In health sciences, the true measure of success is found in the ability to make a difference in the lives of others. During the 2026 Commencement celebrations, the University recognized those students and faculty whose work reflects dedication to care, service, and improving health outcomes for individuals and communities.
Graduate Academic Scholar Award: Precious Williams
Precious Williams’ journey reflects a level of discipline and determination that extends far beyond academic achievement.
While pursuing her Master of Science in Nursing, she balanced a full-time career with an intense academic workload. She often managed multiple assignments while maintaining her professional responsibilities. Her academic journey required sacrifice and focus, as well as pushing forward even when she was exhausted.
To complete a major project, Precious even worked through the night in her office to produce work of which she could be proud. That effort resulted not only in academic success, but in a deeper understanding of what she was capable of achieving.
Despite the intensity of her program, Precious graduated with strong academic distinction and earned a place on the President’s List. Shortly after, she became a clinical coordinator, which affirmed the value of her hard work.
Undergraduate Academic Scholar Award: Mario Houston
After years of military service, Mario Houston saw returning to school as a responsibility to grow his knowledge and refine his skills. He also wanted to prepare for the next phase of his career path in healthcare.
His academic experience was shaped by faculty who challenged him to think beyond surface-level understanding. With their guidance, Mario learned to evaluate information critically, apply evidence-based reasoning and engage with material in a way that extended beyond the classroom.
“The University helped me translate discipline into academic excellence and service into purpose,” he says.
The discipline Mario developed through military service became the foundation for his academic success. His achievement reflects not just hard work, but a clear sense of purpose.
Student Speaker: Detrecia Hagan
Detrecia Hagan’s path to graduation is anything but traditional, and that is what makes it powerful.
Before entering healthcare, she built a successful career in fashion and design, owning a flagship store and working creatively with clients. But her life shifted.
Motherhood and experience led her to reevaluate her path, ultimately guiding her back to healthcare. In healthcare, Detrecia felt she could make a direct and meaningful impact on other people.
“Success, much like healthcare, is never a solo effort,” she notes. Her family played a role in supporting her academic journey. With their aid, Detrecia integrated her courses toward a master’s in health information management into her daily responsibilities.
Detrecia’s story is one of reinvention, resilience and purpose. It is a reminder that a forward path in life is not always linear, but it is always worth pursuing.
Graduate Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Spiro Doukas
Dr. Spiro Doukas has a strong commitment to preparing students for the realities of healthcare practice. His teaching emphasizes critical thinking, accountability and the application of knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Rather than focusing solely on theory, Dr. Doukas challenges students to consider how their decisions will impact patient care, team dynamics and professional outcomes. His courses reflect the complexities of healthcare environments, encouraging students to think beyond merely reciting textbook answers.
This approach to teaching creates a learning experience that is both rigorous and relevant. Students leave his courses not only with knowledge, but with a clearer understanding of how to apply that knowledge in meaningful ways in real-world environments.
Undergraduate Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Carol Hoban
Dr. Carol Hoban’s teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that learning is not one-size-fits-all.
She recognizes that students come to the classroom with different experiences, learning styles and levels of preparation. Her approach reflects that understanding, creating an environment where students can engage with course material in a way that works best for them.
At the same time, she brings passion and enthusiasm to her teaching, qualities that help motivate students to stay engaged and committed to their education.
Dr. Hoban also emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning through her own continued growth and professional development. Her impact extends beyond individual courses, shaping how students approach learning long after they leave the classroom.
Outstanding Faculty Scholarship and Research: Dr. Lauri Byerley
Dr. Lauri Byerley contributes to scholarship and research within the health sciences field, work that strengthens both academic understanding and professional practice.
Her research reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge in ways that have practical application, ensuring that new insights can be translated into improved outcomes in healthcare settings.
In addition to her scholarly work, Dr. Byerley brings that same level of rigor into the classroom, helping students understand the importance of research in shaping the future of their field. Her ability to bridge scholarship and teaching reflects the dual role faculty play in both generating knowledge and preparing the next generation to apply it.
Voices of Impact Award: Dr. Karyn Gallivan
Dr. Karyn Gallivan has had a lasting impact on the University community. Known for her energy, insight, and unwavering commitment to students and colleagues, she has built a reputation as a leader who challenges others to think more deeply and engage more fully.
Her influence extends beyond her own discipline. Dr. Gallivan actively fosters collaboration across academic programs, encouraging partnerships that strengthen both faculty and student experiences. Colleagues often describe her as someone who is not afraid to ask difficult questions that prompt reflection, growth, and better outcomes for both students and faculty.
At the core of her work is a belief in inclusive dialogue. Dr. Gallivan encourages diverse perspectives – even when they are uncomfortable for others to hear – because she understands that meaningful learning often happens at the edge of those conversations.
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