Two UT Southwestern employees, Seema Dave and Kassandra Johnson, took home honors from the Oct. 25 Dallas Admin Awards dinner gala. The Admin Awards recognizes exceptional administrative professionals in nine categories and four finalists were from UTSW.  

Ms. Dave, a Clinical Research Manager in the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, received the organization’s most prestigious award – the Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence.  

“The unbelievable sense of teamwork and shared vision for corporate growth are what make UT Southwestern remarkably exceptional,” Ms. Dave said. “I feel so grateful that I had the opportunity to represent our UT Southwestern family at the Dallas Admin Awards. I share this achievement with our entire administrative staff. It is truly a testament to the strong values and standards set forth by our institution.” 

Her supervisor, Andrea Armstrong, believes the coveted award is a well-deserved win.  

“Seema is a gem and a one-in-a-million administrative professional,” said Ms. Armstrong, Department Administrator. “She is a bright, competent, committed, creative leader. But equally as important, she is a compassionate, friendly, trusted team player. She beautifully exemplifies UTSW’s values, is an exceptional representative of the Department, and is truly a joy to work with every day.” 

Ms. Johnson, an Administrative Coordinator for University Hospitals, received the Administrative Excellence in Healthcare Award.  

“It means so much far beyond words to be valued and appreciated by my peers and leaders of our organization,” Ms. Johnson said. “I am grateful to everyone who made this experience one that will be remembered for a lifetime. It is an indescribable feeling and blessing to be recognized for helping and serving others from a true servant’s heart. I enjoy offering support to all I come in contact with daily to help UTSW staff provide the very best care to those we serve.” 

This award is presented to an administrative professional employed in the health care or wellness industries who demonstrates exceptional competence, health care industry knowledge, outstanding customer service, and a passion for improving the physical and emotional well-being of others. 

“Kassandra embodies everything you could hope for in an administrative professional,” said Cynthia Young, Assistant Vice President University Hospitals Executive Administration. “She has top-notch technical skills, the judgment and experience to solve all sorts of thorny problems, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to excellence. She couples all of that with a warm, positive attitude that transforms any environment she is in and serves as an example to us all.”  

If you see our winners on campus, give them a big congratulations!