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Spreading cheer in the new year

IUPUI faculty, staff and students were invited to “spread some cheer” before winter break, by nominating a pupil, peer or professor to win a surprise prize.

More than 250 nominations were submitted.

One person was selected in each category: faculty, staff, undergraduate and graduate. The winners received a gift basket full of IUPUI-branded gear, including a T-shirt, tumbler, keychain, socks, stuffed jaguar and more.

Meet the recipients and read the winning nominations below.

Faculty

Kellie Cranfill is program director and assistant clinical professor for the Radiologic and Imaging Sciences Programs at the IU School of Medicine. Professor Kellie Cranfill, front row left, stands with members of the Radiologic and Imaging Scie... Professor Kellie Cranfill, front row left, stands with members of the Radiologic and Imaging Sciences Programs. Photo by Sara Griffin, Indiana University

Donna Clark, the undergraduate programs specialist with the programs, submitted the following nomination on behalf of the unit:

“Professor Kellie Cranfill is a dedicated educator who has progressed up the ranks from adjunct professor to program director. Her accomplishments and commitment have been rewarded with numerous promotions over the years, culminating in the honor of succeeding our retiring director in 2021.

“The newly appointed leader took the reins at the same time COVID nearly shut down the nation, but medical education must continue. Her leadership during this frightful time, her adaptability to the rapid and continuous changes, and her concern for and encouragement to her students and educational team lead me to nominate her. She deserves to receive some cheer because she is always giving it to others, and I suspect she is ‘empty’ before doling out some for herself!”

Staff

Jackie Whitney, an academic advisor in the School of Education, has been with IUPUI for 43 years. Two colleagues nominated her. Jackie Whitney, third from left, stands with School of Education colleagues. Photo by Brayden Bri... Jackie Whitney, third from left, stands with School of Education colleagues. Photo by Brayden Bridgeman, Indiana University

Emily Thien, coordinator for data, assessment and scheduling in the School of Education, wrote:

“Jackie is one of the most consistent and hardworking people in the School of Education. She always goes above and beyond and volunteers her time to make students’ experiences exceptional. She goes out of her way to greet others in the office and is one of the first people that faculty, staff and students can turn to if they need a question answered.

“On top of her load at work, she loves her nieces, nephews and aging parents and goes out of her way to chauffeur them around town, support their schooling and health needs, and care for them. Jackie is a joy to know and work with.”

Jodi Norton, academic advisor in the School of Education, wrote:

“I’ve worked with Jackie now for well over 10 years. She is always so helpful and willing to go above and beyond to help any student, staff or faculty. She’s been with IUPUI for over 40 years and is a huge asset to our campus.”

Graduate

David Wallington is a second-year Ph.D. student in the School of Science. He began his graduate studies at IUPUI in 2021, after earning a Bachelor of Science in earth sciences from the University of Minnesota Duluth. David Wallington, right, and Catherine Macris. Photo by Sara Griffin, Indiana University David Wallington, right, and Catherine Macris. Photo by Sara Griffin, Indiana University

Catherine Macris, assistant professor in the School of Science, submitted the nomination:

“David is a graduate student in the Department of Earth Sciences. He has always been willing to help anyone in the department in whatever way he can. This year, he took on the task of organizing and facilitating a new group of undergrad and grad students who call themselves the Earth Sciences Community Builders. He helps this group plan professional and social activities aimed at enriching the experiences and culture of our department.”

Undergraduate

Claire Mehling is an IUPUI Chancellor’s Scholar and student-athlete. She has been selected to the Horizon League’s academic honor roll and named to IUPUI’s Academic Advisor’s List multiple semesters. Claire Mehling, left, and Madison Fry. Photo by Sara Griffin, Indiana University Claire Mehling, left, and Madison Fry. Photo by Sara Griffin, Indiana University

Teammate and friend Madison Fry submitted the nomination:

“Claire is a double major in biology and medical humanities, runs track and cross country for IUPUI, and works part time as a medical scribe. She also volunteers once a week for three hours.

“She is a senior and just applied to medical schools and is waiting to hear back. This is very stressful for her. Because of this I think a surprise gift will add some extra cheer, as all of the stress with the end of semester and medical school is weighing on her.”