The UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) is pleased to announce that Social Research Specialist Gisele Crawford, MAA, and Applications Specialist Programmer Keil Jones are the 2026 recipients of the James J. Gallagher Award, an annual honor recognizing two permanent, full-time FPG employees for their exceptional contributions and dedication to the Institute and its community.

Named for James J. Gallagher, who served as FPG’s director from 1970 to 1987, the award celebrates employees who go above and beyond their formal roles to strengthen FPG’s workplace environment, support colleagues and partners, and help advance the Institute’s mission.

This year’s honorees were selected for the many ways they serve as helpers, problem-solvers, mentors, collaborators, and steady sources of support across FPG. Nominations for Crawford and Jones highlighted not only their professional expertise, but also the care, generosity, and commitment they bring to their work with colleagues, students, project teams, and partners.

Keil Jones: responsive, reliable, and always ready to help

Jones works closely with members of his FPG team and provides direct technical assistance to local evaluation partners supporting early care and education programs across the country. Those who nominated him described his responsiveness, reliability, and initiative as central to the team’s strong reputation among partners.

One partner called Jones “a huge asset to our network,” while others praised his ability to respond quickly, solve problems thoughtfully, and make challenging situations easier through his patience, professionalism, and positive attitude. Nominators emphasized that Jones does not simply complete tasks—he follows through until issues are fully resolved and consistently helps others do their jobs successfully.

Jones’s contributions also extend to mentoring and community-building. He gave hands-on coding support to McKinney Scholars, whose evaluation of their project rotation rated the coding sessions as the most valuable activity. Colleagues also noted the many informal ways he supports the FPG community, from celebrating milestones and offering comfort during difficult times to sharing his award-winning desserts at the chili cook-off.

“It means a great deal to me, and is very gratifying to know that my coworkers and colleagues think highly of me, and that they appreciate and recognize my work at FPG with this award,” said Jones.

Upon receiving the award, Jones shared, “It means a great deal to me, and is very gratifying to know that my coworkers and colleagues think highly of me, and that they appreciate and recognize my work at FPG with this award.”

Gisele Crawford: a trusted mentor, collaborator, and community builder

Crawford has been part of the FPG community for nearly 30 years, and nominators described her as a trusted colleague whose leadership, expertise, and steady presence have strengthened projects, teams, and the Institute as a whole.

Across multiple nominations, colleagues praised Crawford for mentoring others, helping teams think through challenges, and working across projects in ways that prevent silos and foster connection. Her expertise in observational methods in early care and education classrooms, thoughtful leadership, and dependable approach make her a valued resource to colleagues and partners alike.

Nominators also emphasized Crawford’s role in supporting community and belonging at FPG. She was described as “the glue” for the Educare team, a consistent presence at events, and an active contributor to efforts that strengthen FPG’s workplace culture. Her support for McKinney Scholars, her commitment to continuous improvement, and her care for colleagues reflect the spirit of the Gallagher Award.

“People are at the heart of all organizations, and Gisele is one of the people at FPG that make our Institute such an amazing place to work,” one nominator wrote.

“It’s difficult to put into words how much this honor means to me.  I’ve always felt incredibly lucky to work at FPG, not least because of how my life has been enriched by knowing the brilliant and outstanding people here.  I am very proud and also deeply humbled to have earned the esteem of such fine colleagues,” said Crawford.

Upon receiving the award, Crawford shared, “It’s difficult to put into words how much this honor means to me.  I’ve always felt incredibly lucky to work at FPG, not least because of how my life has been enriched by knowing the brilliant and outstanding people here.  I am very proud and also deeply humbled to have earned the esteem of such fine colleagues.”

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The 2026 Gallagher Award committee, composed of previous recipients of the honor, included Jessica Amsbary, Tom Leggett, Erica Nouri, and Sarah Wackerhagen.

FPG congratulates Crawford and Jones on this well-deserved recognition and thanks the Gallagher Award committee members for their service in helping honor colleagues whose contributions strengthen the Institute as a whole—and our community within it.