The James J. Gallagher Award is presented annually to two employees of UNC’s Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) in recognition of exemplary attitude and commitment to the FPG community. The award, which is named for the man who served as the FPG director from 1970 to 1987, is open to permanent, full-time employees who demonstrate a willingness to perform above and beyond the call of duty and enhance the overall climate of the Institute.

This year, FPG is pleased to recognize both Program Assistant Barbara Lowery and Senior Research Scientist Ann Sam, PhD, for their outstanding service to the Institute.

Across the many nominations for Lowery, a theme rang true―everyone spoke of her keen ability to problem solve, her can-do attitude and dependability, her drive to learn new things, and her dedication to ensure success for her colleagues. Moreover, each nomination highlighted how she is incredibly positive in all that she does. Here is a small sampling from just two of Lowery's nominations:   

"No matter what the focus is of the project, Barbara functions as the oil in the engine, ensuring that everything runs smoothly ... She exemplifies the kind of positive attitude and hardworking spirit that inspires and motivates everyone around her."

"Her can-do attitude and thirst for learning new skills and tools―even if it takes her out of her comfort zone―have been so valuable to our work. Above all, it has always been a joy to work with Barbara. Despite being spread across numerous projects, she cares deeply about the people whom she interacts and works with and takes time to get to know each and every one of us."

When asked what receiving the Gallagher Award means to her, Lowery had this to say:

“I work with multiple projects and each one of them is different. At times these projects can be time consuming, but they all have one thing in common―they all work at FPG to help make children’s lives better. So, it is easy for me to go above and beyond when there are children involved. I thank each one of you who nominated me for this award; I really do appreciate it very much.”

A common thread appeared throughout Sam’s nominations as well—those who nominated her all highlighted how she embodies the spirit of this award through her steadfast dedication to FPG going above and beyond for both the Institute and the people within it.

Many spoke to Sam’s positive attitude, care for and support of her colleagues, and her ability to make connections and build and foster relationships—as seen in this nomination excerpt:

“In her role as the head of the research and evaluation division, Ann did so much to bring together the research community at FPG and created an environment of engagement and support that has been challenging to achieve since the beginning of the pandemic … She is a true connector in our community and has established relationships with so many people, across divisions and roles, and really brings people together in meaningful and productive ways.”

When asked what receiving the Gallagher Award means to her, Sam shared, “It is a tremendous honor to receive the Gallagher Award. I am fortunate to work at FPG with so many amazing and wonderful colleagues. Being nominated by fellow FPG colleagues makes receiving this award even more special.”

The Gallagher Award committee is comprised of previous recipients of this honor, and this year included: Advanced Research Scientist Allison De Marco, PhD; Human Resources Specialist Natalie Nelson, PHR, SHRM-CP; Technology Support Analyst Taylor Stiles, BS; and Educational Consultant Victoria Waters, MEd.