06/12/18
HAYS, Kan. – Gina Smith, director of the Fort Hays State University Kelly Center, was recently honored with the 2017-2018 University of Kansas Field Education Margo Award for Excellence in Field Instruction-Preceptor.

“Gina is warm, personable, humorous and uplifting,” said Jessica Albin, Hays, the student who nominated Smith for the award. “She has been available to me during our scheduled weekly supervision times (which she did not miss or reschedule even a single time) and anytime throughout the week that I have needed to consult with her.”

Albin said that Smith “strikes the perfect balance between offering support and direction” while also providing students opportunities to find their own way as social workers.

The Margo Awards, awarded through the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare, recognize students and faculty members who demonstrate outstanding achievement in the field of social work. The Excellence in Field Instruction awards are given to instructors and preceptors who have shown superior dedication to teaching and student learning.