Kevin Jackson, the College of Public Health and Health Professions’ 2019 Employee of the Year, plans and implements events that are engaging, creative and bring the college’s faculty, staff, students and alumni together in meaningful ways.
Jackson, the college’s event planner, was recognized at the PHHP faculty and staff appreciation luncheon (another successful event he planned) on Dec. 12. Throughout the year, Jackson manages a number of events, including the graduating student recognition ceremony, alumni reunion, the PHHP Family Picnic, HPNP Field Day, retreats, luncheons, holiday celebrations and more. The hard work he puts into every event shows, said Stephanie Hanson, Ph.D., the college’s executive associate dean, when presenting the award to Jackson.
“His interpersonal skills are exceptional; he works extremely well with faculty, staff and students both within and outside the college, as well as vendors and administrators,” she said. “And as many of us have experienced, Kevin adds his own creative touch to each event to ensure it is enjoyable for everyone attending.”
Jackson developed a new event this year, the PHHP Faculty and Staff Mixer, held in September at the F-Club at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. The mixer received lots of positive feedback as a fun way for faculty and staff to meet and interact, and requests to make it a recurring event.
Outside of event planning, Jackson has made significant contributions to the leadership and development of the college’s Staff Council. As council chair, he helped plan the first Staff Retreat, created four staff sub-committees to broaden opportunities for staff participation in college governance, and sought ways to recognize and encourage staff development, including the creation of the Staff Enhancement Opportunity program. The program aims to provide staff with the opportunity to seek professional development, certifications or conference experience relevant to their positions by offering financial support to offset travel costs and fees.
“His contributions [to Staff Council] will have a longstanding impact after his period in office comes to a close,” a nominator wrote.
Jackson also serves as the college’s staff representative for the UF Campaign for Charities, Superior Accomplishment Awards and the Health Science Center Security Committee. In all that he does, Jackson is gracious, kind and willing to help his colleagues in any way he can, co-workers said.
“Kevin represents the best of the college and the University of Florida with his spirit of collaboration, eagerness to innovate and recognition that bringing members of our college’s communities together builds a stronger overall college culture,” a nominator wrote.