Ann Gallaher Named Global Campus Employee of the Year

Melody DeVere

Ann Gallaher (second from left) accepts the Global Campus employee of the year award from (left to right) Donald Judges, vice provost for distance education; Jamie Loftin, assistant vice provost for distance education administration; and Cheryl Murphy, future vice provost for distance education.

Ann Gallaher has been named employee of the year by the University of Arkansas Global Campus.

Gallaher, the assistant to the vice provost for distance education, was recognized at a September staff meeting for her outstanding coordination of several high-level hiring searches and events, including the successful dean search for the College of Education and Health Professions.

Donald Judges, vice provost for distance education, said Gallaher managed multiple meetings, scheduled interviews, and coordinated campus visits for candidates, all while completing her normal job duties. Judges praised Gallaher's attention to detail and outstanding people skills.

"In addition to her many other responsibilities, Ms. Gallaher also undertook an important support role in two senior-level searches for the University," Judges said. "In each case, candidates and campus stakeholders alike remarked on her efficiency, professionalism, and welcoming presence. Her efforts contributed to the success of both searches."

A co-worker who nominated Gallaher for the award said, "Just being Ann is an outstanding achievement. She makes everyone feel welcome and appreciated. She's amazing."

Gallaher, who joined the Global Campus in 2017, coordinates top-level meetings, organizes unit and campus-wide events, disseminates critical communications, and works closely with directors.

"I am truly honored to have been selected as Global Campus Employee of the Year," Gallaher said. "It was my great fortune to participate in projects this year where I could contribute in a meaningful way. I look forward to continuing in our mission of changing people's lives through education by overcoming time and distance."

Others nominated for employee of the year were Rick Carter, Leonard Ridley and Bellamy Brooks.

The Office of the Vice Provost for Distance Education works with U of A academic colleges and schools to develop and deliver online degree programs, self-paced online courses, and workforce development programs. The Global Campus provides instructional design services, learning technology support, media production services, and assistance with financial administration, recruitment and marketing. The Global Campus also supports the W.E. Manning Memorial Scholarship, which is open to undergraduate and graduate students studying in online degree programs.

The Global Campus awards the employee of the year to recognize outstanding achievement and accomplishments that relate to the unit's goals and the U of A mission. The award recipient receives a commemorative certificate and a monetary award.