Twenty-five University of Maryland employees were honored Tuesday, February 17, 2026, with the Fearlessly Forward Awards, recognizing their dedication, innovation, and commitment to a supportive work environment.
Recognizing Contributions Across Campus
The awards, presented by the Fearlessly Forward Staff Awards Committee and University Human Resources, highlight the contributions of staff members across the university. Over 260 nominations were received for this year’s honors.
Two distinct awards were presented: the MVP Impact Award and the Terrapin Innovation Award. The MVP Impact Award recognizes staff who have made a significant positive impact through their work supporting operations, programs, or projects. The Terrapin Innovation Award honors those who have demonstrated creative thinking benefiting their unit, department, or the university as a whole.
Award Recipients
Recipients of the MVP Impact Award include Lauren Bacon, Bill Brandwein, Allison Dickinson, Jahaira Dixon, Susan-Ellis Dougherty, Nicole Garcia Diaz, Adrienne Hamcke Wicker, Cameron Hostetler, Joanne Leffson-Bryant, Lindsay Meyers, Louisa Nkrumah, Joann Prosser, Michael Robinson, Victoria Shay, Pathe Sow, Larry Tumlin, Karlena Walker, and Simone Warrick-Bell.
Those receiving the Terrapin Innovation Award are Obioma Akaigwe, Valencia Brown, Kimberly Rice DeGross, Amber Kohl, Athony Martinez-Felix, Andrea Phimphanh, and Jenny Sak.
University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines stated, “These individuals embody the spirit, dedication, and vision that craft our university such a wonderful place to work, and reflect our commitment to collaboration and progress.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Fearlessly Forward Awards?
The Fearlessly Forward Awards recognize University of Maryland staff members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
What are the two award categories?
The two award categories are the MVP Impact Award, recognizing significant positive impact through operational support, and the Terrapin Innovation Award, recognizing creative thinking and benefits to the university.
How many nominations were received for the 2026 awards?
The Fearlessly Forward Staff Awards Committee and University Human Resources received over 260 nominations.
As the University of Maryland continues its mission, will continued recognition of staff contributions remain a priority?
