The School of Medicine is committed to recognizing the dedicated staff members whose work strengthens our teams, advances our mission, and contributes to a culture of excellence. The SOM Staff MVP program recognizes outstanding staff members on a bimonthly basis for excellence in areas such as high-quality work, teamwork, service and overall impact. Eligible staff members are recognized with a traveling trophy and featured on this page as the trophy makes its way across the School of Medicine. All honorees are also invited to the annual SOM Staff Awards Ceremony in December.
SOM Staff MVPs
Research Specialist Supervisor, Department of Human Genetics
Tamika Malone
Tamika Malone is recognized for more than 25 years of exceptional leadership and service in the Department of Human Genetics. She brings a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach to managing complex research operations, including animal management and coordination, laboratory safety and regulatory compliance. Tamika plays an important role in supporting IACUC protocols, AAALAC accreditation processes and Environmental Health and Safety Office requirements, helping maintain the department’s high standards for research integrity and safety. She is also known for her unwavering support of colleagues and teams, creating a positive and inclusive laboratory environment where others feel empowered to succeed. Her attention to detail, operational expertise and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on the Department of Human Genetics and the broader School of Medicine community.
Research Technical Specialist, Processing Manager, Biorepository and Larsen Lab Manager, Department of Surgery
Annette Hadley
With 45 years of dedicated service, Annette Hadley is recognized for her unwavering commitment to supporting research and the people who make it possible. She provides essential expertise in laboratory operations, ensuring cells, reagents, equipment and other
resources are ready to support investigators, trainees and staff. Annette is also a trusted mentor and resource, generously sharing her expertise and helping colleagues navigate experiments, laboratory processes and transitions. Her commitment extends beyond her immediate responsibilities, including stepping in to support other investigators and helping maintain critical research resources so projects can continue without interruption. Through her scientific expertise, generosity and quiet dedication, Annette has supported generations of researchers and made a lasting impact on the Department of Surgery and the School of Medicine.
Business Manager, Programs, Department of Anesthesiology
Karen Woods
Karen Woods has faithfully served the trainees in the Department of Anesthesiology at Emory for the last 32 years, bringing to each day her signature determination and can-do attitude honed in the US Army. Throughout her career, she has supported residency and fellowship programs with exceptional organization, determination and warmth, strengthening recruitment, educational programming and day-to-day operations. Karen has helped develop efficient recruitment processes, coordinate complex interview schedules, strengthen educational programming and manage multiple fellowship programs with consistency and care. When additional support was needed, she readily took on new responsibilities to help ensure programs continued to operate smoothly. As she prepares to retire in December 2026, Karen continues to support a successful transition and the long-term strength of the programs she has served. Her commitment to learners, colleagues and the department exemplifies the lasting impact of outstanding staff service.
