Travis Reynolds, director of sponsored programs at UNK, received the University of Nebraska Board of Regents KUDOS award during today’s meeting.
KUDOS awards recognize university staff for their professional expertise, service and “superior dedication” to UNK and the University of Nebraska. It is the university’s top staff award.
Colleagues describe Reynolds as approachable, humble and always ready to lend a hand, often with a touch of good humor and a positive attitude. A true leader and collaborator, he exemplifies the spirit of UNK.
Reynolds joined the UNK community in 2017, accompanying his wife Jannelle, who had just been hired as an assistant professor in the UNMC physician assistant program in Kearney. His first role on campus was as a library access services associate, where he quickly became known for his willingness to help others and thoughtful attention to every task.
In 2019, his degree in business administration, along with his background in business operations and exceptional organizational skills, led to his appointment as contract and grant specialist in the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research Development.
When the assistant vice chancellor for research and creative activity departed in 2021, Reynolds stepped in as interim director. He was officially named director of sponsored programs in October 2023.
Under his leadership, UNK’s portfolio of funded grants and contracts has expanded significantly.
Earlier this year, UNK was classified as a Research College and University by the American Council on Education and Carnegie Foundation, becoming one of just 216 colleges and universities nationwide – and one of only 127 public institutions – to receive this recognition. The distinction requires an institution to spend at least $2.5 million annually on research, an achievement UNK surpassed under Reynolds’ guidance.
Leading a team of only two full-time staff and two part-time positions, Reynolds reviews every grant announcement and contract, assists faculty with proposal development and budgeting, and edits nearly every grant proposal before submission. His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment make him an invaluable member of the UNK community.
On top of that, he was recently awarded his own National Institutes of Health-funded grant to support training for the Office of Sponsored Programs and Division of Research and Creative Activity.