- February 18, 2026
- By University Human Resources Staff
Twenty-five University of Maryland employees across campus were honored Tuesday with the 2026 Fearlessly Forward Awards who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and innovation and a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
The MVP Impact Award goes to staff who have made a significant positive impact on their teams and the university in their behind-the-scenes work that supports operations, programs or projects. The Terrapin Innovation Award recognizes staff who have demonstrated innovative and creative thinking that benefits their unit, department or the university.
“These individuals embody the spirit, dedication, and vision that make our university such a wonderful place to work, and reflect our commitment to collaboration and progress,” UMD President Darryll J. Pines said. “I want to thank you for continuing to relentlessly push the boundaries of what is possible and set new standards, while fostering an environment that gives everyone a chance to succeed.”
The Fearlessly Forward Staff Awards Committee and University Human Resources received over 260 nominations that highlight the outstanding contributions of individuals across the university.
MVP Impact Award recipients are:
- Lauren Bacon, Communications Program Manager, A. James Clark School of Engineering MATRIX Lab
- Bill Brandwein, Operations Manager and Facilities Manager, The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center
- Allison Dickinson, Program Director, Communications, Belonging and Community
- Jahaira Dixon, Program Management Specialist, College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences; Terrapin Teachers Staff
- Susan-Ellis Dougherty, Director, International Student and Scholar Services, Maryland Global
- Nicole Garcia Diaz, Assistant Director for Restorative Practices and Community Engagement, Department of Resident Life
- Adrienne Hamcke Wicker, Director, Center for Leadership and Organizational Change
- Cameron Hostetler, Specialist, Enterprise Resource Planning Services, Division of Information Technology
- Joanne Leffson-Bryant, Director of Administrative Services, Department of Psychology
- Lindsay Meyers, Senior Director, Office of Special Events
- Louisa Nkrumah, Learning Experience Designer, Teaching and Learning Transformation Center
- Joann Prosser, Director of Assessment, Division of Student Affairs
- Michael Robinson, Coordinator for Recruitment, Clark Foundation Scholarship Programs, A. James Clark School of Engineering
- Victoria Shay, Program Director, Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program, Robert H. Smith School of Business
- Pathe Sow, English Coordinator, Academic Achievement Programs
- Larry Tumlin, Manager, Dining Services
- Karlena Walker, Resident Director, Department of Resident Life
- Simone Warrick-Bell, Graduate Academic Counselor, the Graduate School
Terrapin Innovation Award recipients are:
- Obioma Akaigwe, Assistant Director, Business, Society and Entrepreneurship program, College Park Scholars
- Valencia Brown, Performance and Program Development Manager, University Human Resources
- Kimberly Rice DeGross, Assistant Dean, Office of Career Services, Robert H. Smith School of Business
- Amber Kohl, Curator of Literature and Rare Books/Research Engagement Coordinator, University Libraries
- Athony Martinez-Felix, Student Supervisor, Division of Student Affairs
- Andrea Phimphanh, Benefits and Retirement Specialist, University Human Resources
- Jenny Sak, Program Manager, Career Education and Exposure, University Career Center