Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) recognized outstanding faculty and staff at its annual President’s Excellence Awards on April 16, 2026. Seven EKU employees were awarded for their exceptional commitment to students and the university.
“Every day across EKU, our employees demonstrate what commitment and excellence look like in action,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Their work shapes the university and makes a difference in the lives of our students.”
The 2026 President’s Excellence Award recipients included Jeanette Crabtree, Jesse Hood, Marie Fore, Dr. José Juan Gómez-Becerra, Hunter Howard, Dr. Jason Fry and Dr. Lara Vance.
Jeanette Crabtree, the office manager of EKU Housing & Residence Life, earned the Excellence in Community and Belonging Award. This award celebrates an employee who has positively impacted the campus community and built upon the existing culture of belonging. “I’m truly honored to receive the EKU President’s Excellence Award. With so many outstanding nominees, this recognition feels unreal,” she said. “I have always had a deep love for Eastern and all it represents. I guess you could say I am one of the Eternal Colonels.”
Jesse Hood, the executive director of housing and events, earned the Excellence in Engagement and Hospitality Award. The recipient of this award demonstrates excellent service, turning routine interactions into memorable experiences. McFaddin shared a quote from Hood’s nomination letter, saying, “Jesse approaches every task with a sense of pride and purpose, understanding that engagement and hospitality begin long before a guest walks through the door.”
Marie Fore, the director of principal gifts and assistant director of planned giving, earned the Excellence in Innovation Award. This award recognizes innovative thinking and bold action, elevating and differentiating EKU. In her nomination letter, a colleague said, “Since joining the development and alumni engagement office, Marie has transformed how we cultivate relationships, steward support and engage with our alumni and donor community.”
Dr. José Juan Gómez-Becerra, associate professor of Spanish and the director of student success with the Bobby Verdugo and Yoli Ríos Bilingual Peer Mentor and Tutoring Center, earned the Excellence in Student Support Award. This award showcases the highest standards of service and support while creating an engaging and welcoming environment for students. “This recognition for excellence in student support extends beyond my personal achievement,” he said. “It is rather an acknowledgement for a collective endeavor that extends from our students to our institutional leadership. I am thankful to work alongside extraordinary colleagues serving students whose stories are incredible and inspiring.”
Hunter Howard, the director of operations for housing and student life, earned the Emerging Leader Award, which honors individuals in the early stages of their professional journey who have outstanding qualities such as innovation, vision, teamwork and a commitment to excellence. “Hunter exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional emerging leader,” said McFaddin, reading from Howard’s nomination letter. “He approaches every challenge by carefully examining all perspectives.”
Dr. Jason Fry, associate professor of physics, earned the Excellence in Research Award, a new award for 2026. “Dr. Fry has built an extraordinary research program defined by innovation, rigor, national leadership and impactful student engagement,” said McFaddin.
Dr. Lara Vance, the dean of students, earned the Excellence in Leadership Award. This award focuses on exemplary leadership and those who advance the mission of the university through collaboration and capable management. “I feel honored not just to be recognized in this way but also to serve at EKU,” she said. “We are not just the School of Opportunity for students, but also, my own life has been transformed by the opportunities I have had while working here. I am grateful for amazing colleagues whose commitment to our shared mission is inspirational and for our students who allow me to be part of their journey.”
Employees recognized at the ceremony for their 25-year milestone include:
- Michelle Estelle
- Julie George
- Dr. Jon McChesney
- Ashlee Oliver
- Rebecca Stinnett
- Tarena Tyree
Employees recognized for their 30-year milestone include:
- Dr. Tom Otieno
- Dr. Marcia Pierce
- Jill Price
Employees recognized for their 35-year milestone include:
- Beth Campbell
- Jackie Couture
- Dr. Eugene Styer
One employee, Dr. Kambiz Tabibzadeh, was recognized for his 40-year milestone.
The President’s Excellence Awards recognize faculty and staff who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to EKU’s core values—showcasing EKU’s dedication to being the Employer of Choice and celebrating employees.
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