa Keel-Biggers, Bridget Mourao, and Christopher Lekan

This team has shown dedication to the well-being of our campus community and is committed to reshaping workplace culture around health and safety. They organized the first-ever I&S Health and Safety Fair, bringing together safety vendors and providing interactive resources for employees. This event raised awareness and provided tangible health resources, from blood pressure screenings to safety training on topics such as bloodborne pathogens, hazardous waste management, and safe workplace practices. Their commitment ensures a safer, healthier community for all of us, where wellness practices are embedded into the organizational culture.

Graduate Career Development Team: Gwenn Seo, Ariel Gladney, Catharine Groover, Christina Hall, and Megan Elrath

The Graduate Career Development Team models a culture of belonging through approachability, responsiveness, and collaboration. Their student-centered approach is evident in the way they proactively listen to graduate students’ concerns, adapt programming based on feedback, and create opportunities in ways that break down barriers, advocate for diverse perspectives, and connect students to vital career resources. The team’s personalized approach reflects a commitment to ensuring that every graduate student—whether on-campus, online, domestic, or international—feels equipped and empowered to navigate their career journey successfully, both within and beyond Georgia Tech.

Trina Paden, Senior Program and Operations Manager, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Technology Center at Georgia Tech

Trina Paden has played an instrumental role in advancing pediatric innovation at Georgia Tech. As Senior Program and Operations Manager for the Pediatric Technology Center, she has led transformative initiatives like the GT Pediatric Innovation Network’s Innovation Day, the Shriners State of Science Symposium, and the Intersection of Biology and Engineering Workshop Series. Her leadership in event coordination, faculty collaboration, and operational strategy has strengthened partnerships, secured funding, and expanded research opportunities.

AI4OPT Management Team: Jaci Bjorne, Michael Butros, Brad Crawford, Kevin Dalmeijer, Cami Douglass, Eli Kuperman, Breon Martin, Justin Romberg, Lisa Salter, and Chelsea White

The Artificial Intelligence Institute for Advances in Optimization Management Team has built something extraordinary from the ground up. This dedicated group has positioned Georgia Tech as a global leader in AI Engineering, forming partnerships across academia and industry, launching pioneering education initiatives, and securing multimillion-dollar funding. The work by the team has served as a template for Tech AI, the Georgia Tech AI Hub which now connects 1,000 AI researchers and serves as the face of Georgia Tech’s AI efforts. Their vision, collaboration, and relentless drive for excellence make them truly deserving of the Excellence Award.

Andrea Comsa, Director of Undergraduate Co-op and Internship Programs, Experiential & Engaged Learning

Andrea’s leadership in streamlining experiential learning opportunities across the Institute is exemplary. She led the creation of an Internship Task Force to address inconsistencies in co-op and internship programs, bringing together faculty, staff, and departments to establish a standardized process for students and employers. Andrea achieves these results through her team by being a supportive and empowering leader. She ensures her staff has the resources and guidance needed to excel. Her mentorship and dedication to professional growth have led to noticeable improvements in performance and personal development, enabling her team to contribute effectively to the Institute’s goals.

Don Johnson, Assistant Director of Housing Warehouse & Fleet, Housing and Residence Life

Don Johnson is the embodiment of leadership in action. As Assistant Director of Housing, Warehouse & Fleet, he combines strategic thinking with a deep commitment to team development and operational excellence. Whether navigating crises, optimizing logistics, or mentoring his staff, Don’s leadership ensures seamless housing operations for thousands of students. His problem-solving mindset, collaborative nature, and dedication to elevating others make him an invaluable asset to Georgia Tech.

Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education Team (SCoRE): Kristina Chatfield, Ruth Yow, Anna Tinoco-Santiago, Nicole Kennard, Jennifer Hirsch

The SCoRE team has redefined sustainability leadership at Georgia Tech, bridging research and real-world impact. Their groundbreaking initiatives—like the Energy Equity Faculty Fellows Program and Community-Engaged Sustainability Research principles—have fostered collaboration across disciplines and strengthened community partnerships. From securing competitive grants to shaping Georgia Tech’s sustainability policies, their work is transforming how we engage with environmental justice and climate resilience. Their leadership sets a powerful example of how research can drive real change.

Housing Lottery Process Team: Kari White, Jennifer Grover, Marlow Taylor, Alison Southern, Sharon Ferguson, David Askew, Nina Gregory, Cindy Kropff, and LaToya Bostick

This team revolutionized Georgia Tech’s housing application process with a bold, equity-driven approach. By replacing the first-come, first-served model with a lottery system, they removed barriers, ensured fairness, and provided students with much-needed transparency and peace of mind. Their dedication to stakeholder engagement by hosting dozens of meetings and listening sessions, strategic problem-solving, and student-centered innovation has transformed housing selection into a more inclusive and stress-free experience. They cut complaints by more than half, which has been a win in more ways than one. This vision of this team has truly taken a giant leap in serving our students.

Brittany Aiello, Faculty Communications Program Manager, Institute Communications

Brittany tackled the challenge of scattered faculty governance records by redesigning the website. She recovered thousands of records dating back to 2000, converting them into readable, searchable formats, and migrated 2,628 documents into an accessible structure. She also improved website navigation with Faculty Governance leadership. Her efforts created a centralized, intuitive hub, ensuring stakeholders could quickly find necessary materials for accreditation, enhancing communication, and decision-making. Brittany’s ability to take small but powerful steps toward excellence exemplifies the true spirit of this award.

