AU honors Excellence in Community Engagement award recipients

Augusta University’s Office of Community Engagement recently recognized faculty, staff, students and community partners at the 2025 Excellence in Community Engagement Awards’ annual Pancakes and Partnerships celebration.

The recipients were honored for their contributions, which exemplified the transformative impact of university-community collaboration.

Each honoree has advanced AU’s mission by building partnerships that address community needs, enhance student learning and strengthen civic engagement. Through service-learning, community-based research and sustained collaboration, their work reflects and demonstrates a meaningful connection between the university and the communities it serves.

Award winners were also invited to a luncheon with AU President Russell T. Keen and First Lady Karen B. Keen to celebrate their contributions and discuss future community engagement initiatives.

“It was an honor to celebrate our award winners and nominees who embody AU’s commitment to community engagement, and to connect with community partners as well as community-engaged faculty and staff,” said Amanda Richardson, manager of the Office of Community Engagement. “Together, we are building a culture of collaboration that addresses community needs and enriches student learning through real-world experiences.”

Excellence in Service-Learning Faculty Award

Carrie Reif-Stice, PhD, an assistant professor in the Department of Communication, was recognized for integrating service-learning into her public relations campaigns and social media course. In this course, students partnered with local businesses like 7Brew Coffee, Swank Co. and the Augusta Press. Her work not only equips students with real-world experience but also strengthens community connections, promotes mutual growth through strategic campaign development and fosters connections for emerging professionals, opening doors for future internships and employment.

Excellence in Community Engagement Staff Award

Ketarya Hunt Bass, director of Community Outreach Programs for the Dental College of Georgia, was honored for her longstanding dedication to improving public health and advancing clinical outreach initiatives across Georgia. With more than 15 years of experience, she has led HRSA-funded programs that connect senior dental students with underserved populations, coordinated nearly 100 externships annually and has built strong partnerships across the state. Her work not only enhances student learning but also expands access to dental care in rural and marginalized communities.

Excellence in Community Engagement Undergraduate Student Award

Anna Reeves, an integrated studies major, has balanced full-time study with extraordinary service to the Augusta community. A business owner, parent and active church member, she also volunteers on seven local boards and promotes civic engagement through events and partnerships. In the fall, she played a critical role in the Honors Program Student Association’s crochet drive for neonatal units, securing support from Project Linus to ensure the initiative’s success. She plans to continue serving by teaching and mentoring future business leaders.

Excellence in Community Engagement Graduate Student Award

Mitchell Hanson, an MD-MPH student, was recognized for his leadership in health care advocacy and community-based service. As founder of the Augusta Free Dermatology Clinic and an active participant in student-led clinical programs, he has expanded care access while mentoring others. His work spans patient advocacy, educational outreach and structural improvements in medical education and practice – making him a model of socially responsive health care leadership.

Outstanding Community Partner Award

Nominated by Medical College of Georgia students, the Asociación Latina de Servicios del CSRA has made a significant impact in advancing health equity in the Augusta area. Through its collaboration with AU, ALAS operates a freestanding clinic and supports more than 150 student volunteers and 75 licensed providers. Programs like Peds 2U, the Vision Clinic and the Halo Clinic demonstrate ALAS’s innovative, community-focused approach to care while creating hands-on learning opportunities that shape culturally competent health professionals.