Award Winners

Martha Church Endowment Prize 2025

Dr. Sherita Henry has strongly advocated for the public health program's outreach efforts, ensuring students engage with community organizations and understand local issues.

Her initiatives have helped students work towards improving public health both within Hood College and throughout the Frederick community. She has also provided leadership in Community Health Initiatives. Fo example, Dr. Henry has played a pivotal role in the Coalition for a Healthier Frederick County, leading workgroups that address critical public health issues such as mental health and health equity. Her involvement in community efforts, particularly in maternal and child health, has significantly raised awareness of public health challenges and solutions.
 

Under Dr. Henry's leadership, the public health program has partnered with approximately 10 Frederick County public health, nonprofit, and social service agencies. These collaborations have enhanced the program's impact and provided valuable resources and opportunities for students. 

Dr. Henry P. and Page Laughlin Faculty Award 2025

Dr. Jennifer Cuddapah is the recipient of the Dr. Henry P. and Page Laughlin Faculty Professional Achievement Award for her unwavering dedication to teaching, scholarship, and service. A true model of faculty excellence, Dr. Cuddapah constantly seeks ways to strengthen her teaching through grant work and research, remaining at the forefront of innovative educational practices. She is a creative and agile thinker, able to generate high-quality proposals with both speed and substance.

A collaborative colleague, she uplifts those around her, consistently supporting faculty and doctoral students. She invests significant time mentoring doctoral candidates, guiding their dissertations with expertise and care and showing deep empathy for the personal circumstances that impact their professional growth. Her commitment to their success is both tireless and heartfelt.

During the past two academic years, she served as Chair of the Faculty Executive Committee and led with clarity, transparency, and a commitment to representing the collective voice of the faculty. Her leadership is grounded in fairness and integrity.

Dr. Cuddapah has also made notable contributions to the development of computational thinking curricula, advancing the quality of teacher education. Her scholarly output includes multiple published articles that reflect a depth of expertise and a passion for educational improvement.

She exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated, compassionate, and impactful faculty member in every way. This award would be a well-deserved recognition of her enduring commitment to the academic community.

Dr. Henry P. and Page Laughlin Staff Awards 2025

Amani Al-Dajane has made an extraordinary impact on Hood College’s international community through tireless advocacy, compassionate leadership, and an unwavering commitment to student success. From late-night emergency calls to guidance on complex visa regulations, this individual has become a trusted lifeline for undergraduate and graduate students navigating life far from home. Their leadership has expanded essential services and support programs, including cultural adaptation resources, pre-arrival orientations, and workshops that empower students throughout their academic journey and beyond.

They have also transformed the campus experience by growing traditions such as International Education Week, Holi, and Iftar into major celebrations of culture and inclusion. As an office of one, they’ve built a thriving global community through hands-on mentorship, creative programming, and a consistent presence that makes every student feel seen, heard, and valued.

India Dennis stepped into a critical leadership role during a time of major transition, and did so with extraordinary grace, professionalism, and impact. During this transition, they embraced an interim leadership role with confidence and clarity, providing both strategic oversight and a unifying presence that brought stability and cohesion to their team. Additionally, they maintained a recruitment territory, strengthened cross-campus partnerships, and provided thoughtful representation on key committees throughout the college.

In addition to their formal responsibilities, this individual has been a passionate advocate for staff engagement, stepping into the role of Chair of Staff Council with enthusiasm and vision, strengthening the voice of staff in shared governance. They’ve served on multiple search committees, acted as a key liaison to both Athletics and International Admission, and have consistently led with empathy, clarity, and a deep love for Hood College.

 

Amanda Dymek has quietly and powerfully transformed the wellness landscape across campus. From leading mental health outreach initiatives and expanding food access through the Campus Cupboard, to developing community-centered wellness programs, their work reflects both compassion and creativity. They have secured external funding, built strategic partnerships, and provided mentorship to graduate and undergraduate students, all while serving on numerous committees that shape the student experience.

