The University of Kentucky Office of the President and the UK Staff Senate celebrated the 2024 Outstanding Staff Awards (OSA) in early December. The awards highlight the exceptional dedication of staff who go above and beyond to make a difference at UK.
This year, the event saw an impressive 500+ nominations from across the university enterprise, reflecting the incredible contributions of UK employees. The original announcement of OSA finalists and winners can be found here.
Angie Phipps, MSL, academic advisor III at the Center of Excellence in Rural Health, was named Outstanding Staff Member of the Year. A finalist in the staff-nominated category, Phipps was named the overall 2024 winner.
On earning the award, Phipps shared the following:
"This recognition means so much to me, and I am truly humbled by it. I have the privilege of serving both the UK College of Medicine and the UK College of Health Sciences at the heart of our rural health community- the UK Center of Excellence in Rural Health. Supporting our students as they prepare to become the next generation of rural healthcare physical therapists and medical laboratory scientist professionals for the state of Kentucky is not just my role—it is my passion and a great privilege. This award reflects the incredible work and dedication of my colleagues, supervisor, and the inspiring students I have the honor of working with every day. Thank you to the University of Kentucky for recognizing the importance of this work and for giving me the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful mission. This recognition fuels my commitment to continue making a difference."
Terry Keys, patient advocacy manager at Markey Cancer Center, was named Outstanding Staff Member of the Year in the faculty-nominated category. Following is a brief excerpt from his nomination by Carl Leukefeld, DSW, professor and chair emeritus of behavioral science:
"Terry has worked for the University of Kentucky for over 20 years and holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from our institution. His career arc is impressive in scope and reflects his commitment to building community, whether on campus, off campus, or building bridges between the two...With Terry’s leadership, the Patient Advisory Group (PAG) continues to play a significant and visible role in identifying issues and finding solutions that move Markey forward in caring for its patients, their families, and their caregivers – just one part of why the Markey Cancer Center earned the National Cancer Institute’s “Comprehensive Cancer Center” designation this year. Terry is a champion and an advocate for patients and their care across all areas of the Markey Cancer Center. He also represents courage for innovative ideas to improve the lives of students, staff, faculty, and his community."
Congratulations to Phipps, Keys, and the many College of Medicine staff members nominated for Outstanding Staff Awards this year.
For more information about the OSA awards, visit https://staffsenate.uky.edu/.
