CHS Family Celebrates at Student Awards

Apr 27, 2022

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

Some of the professors could barely hold back their tears. Then again, others didn't hold back at all.

That was the vibe at the 2022 College of Health Sciences Student Awards ceremony Tuesday.

It was a feel-good, end-of-year celebration of achievement held in the Worsham Cinema in the Gatton Student Center.

"Today is about our students," CHS Dean Scott Lephart, PhD, told the crowd. "This is an exciting time to celebrate."

Both Breona Link, who is graduating with a degree in Clinical Leadership and Management, and Onieta Stewart, from the Physician Assistant Program, earned the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Service.

"I am beyond honored to have been chosen to receive the Dean’s award for excellence in service and proud to represent the Physician Assistant Program in such an honorable way," said Stewart, the UKPA Class of 2022 Vice President. "I am looking forward to serving and advocating for the underserved patients of Kentucky and doing my part to continue our UKPA mission to create a well Kentucky."

More than 20 individual students were honored, along with Peer Mentors and Student Ambassadors.

Johanna Hoch, PhD, ATC, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Athletic Training and Clinical Nutrition, and Program Director of the Professional Masters in Athletic Training. She noted the excitement of how the program would be graduating its first-ever class next week.

And Karen Badger, PhD, MSW, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Undergraduate Education, said she is confident as this group of students moves on to their next goals.

"We know, beyond a doubt," she said, "that the future of healthcare is in good hands."