Known for their calm presence, thoughtful leadership, and deep commitment to equity and well-being, they create spaces, both formal and informal, where individuals feel supported, heard, and connected. Whether co-presenting on supporting students in distress, mentoring student researchers, or leaving wellness tips in the most unexpected places, their impact is both far-reaching and deeply personal.

 

Lucky Hirchandez has made a remarkable impact on student clubs, leadership, and belonging at Hood College. Though their formal role is not primarily student-facing, their presence on campus tells a very different story, one of deep engagement, advocacy, and care. As an advisor to the Diversity Coalition, they have empowered student leaders, created spaces of safety and respect, and helped build a stronger, more inclusive community.

Their leadership goes far beyond logistics. They guide with empathy, lift others in moments of uncertainty, and help students recognize their potential, not just within student organizations, but in life beyond campus. From organizing impactful discussions on mental health and equity to ensuring student voices are heard in times of social and political change, they have become a trusted mentor and tireless advocate. 

Mary Ann Kerins Humanitarian Award 2025

This year’s recipient of the Mary Ann Kerins Humanitarian Award is Associate Director of Athletics Jack Mehl. Please join me in congratulating Jack and thanking him for his dedication to serving others.

The nominator shared that Jack:

…exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, empathy, and authenticity. Jack brings meaningful change across multiple facets of the College community.

As an instructor, Jack builds confidence and foundational skills in students who sometimes doubt their academic abilities. This individual not only teaches, but uplifts.

In their role as an Academic Advisor, they are known for their unique blend of empathy and honesty. Students and colleagues often refer to this as “blunt softness.” They have a gift for balancing reassurance with clarity, helping students navigate challenges while encouraging personal responsibility. Their thoughtful and steady presence has been a source of comfort and motivation for countless students facing academic or personal uncertainty.

In addition, the individual pioneered a Graduate Assistant (GA) Mentorship Program within Athletics, aimed at helping GAs acclimate to their roles while also fostering professionalism and confidence. They personally check in with GAs, offering guidance and constructive feedback, and help them see themselves not just as assistants, but as future leaders in the field.

The individual plays a visible and meaningful role in Game Management. They don’t just show up, they connect. Whether through engaging with student-athletes, chatting with families, or coordinating with faculty and staff, they bring genuine care and positive energy to every event. Their presence bridges the gap between athletics and the broader campus, reinforcing a sense of shared purpose and pride.

They demonstrated leadership through the creation and coordination of the SPURS program.  SPURS or Students Providing Understanding and Resources is an innovative student-athlete mentorship initiative designed to give upperclassmen a structured platform to develop leadership skills, mentor first-year students, and ease first-year students’ transition into college life. The individual’s vision and hands-on involvement in the program have fostered a culture of accountability, camaraderie, and growth among student-athletes. SPURS is more than just a leadership opportunity; it is a support system that amplifies the potential of every student.

This individual’s leadership is rooted in relationships. They have cultivated meaningful connections with Facilities, Student Life, Academic Affairs, and Athletics, ensuring a collaborative and inclusive campus environment. This individual models what it means to value every role and every individual, lifting others up and creating space for shared ownership and mutual respect.

Touching Lives Award 2025

I am proud to announce that our very own Sonia Amir-Bowie received the 2025 Touching Lives Award for her role as Program Assistant for the Doctoral Program in Organizational Leadership!  

In this role, she supports both faculty and students, many of whom are seasoned professionals such as executive directors, CEOs, and military personnel, who are pursuing their Doctor of Leadership degree. As the Program Assistant, she often feels her most important role is that of cheerleader and coach. She provides guidance to students, helping them persevere and succeed despite the overwhelming demands of their personal and professional lives.

One of Sonia’s proudest accomplishments is founding the Nonprofit Board Fair, an event that takes place through the doctoral program every other year at Hood College. As someone passionate about service, she sought a way to connect students with the broader community. The nonprofit board fair was organized to create opportunities for doctoral students to join the boards of local nonprofit organizations.