Outstanding employees earn EKU President’s Excellence Award

RICHMOND (May 21, 2025) — Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) celebrated outstanding faculty and staff members at the annual President’s Excellence Awards on April 23, 2025. Six EKU employees were honored for excellence with a $3,000 cash award, and finalists each received a $1,000 cash reward. EKU also honored those who have achieved 25 and 30 years of service with the university.

“Our success at EKU is driven by the passion and talent of our faculty and staff,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “This year marks a record year for President’s Excellence Award submissions with nominations for faculty and staff doing incredible work across campus and in the region. I’m proud to work alongside exceptional colleagues and celebrate excellence among our campus community.”

The 2025 President’s Excellence Award recipients are Dr. Clint Stivers, Dr. Brenda Caudill, Kyle Willis, Dr. Rae Loftis, Heather Brent and Dr. Judy Jenkins. 

Dr. Clint Stivers, director of the Noel Studio for Academic Creativity, earned the Excellence in Community and Belonging Award. This award celebrates an employee who has positively impacted the campus community and built upon the existing culture of belonging. “I felt honored and delighted to receive the President’s Excellence Award. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to work with so many amazing students, faculty and consultants in the Noel Studio for Academic Creativity,” said Stivers.

Dr. Brenda Caudill, director of Student Health Services, earned the Excellence in Engagement and Hospitality Award. The recipient of this award epitomizes the highest standards of service, turning routine interactions into memorable experiences. “This award means so much to me, not just because of the recognition, but because of what it represents: connection, community and care. This award is not mine alone. I share it with my amazing team in Student Health Services, as well as the faculty, staff and students who bring purpose to our work,” said Caudill. 

Kyle Willis, associate director for utility systems and building climate with Facilities Services, earned the Excellence in Innovation Award, presented to an employee who demonstrates innovative thinking and bold action, elevating and differentiating EKU. A nomination for Willis noted how he exhibits innovation in his work, including the thoughtful integration of nature into daily life on campus. 

Dr. Rae Loftis, assistant vice president for student affairs, earned the Excellence in Student Support Award. A new award for 2025, the Excellence in Student Support Award showcases the highest standards of service and support while creating an engaging and welcoming environment for students. “This award reflects a shared commitment and interconnected efforts to support students. There are countless staff and faculty across campus who are leading truly amazing student support efforts. I will endeavor to keep the spirit of this award alive by collaborating and connecting with the community and advocating for the student experience,” said Loftis.

Heather Brent, associate director for visitor experience and hospitality with Enrollment Management, earned the Emerging Leader Award. This accolade honors individuals in the early stages of their professional journey who portray outstanding qualities such as innovation, vision, teamwork and a commitment to excellence. A nomination for Brent highlighted how her interactions with others have created stronger partnerships both on and off campus. 

Dr. Judy Jenkins, associate professor of chemistry and director of the Center for STEM Excellence, earned the Excellence in Leadership Award. This award focuses on exemplary leadership and those who advance the mission of the university through collaboration and capable management. In a nomination for Jenkins, Tiffany Hamblin, director of Sponsored Programs and an inaugural President’s Excellence Award recipient, said, “In the more than 10 years since she arrived at EKU as an energetic new faculty member, Judy’s enthusiasm for her work has only continued to grow. Her light shines brightest when she is directly engaged with students and when she is leading new ways to support their success.” 

Employees recognized at the ceremony for their 25-year milestone include:

Employees recognized for their 30-year milestone include:

The President’s Excellence Awards honor individual accomplishments while showcasing a shared commitment to innovation, leadership and engagement throughout EKU. Through recognition events such as this, EKU maintains a reputation as the Employer of Choice, where excellence and dedication are valued and celebrated.