The Edward Kidder Graham Faculty Service Award and the Rebecca Clark Staff Award for Moral Courage annually recognize exceptional faculty and staff service at Carolina.

Carolina will celebrate this year’s recipients, Leah Frerichs and Tamsen Foote, during University Day.

Frerichs, an associate professor in the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health’s health policy and management department, is this year’s Edward Kidder Graham Faculty Service Award recipient.

Her research program is focused on advancing health equity for Black, Native American, Hispanic, rural and youth populations in North Carolina and beyond. She is a nationally regarded expert in using systems science approaches to conduct community-engaged research that centers people and leads to tangible improvements in care and outcomes. Frerichs’ research is responsive to practical community needs and includes issues such as colorectal cancer, physical activity, mental health and substance-exposed pregnancies.

Frerichs’ work at the intersection of research and public health practice is making an impact on the lives of North Carolina youth, especially those from historically underrepresented backgrounds. Frerichs is also an exceptional teacher and mentor who supports students’ growth and development in and out of the classroom.

Foote, director of human resources for the UNC School of Social Work, is this year’s Rebecca Clark Staff Award for Moral Courage recipient. She exemplifies moral courage through her steadfast commitment to fairness, integrity, equity and advocacy on behalf of others.

During ServiceFirst implementation and other organizational transitions, she has become a vital source of support and guidance for staff members navigating uncertainty. Recognizing that some employees are hesitant to voice their concerns openly, Foote ensures their perspectives are heard and thoughtfully considered. She consistently advocates for employees at all levels, helping to foster a culture in which people feel respected, informed and valued.

Foote does not shy away from difficult conversations or complex issues. Instead, she approaches every situation with professionalism, empathy and a steadfast commitment to doing what is right. Whether addressing personnel concerns, improving workplace policies or promoting equitable practices, she demonstrates the conviction to challenge assumptions and pursue solutions that serve the broader good.

Foote leads with humility and compassion. She listens carefully, treats every individual with respect and consistently places the well-being of others at the center of her work.