The James J. Gallagher Award is presented annually to two employees of UNC’s Frank Porter Graham (FPG) Child Development Institute in recognition of exemplary attitude and commitment to the FPG community. Named for the man who served as the FPG director from 1970 to 1987, the award 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 FPG. This year, FPG is pleased to recognize both National Implementation Research Network (NIRN) Implementation Associate Stephen McKinney, MA, and Human Resources Specialist Natalie Nelson, PHR, SHRM-CP, for their outstanding service to the Institute.

A common thread runs through the nominations submitted by McKinney’s colleagues: he always goes above and beyond what is needed without looking for recognition. Just one sample sentence from one of the anonymous nomination statements, “When I think about ‘support,’ ‘reliable,’ (and) ‘team player,’ the first person that comes to mind is Stephen…He is an amazing team player and is always open to collaboration across projects.”

McKinney, who joined FPG in August 2021, says that it is an immense honor and a bit overwhelming to receive an award named after a man who gave so much to the field and Institute. “This award feels like a testament to my team at NIRN for consistently supporting me and my growth at FPG,” says McKinney. “They deserve so, so much credit; it feels like a team award.”

He adds that his commitment to his work is inspired by his impressive colleagues at NIRN and FPG and knowing that all of their efforts impact children and families who most need support.

Nelson, who also received this award in 2011, says she is grateful to be honored a second time. (Awardees become eligible again five years after winning.) “We have so many talented, committed, and hardworking employees who are doing amazing work, so to be recognized from this esteemed group of colleagues means a lot to me,” she says. “To be recognized for my efforts with this award is the best compliment; I’m flattered and appreciative that someone felt compelled and took the time to nominate me.”

Among the reasons for Nelson’s recognition is her commitment to pay equity, as noted in this nomination: “Natalie Nelson has gone above and beyond to ensure that staff at FPG are recognized with salaries that are competitive in the market, recognize their unique contributions to the FPG mission, and are equitable across the Institute.”

Nelson is committed to advocacy on behalf of FPG employees as she focuses on the positive impact for individuals and their family, especially in navigating the process of a salary increase, promotion, or new hire. Given the myriad HR policies at the state, UNC System, and UNC-CH Office of Human Resource levels, she works to leverage those policies to achieve the desired outcome for FPG employees and supervisors.   

The award committee was comprised of previous recipients of this honor: Advanced Research Scientist Allison De Marco, PhD; Technology Support Analyst Taylor Stiles, BS; Educational Consultant Victoria Waters, MEd; and Advanced Technical Assistance Specialist Tracey West, PhD. They all enjoyed learning about the selfless work that goes on at FPG, largely behind the scenes.

De Marco says, “I was particularly captured by how Natalie’s work to address pay equity will help not only current staff but FPG employees for years to come.” Waters adds, “I am thankful to able to recognize the above and beyond efforts of others as they contribute to the FPG community.” When asked what it means to play a role in continuing the legacy of this award, West says, “Being recognized by your colleagues and co-workers is one of the highest honors you can receive.”