College Park, MD – The Fearlessly Forward Staff Awards Committee and University Human Resources, on behalf of the University of Maryland, is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s Fearlessly Forward Awards, celebrating 25 staff members who have made outstanding contributions to the university’s mission and community.
The Fearlessly Forward Awards, which include the MVP Impact Award and the Terrapin Innovation Award, recognize recipients who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
In a video message to recipients, UMD President Darryll J. Pines praised the 25 outstanding individuals who continue to shape the university's culture and success. He stated, "These individuals embody the spirit and vision that make our university such an extraordinary place to learn, work, and grow. They reflect our shared commitment to excellence, collaboration, and progress."
Over 230 nominations were received, highlighting the outstanding contributions of individuals across the university. The efforts of these awardees not only strengthen the university but also embody the spirit of progress and excellence that drives the institution forward.
"These awards are more than a moment of recognition—they symbolize the transformative impact of our shared efforts here at the University of Maryland and our collective pursuit of growth and excellence,” said Senior Vice President and Provost Jennifer King Rice. “Each of our recipient's stories stands as a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering dedication.”
The Fearlessly Forward Awards recognize staff members in two distinct categories, each reflecting key values of the university’s mission:
The MVP Impact Award: This award honors staff who, over the past year, have demonstrated a Fearlessly Forward attitude through excellence, amazing service, and outstanding contributions. MVP Impact Award recipients have made a significant positive impact on their teams and the university by embodying the core values of the institution. They have contributed behind-the-scenes work that supports operations, programs, or projects, and their dedication helps everything run smoothly for everyone else. These staff members build strong communities within their departments and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to their colleagues and the university’s success.
The Terrapin Innovation Award: This award recognizes staff who have introduced new ideas—whether fully implemented or still in the concept stage—that capture the spirit of moving Fearlessly Forward. The recipients of this award have demonstrated innovative and creative thinking that benefits their unit, department, or the university. Examples of their contributions include providing creative solutions to problems or workplace challenges, suggesting new ways to improve services or programs, and promoting productivity to enhance the workplace.
At the heart of the University of Maryland’s mission is a commitment to creating an environment where everyone can thrive, and the Fearlessly Forward Awards honor those who exemplify this vision through their work and actions.
The MVP Impact Award Recipients are:
Kaitlyn Baligush, AGNR-University of Maryland Extension-Home and Garden
Rebecca Bellinger, BMGT-Center for Global Business
Warren Bryan, DIT-Enterprise Resource Planning
Earl Cabellon, VPSA-VP Student Affairs
Lanna Duarte, SPHL-School of Public Health
Michael Glowacki, VPSA-VP Student Affairs
Rosanne Hoaas, VPA-Public Safety
Laura Hood, VPSA-Stamp Student Union
Kimberly Kasak, ENGR- A. James Clark School of Engineering
Robyn Kotzker, GRAD-Graduate School
Richa Mathur, CMNS-Computer Science
Adrienne Mayo-Brown, EDUC-Teaching and Learning, Policy and Leadership
Allison Panila, VPSA- Conferences and Visitors Services
Nicole Pietrucha, UGST-Undergraduate Studies
CJ Polihronakis, VPSA- Counseling Center
Aspen Shackleford, VPSA-RL
Jarrell Slade, UGST-Pre College-Program Undergraduate Studies
Natacha Thys, VPA-University Human Resources
The Terrapin Innovation Award Recipients are:
Pierre Campbell, VPSA-Resident Life
Shayna Hodges, VPA-Transportation Services-Parking
Penny Jacobs, VPSA-UHC-Women's Health
Zarna Pala, CMNS-College of Computer, Math & Natural Sciences
Erin Schlegel, VPSA-Resident Life
Mary Shelley, SPHL-School of Public Health
Chantelle Smith, UGST- Honors College
President Darryl J. Pines, Provost Jennifer King Rice, and other university leadership recognized award recipients at a February 4, 2025 ceremony. Nominations for the Fearlessly Forward Awards will open again in Fall 2025. To learn more about the awards, please visit the Fearlessly Forward Staff Awards page.