Transylvania staff and faculty were honored for their dedication to the university and local community at Thursday’s University Recognition Awards.
President Brien Lewis presented the honors during a luncheon in the Campus Center, where employees were also recognized for their years of service.
2025 Presidential Awards
Community Service
Amy Bridges, director of advancement services, has been supporting the local community as a foster parent for a total of four children (with two of her own), “going above and beyond her role as a leader” in the alumni and development office, according to her nomination. “She is a true testament to creating ‘bold paths.'”
Outstanding Newcomers
Brian Campbell, IT director, enterprise solutions, was lauded for saving staff “time and tears” through his service to the university. “Brian has made a significant impact on our campus community through his dedication, expertise and problem-solving abilities.”
Elaina Henderson, administrative assistant (humanities), “hit the ground running at Transy,” her nomination said. “She’s always looking for better ways to do things. And she is amazingly, unfailingly kind, thoughtful, generous and positive in spirit.”
Outstanding Staff Member
Leonard Dansby was praised in his nomination for his positive energy and work ethic. “His dedication to his job, athletics and to the students is unquestionable, and he has the unique ability to always lift up those around him.”
Mosaic
Krissalyn Love, who is a member of the president’s staff, was commended for her incredible work, including her “programming to support the inclusion of students, faculty and staff.” In addition to being generous with her time, “she makes everyone feel heard — and I have never heard her say ‘no’ to a request,” a nominator said.
Spirit of Transylvania
Business administration professor Jeff Hopper ’94 and men’s basketball coach Brian Lane ’90 won this year’s Spirit of Transylvania award.
“Jeff has done amazing things for Transy within the BA program and puts the students at the forefront of all he does — whether that is participating on a committee, representing them and the university at NCAA meetings as the faculty athletic representative, or as he is teaching and creating new major tracks within BA,” his nomination said.
Lane’s campus engagement was also noted, as he “truly cares about Transylvania, and it shows in all that he does.” He’s more than a coach, pitching in wherever he’s needed — from picking up litter on his walks across campus to promoting the school to prospective students.
Top photo: Pictured (l-r) are Elaina Henderson, Amy Bridges, Jeff Hopper, Brien Lewis, Leonard Dansby and Brian Campbell (awardees not pictured are Brian Lane and Krissalyn Love).