Patricia Burks-Jelks, a Winchester resident and Director of Human Resources, Equity and Diversity at the University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI), was the recipient of the Meritorious Service Award from the Southern Region of College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR). The purpose of the award is to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the profession, their institutions and their CUPA-HR chapters.

Burks-Jelks was nominated for this award by the chapter leadership of the Tennessee CUPA-HR for distinguishing herself as a leader and advocate for the profession at her institution and throughout Tennessee. Serving as the CUPA-HR Tennessee Chapter’s first African-American president, she set the tone for diversity and inclusion in the chapter. She has demonstrated the importance of personal and professional development through her participation in chapter conferences and as a long-time board member.

“Patricia displays a ‘can do’ spirit that benefits everyone and is deserving of the recognition associated with this award,” commented Robert Moore, Executive Director of UTSI.

Burks-Jelks received the award on April 29, 2013 at the Southern Region CUPA-HR Conference held in Charlotte NC.