University of the Cumberlands Honors 2026 Faculty and Staff Award Recipients and Retirees

University of the Cumberlands is grounded in a mission to provide quality, affordable education to students from all backgrounds. Serving students well takes more than checking boxes or going through the motions—it requires dedication: a daily commitment to excellence in every task and process.

Each year, Cumberlands honors faculty and staff who show up ready to transform lives. Whether serving as a professor in the classroom or an accountant in an administrative office, every role contributes to keeping the university running and fulfilling its mission.

During this year’s faculty and staff event, Cumberlands administration recognized new retirees, faculty and staff career milestones, and recipients of the 2026 faculty and staff awards.

Honoring Our 2026 Retirees

In 2026, four faculty members—Ms. Geraldine Allen, Dr. Tom Frazier, Dr. Gina Pariser, and Dr. Amelia Phillips—marked the conclusion of their careers at University of the Cumberlands.

Ms. Geraldine Allen taught art at Cumberlands from 1995 to 2025. She cherishes the friendships and memories she made during her time as both a student and faculty member. In retirement, Ms. Allen plans to spend time with her children and grandchildren, continue enjoying her favorite activities, and pursue new adventures.

Dr. Tom Frazier, professor of English, has served University of the Cumberlands for 50 years. His roles have included director of promotions and faculty member in the English Department. He has also taught courses at off-campus centers, in the Insights Program, in the Mining Technology program, and in the university’s London and Dublin summer programs. Throughout his career, he received the Honored Professor Award, the Excellence in Teaching Award, and the John Fuqua Award for Teaching. In retirement, Dr. Frazier plans to complete ongoing research projects and travel with his wife, Dr. Jolly Sharp.

Dr. Gina Pariser joined Cumberlands in 2022 as associate program director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, bringing more than 15 years of clinical and teaching experience. She worked alongside colleagues to develop Cumberlands’ hybrid accelerated DPT program and helped create service-learning opportunities such as the annual Physical Therapy Mobility Assessment and the All Rise Fall Prevention Workshop. In retirement, Dr. Pariser plans to spend more time with family, continue contributing as an adjunct faculty member, and remain involved in community-based exercise programs for older adults.

Dr. Amelia Phillips began her career at Cumberlands in 2017 and officially became an associate professor of CIS/IT in January 2018. Her connection to the university began through Dr. Donnie Grimes, executive vice president for workforce development, whom she met at a conference. During her time at Cumberlands, she has enjoyed helping establish residency programs at Highland College in Seattle.

After recognizing these esteemed faculty members, Cumberlands administration honored outstanding current faculty and staff nominated by students and colleagues and selected by a committee of peers. The 2026 University of the Cumberlands award recipients are as follows:

Staff Community Service Award – Sandra Jones

The Staff Community Service Award is presented to a full-time staff member who demonstrates dedication to the university community and exemplifies the institution’s values through service and leadership.

Sandra Jones began her career at Cumberlands in 1991. Over the past 35 years, she has served in various roles, including her current position as registrar assistant. She consistently goes above and beyond to support students and represents the university with professionalism and integrity. Outside of her work at Cumberlands, she serves her community by delivering meals to those in need and grieving families.

Excellence in Teaching Award – Dr. Gary Patton

The Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes a faculty member who demonstrates a strong commitment to student learning, academic rigor, and innovative teaching practices.

This year’s recipient, Dr. Gary Patton, creates an environment where complex material becomes accessible and meaningful. Student nominators frequently noted his ability to build confidence, his respectful engagement with diverse perspectives, and his ability to connect real-world insights to classroom learning.

Dr. Patton is a scholar in counseling ethics and neuroanatomy and a licensed professional counselor with extensive experience in hospital settings. He has served on the West Virginia Board of Examiners in Counseling and has presented nationally on research ethics, legal issues, and storytelling in clinical practice. His teaching has been recognized by the Kentucky Counseling Association, which named him Counselor Educator of the Year.

William T. Miles Memorial Award for Community Service – Dr. Ryan Hanley

The William T. Miles Memorial Award for Community Service honors a faculty member who has made a significant contribution to the community in a manner consistent with university goals.

Dr. Ryan Hanley exemplifies service both on campus and beyond. At the university level, he contributes to key committees, including Catalog and Curriculum, General Education, and Academic Appeals. He is also actively involved in Campus Ministries through men’s ministry, worship services, conferences, and mission opportunities.

Within his department, Dr. Hanley has fostered connection through initiatives such as a weekly “coffee hour,” designed to build community, encourage collaboration, and promote engagement beyond the classroom. Outside of campus, he remains actively involved in service through his local church.

Cumberlands remains committed to recognizing the people who make its mission possible each day. Through their dedication to service, teaching, and community impact, these faculty and staff members reflect the heart of University of the Cumberlands and its ongoing pursuit of excellence.