UAB Medicine’s Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Executive Council, in partnership with the APP Central Office, recently recognized outstanding providers during the fourth annual APP Champion Awards. The awards celebrate advanced practice providers who exemplify UAB Medicine’s core values and make exceptional contributions to patient care, teamwork, innovation, and clinical excellence across the organization.
“Every day, our APPs make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients and families through their expertise, compassion, and commitment to excellence,” said Andrea Boohaker, associate vice president of Ambulatory Services. “These award recipients represent the very best of our profession and consistently demonstrate the high standards of care that define UAB Medicine.”
Lauryn Shultz, senior administrator for UAB Department of Medicine Clinical Programs and Operations, emphasized the critical role APPs play throughout the health system. “Our APPs are integral members of the care team, helping ensure patients receive timely, comprehensive, and high-quality care,” she said. “We are proud to recognize these individuals for their dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on our patients and colleagues.”
This year’s APP Champion Award recipients were selected based on nominations from peers, physicians, administrative leaders, clinical faculty, and residents. Their nominations highlight the exceptional ways these APPs embody UAB Medicine’s mission and values while advancing patient care and supporting their teams.
2026 APP Champion Award recipients
The 2026 APP Champion Award recipients are listed below, along with comments from those who nominated them.
Meg Crew, CRNP, Neurosurgery
“Meg has consistently demonstrated exceptional clinical excellence, servant leadership, and an unwavering commitment to advancing patient care. She exemplifies the UAB Core Values each and every day.”
Andi Farley, CRNP, Obstetrics and Gynecology
“Andi leads with integrity, follows through on her commitments, and provides safe, exceptional, patient-centered care.”
Taylor Jansen, CRNP, Hospitalist
“Taylor’s accomplishments are impressive, but what defines him even more so are his character, humility, and unwavering commitment to our mission – which no doubt will continue to shape hospital medicine and UAB for years to come.”
Jeff Lancaster, PA-C, Pulmonary
“Jeff’s impact extends beyond his clinic schedule – he is the go-to contact across the hospital for questions in his specialty, and he helped lead a lung nodule quality improvement initiative which improves patient outcomes and access to care.”
Kathryn Mahaffey, PA-C, Orthopedics
“Kathryn’s willingness to consistently exceed expectations and embrace every challenge with professionalism and a positive attitude has been instrumental in the continued success and growth of the Spine service line.”
Raven Peggins, CRNP, Infectious Diseases
“Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Raven serves as a role model for professionalism, compassion, and excellence. She leads by example and inspires confidence.”
Jeff Richey, PA, Trauma
“Jeff’s unwavering commitment to excellence is evident in the high-quality care he provides, his passion for educating junior trainees, and his role as a catalyst for innovation and positive change.”
Jesse Summers, CRNP, Obstetrics and Gynecology
“Jesse’s thoughtful and thorough approach results in outstanding clinical care and builds trust and reassurance with her patients. She is a true team player and practices with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.”
Kesha Thurston, DNP, CRNA, FAANA, Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine
“Kesha is an exceptional mentor, educator, and advocate who willingly shares her knowledge, encourages professional growth, and creates opportunities for those around her to succeed.”
Lauren Tucker, PA-C, Emergency Medicine
“Lauren elevates everyone around her. She is approachable, kind, and hilarious, earning the respect and friendship of many physicians, nurses, and technologists.”
Jason Windham, NP, CVI
“Jason is the nurse practitioner every patient hopes to have caring for them and the teammate every healthcare professional hopes to work beside.”