Celebrating Excellence: UT Health Science Center Communicators Bring Home Three Prestigious Awards from Statewide Conference!

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center’s Office of Communications and Marketing recently shone at the 2025 Tennessee College Public Relations Association (TCPRA) conference in Chattanooga, winning three awards, including a prestigious first-place honor.

This annual event, held from May 21-23, saw participation from various colleges across Tennessee, with a record 421 entries vying for recognition. Among the awarded entries, UT Health’s communication team scored a gold award for media relations, earned a silver for feature writing, and snagged a bronze for printed reports.

Chancellor Peter Buckley praised the team for their impactful storytelling. He highlighted their role in showcasing UT’s dedication to health and community through innovative medical procedures and expert faculty.

One standout achievement was the promotion of the “Jaw in a Day” surgery, the first of its kind in Tennessee. Led by Strategic Communications Specialist Chris Green, the team worked closely with Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, resulting in over 100 media outlets covering the story. This widespread media attention reached an audience of more than 21 million, showcasing the team’s ability to effectively communicate groundbreaking medical advancements.

This surgery involved a complex, single-procedure reconstruction, drastically improving the patient’s quality of life while reducing the need for multiple surgeries. The story not only highlighted surgical innovation but also the collaborative spirit of UT Health professionals.

Reisser, the strategic communications manager, also received a silver award for her feature on Dr. Terri Finkel’s successful advocacy for a new law on genetic testing for children. This law aims to provide quicker diagnoses of rare genetic conditions, enabling timely treatments that could save lives.

The team’s annual report for 2023-24 received a bronze award. It illustrated the university’s accomplishments in areas like academics, research, and community service, emphasizing the collective efforts of faculty and students.

The awards were evaluated by a panel of experts from various fields, including public relations and healthcare communications. This recognition underscores the ongoing commitment to excellence within UT Health Science Center’s communication strategies.

At the TCPRA conference, Dr. Jessi Gold addressed another crucial aspect: the mental health of students. Her talk highlighted the urgent need for better communication regarding mental wellness in higher education—a topic that resonates with many, especially post-pandemic. With increasing awareness of mental health issues, universities are now focusing on ways to support student well-being effectively.

The success at the TCPRA reflects the dedication and creativity of the communication team, echoing a broader trend in healthcare communications to not only inform but also connect with the community meaningfully.

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