LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 8, 2025) — The University of Kentucky Women’s Forum announced the four winners of the 2025 Sarah Bennett Holmes Award at a celebratory luncheon March 26. Award winners, nominees and other invited guests heard remarks from UK President Eli Capilouto and a keynote address titled "Standing Strong — Empowering Women to Define Their Path," presented by Tukea Talbert, D.N.P.

These awards recognize individuals and teams who promote the growth and well-being of women at the university and across Kentucky, individuals who reflect the accomplishments and legacy of Sarah Bennett Holmes, for whom the award is named. Holmes, a distinguished former dean of women at UK, tirelessly championed the rights of women throughout her career.

Widowed at an early age, Holmes raised four children while completing her own education. She then began a successful career at the university where she inspired young women to persevere in the face of hardship and pursue their career goals. Among her accomplishments, Holmes developed work programs for women during the Great Depression. In her honor, the UK Women’s Forum created the Sarah Bennett Holmes Award and since 1994 has been honoring women at UK who demonstrate the same principles as Holmes through their work and service.

Faculty, staff and graduate student recipients receive a monetary award and a plaque. The team and its members receive a framed certificate and plaque for their achievement. All winners are named on plaques in UK’s Main Building. The Sarah Bennett Holmes Award is among the most esteemed recognitions bestowed at UK and brings recognition for efforts that might otherwise go unnoticed.

The 2025 Sarah Bennett Holmes award winners are:

Amanda Fallin-Bennett, Ph.D. (faculty): College of Nursing

Abeni El-Amin, Ph.D. (staff): College of Education

Pegah Safavi (graduate student): Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering

Operation Be You (team)

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