Fall 2025

Congratulations to the Fall 2025 Pure Gold Award Recipients!

August 2025

RESEARCH: Elizabeth Kwon

Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health

"Dr. Elizabeth Kwon’s recently awarded NIH Early Career Research Award is an example of her strong commitment to impactful research. This 5-year career development award, funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, will support Dr. Kwon’s continued development as an independent scientist where she focuses on the interplay among adolescent development, stress, and drug use vulnerability. Sic ‘em, Dr. Kwon!" —Renée Umstattd Meyer

TEACHING: Nicole McAninch

Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Human Sciences and Design

"Dr. McAninch exemplifies teaching excellence through her leadership as chair of HSD’s Teaching Excellence Committee, where she helped design its structure to support colleagues’ growth with a collaborative and caring approach. She leads by example, actively engaging in TEEM events and participating in the Affordable Course Materials Fellows Program to lower student costs. In the classroom, she pairs high standards with genuine care, inspiring students to flourish." —Elise King

SERVICE: Margaret Wooddy

Professor, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation

"Dr. Margaret Wooddy is Program Director for the All-Level Physical Education and HKLS! She serves as Chair of the University Committee on Committees, as a committee member for the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities, and serves as the Waco area Special Olympics basketball tournament director—her "calling to ministry." She volunteers at Baylor track and field events and teaches Sunday School at Columbus Ave. Baptist Church. When I think of service, Dr. Wooddy shines like pure gold." —Andrew Meyer

CULTURE: Anne Boddy

Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Physical Therapy

"Dr. Anne Boddy exemplifies Baylor culture through her energy, compassion, and commitment to student and faculty well-being. She creates a safe, engaging learning environment and actively checks in with students. As Chair of the Faculty Engagement Committee, she fosters belonging and collegiality. Her joyful spirit and care for others are felt across campus and in her community work with the Rebloom Center for Parkinson's support and wellness. She truly leads by example and lifts those around her." —Megan Flores

September 2025

RESEARCH: Kirsten Davin

Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy

"Dr. Davin has had an exceptional year in scholarship. She will present two papers at the 2026 World Federation of Occupational Therapists Congress and has collaborated with colleagues to co- author five peer-reviewed publications this year, with additional manuscripts under review. Her collaborative research on fieldwork innovation and global engagement reaches national and international audiences and advances OT education and practice." —Marian Gillard

TEACHING: Jana Parker

Clinical Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

"Dr. Jana Parker is an outstanding teacher who excels with both undergraduate and graduate students. She brings her expertise to the classroom and clinic, guiding students as they apply knowledge to real-world practice. Known for the rigor of her courses, she challenges students to strive for excellence while equipping them with exceptional depth of learning. Respected and admired, Dr. Parker is a gifted educator and mentor whose impact extends far beyond the classroom." —Michaela Ritter

SERVICE: Kacie Dolezel

Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

"Kacie Dolezel embodies the Pure Gold Award spirit through her unwavering support of colleagues and students. She steps up wherever needed, even amid her own busy schedule. As a new NSSLHA advisor, she furthers student engagement and growth. Whether leading or lending a hand, Kacie brings warmth, reliability, and positivity that strengthens our department and makes her an essential part of the Robbins College community." —Samantha Dvorak

CULTURE: Leslie Goodwin

Academic Program Manager, Department of Physical Therapy

"Leslie Goodwin radiates joy and positivity, fostering a welcoming, communicative environment. She goes above and beyond to support faculty and staff—day or night—and has developed innovative processes to enhance faculty support. Leslie has also dedicated countless hours working with HR to ensure our department remains compliant and follows procedures. She truly embodies the Pure Gold culture." —Teresa Bachman

October 2025

RESEARCH: Nick Frye

Assistant Professor, Department of Human Sciences and Design

"Dr. Nick Frye has exhibited exceptional research skills since coming to Baylor University. He is regarded as the expert in quantitative analyses, not just at Baylor but across the country. Not only has he been published in the seminal journals in the field, but he recently received the prestigious NCFR Olsen Grant, which is awarded to only one individual in the field of Human Development and Family Science. He sets the standard for quality research, and I am happy to nominate him for this award." —Mickey Langlais

TEACHING: Regine Rossi

Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Therapy

"Regine Rossi is an outstanding teacher and invaluable faculty resource. With a PhD in education (rare among PT faculty!) she has elevated teaching across our program. Kind, patient, and deeply knowledgeable, she speaks eloquently and passionately about pedagogy. Her enthusiasm inspires colleagues and students alike, and her students appreciate the rich learning they gain from her expertise and experience. Her impact truly strengthens our entire academic community." —Megan Flores

SERVICE: Davis Deaton

Office Manager, Department of Human Sciences and Design

"Davis Deaton joined our department in September 2024 as an Administrative Assistant. Over the next eight months, as our Office Manager Karen King transitioned to a remote role and then retirement, Davis began picking up duties and handling restructuring while identifying areas where efficiencies could be implemented. He was considerate in his approach to consult with all stakeholders and implement all feedback. He shows a true Christian spirit and a true love for the Baylor family!" —Tina Dekle

CULTURE: Ron Smyers

Academic Advisor, Office of Advising

"Ron creates a culture of excellence and commitment to student success. His work on retention, where challenges require difficult conversations and persistence, has been impressive. His extra effort recently secured financial help that allowed three of his students to return. Students have cited his “genuine concern” and “attentiveness.” Ron has created a culture rooted in Colossians 3:23, and "Student Flourishing" is a goal for each day. It is with sincere enthusiasm that I nominate Ron Smyers." —Nadine Welch

November 2025

RESEARCH: Barbara Doucet

Clinical Associate Professor and Post-professional OTD Program Director, Department of Occupational Therapy

"While serving as the Post-professional OTD program director, Dr. Barbara Doucet also continues to engage in impactful research aimed at facilitating optimal motor recovery in persons with stroke and Parkinson's through therapeutic methods. This summer, she was awarded the Parkinson's Foundation 2025 Community Grant to support this impactful work through her project titled 'Walking & Talking & Flourishing: Optimizing Well-Being in Persons with Parkinson's.' Sic 'em, Dr. Doucet!" —Renée Umstattd Meyer

TEACHING: Mickey Langlais

Assistant Professor of Child and Family Studies, Department of Human Sciences and Design

"Dr. Mickey Langlais exemplifies excellence in teaching through his passion, authenticity, and deep care for students. He creates a lively and welcoming classroom where students feel valued, supported, and inspired to learn. Known for his empathy and clarity, he connects academic concepts to real-life experiences, making learning meaningful and memorable. He sets a high standard for teaching excellence and is consistently described as the best professor students have ever had." —Jay Yoo

SERVICE: Zach Dorrell

Lab Coordinator, Departments of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy

"Zach Dorrell is the backbone of our immersion labs, ensuring everything runs smoothly. He juggles schedules, maintains equipment, and is always available—even after hours and on weekends. He improves systems for efficiency and approaches every task with positivity and humor. Zach’s dependable service and strong work ethic make him an invaluable member of our team. His behind-the-scenes dedication makes a visible difference every day." —Megan Flores

CULTURE: Nicki Brown

Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

"Dr. Brown is an exceptional candidate for the Pure Gold Culture Award. She fosters a culture of faith, belonging, and excellence through intentional mentorship, collaborative leadership, and infectious joy. A supportive and welcoming colleague, she uplifts others and creates spaces where everyone feels valued and inspired." —Kelcie Dao