News Summary
The Asheville Athletics Department held its third annual awards luncheon to honor outstanding staff members for their dedication and hard work. Four awards recognized individuals for their contributions in categories such as inclusion, excellence, servant leadership, and dedication, reflecting the department’s commitment to fostering a culture of distinction aligned with its strategic goals. Director Janet R. Cone emphasized the importance of celebrating staff achievements to inspire ongoing collaboration and success within the athletics community.
Asheville Athletics Department Celebrates Staff Excellence at Annual Awards Luncheon
The Asheville Athletics Department recognized outstanding staff at its third annual awards luncheon held on May 23, 2025, at Rye Knot. Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone announced the recipients of this year’s awards, celebrating their hard work and dedication to the department and its student-athletes.
Award Highlights
This year’s awards featured four categories, each honoring individuals who exemplify the values of the department:
- Inclusion Award: Dr. Laura Jones, Coordinator of Bulldog Mental Health Services, was honored for her efforts in promoting inclusivity and mental health support within the athletics department.
- Excellence Award: Dani Nicosia, Assistant Athletic Director for Digital and Creative Branding, received recognition for her innovative approach and contributions to the department’s branding strategies.
- Servant Leader Award: Erin Spence, Senior Woman Administrator and Assistant Athletics Director for Compliance, was awarded for her leadership and support of her colleagues and student-athletes.
- Dedication Award: Rebecca Nelms, Assistant Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Success, was acknowledged for her commitment to enhancing the success and well-being of student-athletes.
Focus on Culture and Strategy
The awards align with the Bulldogs’ strategic plan, “Dream Bigger. Achieve More.” which underlines the department’s commitment to establishing a culture of distinction. This event serves not only as a celebration but also as a reinforcement of the values and aspirations within the athletics community.
Event Significance
The annual luncheon highlights the importance of recognizing the achievements of staff members who contribute to the successful functioning of the athletics department. By honoring the dedication and excellence of these individuals, the Asheville Athletics Department aims to inspire others and foster an environment of collaboration and achievement.
Looking Ahead
As the Asheville Athletics Department continues to strive for excellence, the recognition of staff through such events will play a crucial role in motivating team members and setting a high standard for future accomplishments. With a focus on student-athlete success and community engagement, the department aims to build a legacy of distinction that aligns closely with its strategic goals.
Conclusion
The third annual awards luncheon was a testament to the commitment and hard work exhibited by the Asheville Athletics Department staff. By celebrating individual accomplishments, the department reinforces its mission to foster a positive and impactful athletic environment for its student-athletes and staff alike.
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- UNC Asheville Athletics Announces Third Annual Staff Awards
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Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
