News and Events

2025 UTGSM Employees Recognized for Excellence

From left to right: Shannon Brown, Whitney Bean, Jennifer Parris-Horner, and Adam Cogburn

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine honored four exceptional team members during the 19th Annual Employee Excellence Awards. Nominated by their colleagues and supervisors, this year’s recipients were celebrated for their outstanding achievements in job performance, leadership, courtesy and customer service, and community service. The 2025 honorees are Jennifer Parris-Horner (Performance), Whitney Bean (Leadership), Adam Cogburn (Courtesy and Customer Service), and Shannon Brown (Community Service).

Excellence in Job Performance

From left to right: Dean Robert M. Craft, MD and Jennifer Parris-Horner

Jennifer Parris-Horner demonstrated remarkable performance as the program coordinator for the newly established Hospice and Palliative Care Fellowship in the Department of Family Medicine. When she stepped into the role, the program held provisional ACGME accreditation with seven citations. Through her diligence and dedication, Jennifer led the program to full accreditation, earning a special commendation for resolving all existing citations with no new issues identified.

Dr. Adam Tyson, who nominated Jennifer, highlighted her unwavering commitment stating, "Jennifer is always willing to do what it takes, ensuring every detail is addressed and everyone she works with has what they need to succeed. She coordinated a flawless first graduation for our fellow and constantly goes above and beyond to keep the program running smoothly."

Excellence in Leadership

From left to right: Dean Robert M. Craft, MD and Whitney Bean

Whitney Bean, a nurse practitioner at the UT OBGYN Clinic, is recognized for her proactive and solutions-oriented leadership. In addition to her clinical responsibilities, Whitney has initiated and led numerous improvement projects, helped manage clinic operations, and served as a mentor to patients and staff alike.

Her supervisor, Kay Rangnekar, praised her versatility by stating, "Whitney is a doer. She steps up when other providers are out, takes care of patients with compassion, and supports our educational initiatives, especially as a lactation consultant and supportive pregnancy group educator. She is an indispensable leader in our clinic."

Excellence in Courtesy and Customer Service

From left to right: Dean Robert M. Craft, MD and Adam Cogburn

Adam Cogburn, a long-standing member of the GSM Help Desk team, exemplifies outstanding customer service. In 2024, he resolved 96.1% of his assigned tickets on time while managing equipment transitions for renovation projects, all with a calm and positive attitude that earned the appreciation of colleagues across the institution.

Nominated by Alison McNabb and Travis Turner, Adam was praised for his professionalism and mentorship, "Adam not only solves problems efficiently but also ensures those he assists feel confident and supported. He has helped train new team members and is a vital part of our department’s success."

Excellence in Community Service

From left to right: Dean Robert M. Craft, MD and Shannon Brown

Shannon Brown's dedication to service was evident in her personal efforts to aid victims of Hurricane Helene. Taking annual leave, she helped organize donations at Bristol Motor Speedway and personally delivered supplies to affected areas in East Tennessee and North Carolina.

Nominator Hope Wright commended Shannon's compassion by saying, "She used her own resources, traveled to communities in need, and followed up to ensure people received exactly what they lacked. Her actions reflect true selflessness and an unwavering commitment to helping others."

"Each of these individuals embodies the spirit of service, leadership, and excellence that defines our institution. Their dedication not only strengthens our community but also inspires all of us to give our best every day. We’re proud to celebrate their contributions," said Dean Robert M. Craft, MD.

Posted June 17, 2025