The Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) is pleased to announce the 2026 Engagement Award Recipients: The Award for Faculty Service to AUPHA; the Award for Engagement with AUPHA – Established Program Member; and the Award for Engagement with AUPHA – New Program Member. Since 2018, AUPHA has awarded member programs and faculty for their service and engagement with AUPHA. More information about these awards may be found here.
The recipient of the Award for Faculty Service to AUPHA is Jillian Harrington, PhD, Assistant Professor at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. The Award recognizes an individual for significant accomplishments within a single year. “AUPHA has been instrumental in shaping my career in health administration education, and I am honored to give back to a community that has supported my professional growth for so many years,” said Dr. Harrington.
The recipient of the Award for Engagement with AUPHA – Established Program Member is The Ohio State University’s Full Master’s program. This award recognizes significant accomplishments within a year across a program that has been a member for ten or more years. “We are grateful to be recognized by AUPHA and appreciate the many opportunities to engage, collaborate, learn, and share together,” said Kelly J. Scheiderer, RHIA, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Practice and Program Director.
The recipient of the Award for Engagement with AUPHA – New Program member is the University of West Florida’s Associate Baccalaureate Program. This award also recognizes significant accomplishments across a program that has been an AUPHA member for five or less years. “AUPHA brings unmatched value through connection, professional development, and a community of peers committed to excellent health administration education, and our department is fortunate to have faculty like Karen Valaitis and Mark Diana whose leadership and service help turn that value into real momentum for our program and students,” said Angela Maples Hahn, PhD, Department Chairperson and Associate Professor of Clinical Practice in the program.
Congratulations to these deserving recipients.