Celebrating Excellence in Engagement for Research Award
Heather Robertson, Director of Executive Operations for the Behavioral Health Wellness Environments for Living and Learning (BH WELL), has been awarded the 2021-2022 Excellence in Engagement for a Research-Based Team Member award from the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Nursing (CON). This is awarded for demonstrated exceptional contributions as an outstanding team member to promote the mission of the research-based team and advancing engagement within the College of Nursing. This award is representative of her contributions toward advancing BH WELL research efforts and others within the college for approximately 18 years.
The Excellence in Engagement award was presented based on exceptional contributions through forging new relationships and collaborations that directly align with BH WELL’s mission to promote behavioral health wellness among individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges. Heather‘s work is unique in that she works alongside nurse researchers to grow and develop research teams. She also has a joint appointment through UK HealthCare’s management team of Eastern State Hospital where she serves as Director of the Work Learning Program. Dr. Chizimuzo Okoli, faculty researcher and Director of BH WELL describes her value to the team: “Heather has demonstrated exceptional contributions to our research team by combining her passion and expertise toward program growth and supporting our students, staff, faculty, and partners. She encourages others to grow. I am so thankful to have Heather as a colleague and a partner in the work we do at BH WELL.”
The 2021-2022 Excellence in Engagement for Research-Based Team Member award was presented on May 20, 2022 by Dr. Terry Lennie, Senior Associate Dean and Marion E. McKenna Professor in Nursing Leadership for the UK CON.
According to Heather, this award is humbling and motivating. “It’s motivating to know that our work is and will make a difference to people whom we may never meet. Also, working among such a skilled research team is my pleasure.” Heather wishes to thank Dr. Okoli and the nomination review committee for this recognition of her efforts.
