Each year, the University of Georgia recognizes its top 100 student employees through a competitive nomination process. This honor draws awareness to the outstanding achievements of the working students who balance their studies with immeasurable contributions to their institution.
The Institute for Disaster Management (IDM) is excited to share that three of its own student employees were recognized this year: Neal Bennett, Savannah Smith, and Makayla Peebles.
Neal Bennett (BBA ’25, MS ’26)
Neal Bennett (Blackshear, Georgia) is a Data Analyst Graduate Research Assistant at IDM and a master’s student in Business Analytics at the Terry College of Business.
Bennett was named overall first-runner up in the graduate student employee category, recognizing his exceptional contributions and impact through his work with IDM.
In his role, Bennett supports the information technology systems of one of IDM’s largest and highest-impact projects.
Upon joining the team, Bennett independently learned a new programming language and software platform, then applied them to address complex challenges within the program. He has strengthened quality control by authoring a custom code and ensuring the integrity of program data. His work regularly supports project reporting to state government entities.
Bennett is skilled at translating complex analytical outputs into clear, actionable insights through data visualizations that support evidence-based decision-making. His work has directly supported more than 8,200 certified nursing assistant candidates across Georgia, helping address workforce shortages in long-term care. Bridging public health and business analytics, his contributions reflect a commitment to both the data and the people it represents.
“Neal operates with the analytical rigor and independence of a full-time analyst,” said IDM business systems analyst and nominator Cameron McMillin. “He embodies the very best of UGA and the spirit of student employment excellence.”
Neal will be missed when he graduates in May, but the impact of his work will continue to resonate. He will be an invaluable asset to any organization fortunate to have him.
Savannah Smith (BA ’23, MPH ’26)
Savannah Smith (Jefferson, Georgia) is a second-year MPH student and graduate research assistant (GRA) at the Institute for Disaster Management.
As a GRA, Smith manages a range of responsibilities, including registry updates, inventory management, and research support, requiring strong time management and adaptability.
Smith has a knack for identifying and addressing team needs and challenges, freeing others to devote time and resources to other projects. Her attention to detail helps resolve challenges early, preventing larger issues, and improving team efficiency.
“She is the glue holding our master’s student workers together,” said IDM scientific writer and nominator Melanie Waddell.
Anticipating her graduation in the summer, Smith has worked diligently on a transition document to assist future GRAs. She hopes to remain in the area, continuing her education through a PhD program.
Makayla Peebles (BS ’22, MPH ’24, PhD student)
Makayla Peebles (Gainesville, Georgia) is a PhD student in Health Services Research and Policy and a Teaching Assistant for several master’s-level disaster management courses. In this role, she supports course development and instruction alongside IDM faculty, contributing to grading, discussions, and course delivery.
Most notably, Peebles played a key role in adapting the DMAN 7100E course into a digital format. IDM Associate Director and nominator, Dr. Morgan Taylor, credits Peebles’s leadership, persistence, and dedication to the course’s success.
“Makayla displayed outstanding communication skills, professionalism, and commitment to student success, supporting learners in a new environment,” said Taylor.
Regardless of the task, project, or course, Peebles consistently reflects the Institute’s mission through her initiative, creativity, and enthusiasm. Her high-quality work is recognized by IDM’s campus and community partners, reflecting her collaborative approach and strong social awareness.
Upon completion of her PhD, Peebles plans to pursue a career in emergency management to make a meaningful difference by supporting communities before, during, and after disasters.
IDM is proud to recognize and celebrate these outstanding students.