Elizabeth Reese, Program & Operations Manager, First-Year Study Abroad

Elizabeth’s dedication to student success goes beyond managing the First Year Semester Abroad program. She ensures every decision is backed by student feedback, actively seeking faculty collaboration and student testimonials. Through mentorship, structured reflection opportunities, and seamless program transitions, she ensures students thrive both abroad and on campus. She organized a Welcome Back Celebration and coordinated an OIE Re-Entry Workshop to help students integrate their international experience with their academic and professional goals. Her commitment to student well-being and success makes her a true champion of putting students first.

GTPE Academic Program Team: Jennifer Wooley, Asha Curry, Brittany Eko, Stephanie Jackson, Justin LaFantano, Shea Johnson, Jacky Ko, Jade Charnigo, Tiara Anderson, Molly McInerney, Patti Styles, Bridget Dunigan, Adriane Johnson, Kristina Bates, O’Torria Weathers-Williams, Kelly Dineen, Susan Fenwick, Jessica Wilson, Don-Fiona Gould, Brianna Palmer, Austin Walters, Rukkaiya Patthawala, Zil Patel, Ryan Nelson, and Jesse Harris

The GTPE Academic Program Team goes above and beyond to support Georgia Tech’s 10,000 professional education students. From onboarding to graduation, they ensure seamless experiences through personalized advising, virtual office hours, and career development programs. Their innovations, including the My Online Program Success Portal and Career Connect initiative, provide crucial academic and professional guidance. Their unwavering commitment to student success fosters engagement, retention, and career advancement. This team truly exemplifies what it means to put students first, making a lasting impact on the lives of Georgia Tech learners worldwide.

Marybeth Dinges, Video Production Manager, Scheller College of Business

Marybeth Dinges has redefined creative storytelling at Georgia Tech’s Scheller College of Business. Since joining in 2023, she has transformed video and photography production, elevating the College’s visibility and engagement. From pioneering high-impact marketing campaigns to mentoring student creatives, Marybeth’s leadership and innovation have amplified Scheller’s reach across campus and beyond. Her commitment to excellence, collaboration, and pushing creative boundaries makes her a standout rising leader.

Steven Gagliano, Communications Officer II, Institute Communications

Steven Gagliano has quickly become a driving force in Institute Communications, elevating Georgia Tech’s storytelling with creativity and impact. From producing the Generating Buzz podcast to showcasing Olympic engineering innovations, his work has reached thousands, reinforcing Tech’s brand reputation. Beyond content creation, he leads with collaboration, mentoring students and stepping up wherever needed. His dedication, initiative, and passion for excellence embody what it means to be a Rising Wreck.

Elizabeth Henry, Laboratory and Chemical Safety Specialist, Environmental Health & Safety

Elizabeth Henry goes beyond her job responsibilities to support the community and volunteered over 150 hours last year in the Georgia Tech and Atlanta communities through education, sustainability, and STEM outreach. Whether through advocacy, outreach, or hands-on involvement, Elizabeth has made a tangible difference in the lives of many. She creates inclusive campus experiences by volunteering to support often overlooked communities, such as 2nd and 3rd shift employees, and builds strong partnerships across campus through volunteering at various large scale campus programs. Her commitment to service reflects Georgia Tech’s dedication to progress and community impact.

Alan Pruitt, Facilities Manager II, School of Physics

Alan Pruitt, Facilities Manager in the School of Physics, is the backbone of Howey. With 13 years of dedication, he ensures the building runs smoothly, supporting faculty, students, and research with unwavering commitment. Whether responding to emergencies, enhancing facilities, or simply going the extra mile, Alan embodies service and excellence. His leadership, problem-solving, and care for the Georgia Tech community make him the perfect recipient of the Spirit of Georgia Tech Award.

Patrice Hewitt, Graduate Admission Manager, Office of Graduate Education

Patrice Hewitt is the embodiment of Georgia Tech’s spirit of progress and service. As Graduate Admission Manager, she has transformed the admissions process, streamlining operations, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring inclusivity for a growing graduate community of over 52% of our student body. Her leadership in developing training resources, improving student support, and fostering a culture of respect has elevated the entire Office of Graduate Education. Patrice’s unwavering dedication, mentorship, and strategic vision truly set her apart.

Lisa Tuttle, Assistant Director of Administrative Operations, Office of the Executive Vice President for Research

As Assistant Director of Administrative Operations for the EVPR office, Lisa has gone above and beyond to foster efficiency, teamwork, and service. Throughout her 17-year tenure, Lisa has been a trusted resource, always willing to help colleagues find solutions and navigate challenges. She is the first to volunteer for extra tasks, the first to offer a helping hand, and the first to advocate for positive change. Lisa’s dedication to the Georgia Tech community is reflected not just in her daily work but also in the lasting impact of her initiatives. Whether leading major events, stepping in to support overwhelmed colleagues, or simply brightening someone’s day with her positive spirit, Lisa embodies the very essence of the Spirit of Georgia Tech.

Library Technical Services Team: Glenna Barney, Teresa Lathrom, Carolyn Gill, Nicholas Cooper-Kedrick, Rick Goodin, Will Winchester

The Library Technical Services Team embodies Georgia Tech’s commitment to student success. Working behind the scenes, they ensure seamless access to critical resources, saving students over $185,000 in course materials in 2024 alone. Their dedication to affordability, innovation, and collaboration strengthens the entire Georgia Tech community. By streamlining interlibrary loan services, improving course reserves, and breaking down barriers to education, they truly embody the Spirit of Georgia Tech.