The Usha Kundu, MD College of Health awarded community members for their achievements at its inaugural Community and Alumni Awards during the college’s 10-year anniversary celebration, held on May 20 at the Pensacola Museum of Art. The College also announced a $25,000 gift from family and friends of UKCOH’s founding dean, Dr. Ermalynn Kiehl. The “Founding Dean, Dr. Ermalynn Kiehl Excellence Endowment” will provide scholarship and operational support for the College.
“As we celebrate our College’s 10th anniversary, it’s fitting that we recognize the individuals who have helped shape our mission and extend our impact,” said Dr. Dave Bellar, dean of the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health. “These award recipients exemplify what it means to lead with purpose and serve with compassion. We are proud to honor their achievements and grateful for the difference they continue to make in the lives of others.”
The following recipients were awarded:
- Rep. Michelle Salzman received the Community Impact Award, which recognizes an external company, organization, agency or individual who has significantly impacted the healthcare field through outstanding community engagement.
- Will Condon, president of Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola, was awarded the Healthcare Leadership Award, designed to recognize an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the healthcare field.
- Joyce Nichols, CNO at Baptist Health Care, was named the Alumni of the Year. The award recognizes an alumnus who has demonstrated significant achievements and leadership in healthcare.
- The Rising Alumni Leader Award was presented to Hong Potomski for her significant contributions to the field and display of exceptional community service early in her healthcare career.
- Honorary awards were given to Dr. Usha and Dave Kundu and Kiehl.
“To have this kind of opportunity at this University, to end your career at a place like UWF – it was certainly a blessing to my career,” Kiehl said. “I can’t wait to see what comes next. I hope this community works very hard to keep the spirit of this University. This University is special.”
For more information about the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health, visit uwf.edu/ukcoh.
English (US) ·