School of Health Sciences celebrates faculty and staff with annual awards

Faculty and staff in the School of Health Sciences gathered to celebrate the 2023-24 recipients of the SHS Excellence Awards. The following awards were presented:

SHS Staff Excellence

The Staff Excellence Award at Elon University’s School of Health Sciences acknowledges a full-time staff member who significantly advances the school’s mission and departmental goals.

This year, Gytis Balilionis received the honor for his exceptional contributions to the Anatomy Laboratory and Anatomical Gift Program Donor Care.

Since 2011, Balilionis has played a pivotal role in supporting human anatomy teaching and expanding the Anatomical Gift Program. He is known for diligent management of laboratory spaces and equipment, along with overseeing donor preparation and care.

Balilionis’s unwavering dedication ensures the safety and dignity of donors while embodying the school’s mission of developing empathetic healthcare professionals. His integrity, work ethic and compassionate approach make him an invaluable member of the community, truly deserving of this recognition.

SHS Excellence in Service, Leadership, and Collaboration

The Excellence in Service, Leadership, and/or Collaboration Award at Elon University’s School of Health Sciences recognizes a full-time community member who has significantly advanced the institution through their service, leadership and collaboration efforts.

This year, Paula DiBiasio, associate professor of physical therapy education, was honored for her remarkable dedication spanning 25 years. Her leadership on various committees and university-wide initiatives, including IPE, DEI, and Student Review and Evaluation, showcases her commitment to advancing strategic priorities.

DiBiasio earned the Residence Life Julie Justice Faculty Engagement Award for 2021-22 for her impactful contributions as a Faculty-in-Residence in the Danieley Neighborhood, where she fosters student relationships, mentoring, and supports first-generation students. Her efforts to ensure the provision of equitable healthcare by promoting students’ development of intercultural competencies and global learning experiences is evident in her leadership of the Global Learning Opportunities Program, which earned her the Isabella Cannon Global Education Center Exemplary Faculty Award in 2023.

DiBiasio’s unwavering dedication to student success and her efforts to work collaboratively to enhance institutional resources demonstrate her profound impact on both the local and global student experience, making her a deserving recipient of this award.

SHS Excellence in Scholarship

The Excellence in Scholarship Award at Elon University’s School of Health Sciences acknowledges a full-time community member who demonstrates outstanding scholarly achievements that contribute to advancing disciplinary knowledge or supporting teaching, reflecting Elon’s Teacher-Scholar model. Crystal Ramsey, assistant professor of physical therapy education, is this year’s recipient, recognized for seamlessly integrating research with teaching and mentoring.

Her diverse scholarly pursuits, including traditional research, innovative pedagogy, and collaborative efforts, highlight the multifaceted nature of academic scholarship.

Ramsey’s extensive portfolio encompasses peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and poster sessions, showcasing her versatility and depth across various scholarly activities. Notably, she excels in securing substantial funding, which underscores her strategic leadership and commitment to advancing research and nurturing emerging scholars.

In essence, Ramsey’s scholarly journey exemplifies excellence within Elon University’s School of Health Sciences.

SHS Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring

The Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring Award at Elon University’s School of Health Sciences honors a full-time community member who demonstrates outstanding teaching and mentoring qualities.

This year, Tracey Thurnes, associate professor of physician assistant studies, received the accolade for her exceptional dedication to student success and her ability to form strong connections with learners. For over a decade, Thurnes has positively impacted students at every academic level, particularly through her role as Director of Accelerated Pathways. Under her guidance, the program has thrived, providing students with unique opportunities for growth and development.

Thurnes’s influence extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by her innovative teaching methods and mentorship that foster critical thinking and leadership skills crucial for future healthcare professionals. Her commitment to advancing medical education and improving patient care is evident in her scholarly activities and collaborations with colleagues and students. Testimonials from colleagues, students, and alumni highlight her profound impact on their academic and professional journeys. Thurnes exemplifies excellence in teaching and mentoring, deserving of recognition for her outstanding contributions to the academic community.

Dean Maha Lund concluded the ceremony by expressing optimism for the future and reiterated the school’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and service. The event concluded with a reception, allowing attendees to mingle, network, and reflect on the collective accomplishments that continue to propel the School of Health Sciences to new heights of success.