Allison Howard, assistant director of outreach at University Recreation, has been named the October Student Affairs Employee of the Month for her collaborative leadership, creativity and commitment to enhancing the student experience.

Howard plays an important role in connecting University Recreation with departments across Student Affairs and the broader UAB community. Through partnerships with Student and Family Engagement, Housing and Residence Life, Wellness Promotion and Student Engagement, she helps bring new ideas to life and create opportunities for students to connect with campus resources. When unexpected weather forced this year's Recstravaganza and Parent and Family Weekend activities indoors, Howard quickly adapted plans and worked with campus partners to ensure a successful event, including record participation in the annual Rubber Duck Race.

Her commitment to excellence also extends beyond programming. Howard led the effort to reinstate payroll deduction as a University Recreation membership option for faculty and staff, working with Financial Affairs and Payroll Services to restore a benefit that had been unavailable since before the pandemic. She also prioritizes student feedback, helping establish advisory committees that give students a voice in shaping University Recreation programs and services.

Howard continually looks for creative ways to engage students, including initiatives such as Fit Happens on Tuesdays with Housing and Residence Life and the upcoming Wellness Darty in partnership with Wellness Promotion. Through these collaborations, she brings together recreation, wellness and other campus resources to create experiences that support student wellbeing and belonging.

Through her creativity, adaptability and commitment to collaboration, Howard exemplifies UAB's strategic priority of Co-creating Impactful Learning Experiences, helping students build connections, discover resources and make the most of their UAB experience.