Oct. 28, 2025
Cheri Ghan
Tiger Spirit Award
Cheri Ghan has devoted years of hands-on service to our college, along with direct financial support by funding a scholarship for CHS students. She exemplifies a True Tiger, even though she graduated from a different Missouri university. She served as the college’s first full-time communications professional and later became its first full-time undergraduate student recruiter.
Despite retiring in 2022, Ghan continues to work part time on a massive project to document the history of the college and each of its academic programs. She has the historical knowledge of the college and the patience and diligence to wade through files in MU Archives and interview dozens of current and former faculty, administrators and alumni to tell its story coherently and accurately.
The Tiger Spirit Award recognizes an individual whose unwavering dedication reflects the very heart of the College of Health Sciences. These individuals strengthen our community and advance the college’s mission to improve health and well-being through their loyal service, passionate advocacy and enthusiastic engagement.
Sebastian Gely, BHS ’14
Outstanding Young Alumni
Sebastian Gely, is a 2014 graduate of our Health Science program who currently serves as the Deputy Operations Section Chief for the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency, or SEMA. Sebastian’s career began with an internship at SEMA during his time at Mizzou — an experience that sparked a passion for disaster response and public service. He has risen through the ranks, playing a vital role in Missouri’s emergency response efforts, including the state’s coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to his professional achievements, Sebastian is a dedicated mentor and advocate for CHS students.
Since 2016, he has served as a panelist for Introduction to the Health Professions, returning each semester to share his story, offer advice, and encourage students to embrace their unique paths. His honesty about academic challenges and career uncertainty resonates deeply with students, many of whom describe his message as both relatable and inspiring. Sebastian also works to create internship opportunities for Health Science students, ensuring that others can benefit from the same transformative experience that launched his own career.
The Outstanding Young Alumni award recognizes an alumnus who is 35 years old or younger for their professional accomplishments and continued engagement with the College of Health Sciences and the University of Missouri.
Rick Sommer, MSPH ’84, MSPA ’79
Excellence in Mentoring
Rick Sommer is a 1984 Master of Science Public Health and 1979 Master of Science Public Administration graduate, retired lieutenant colonel from the U.S. Army Reserve Medical Service Corps, and Life Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
As Executive in Residence for the MHA program for 15 years, Rick has been a guiding force in the lives of students and alumni — offering mentorship, career coaching and unwavering support. Since 2010, Rick has mentored more than 375 students and alumni, helping them navigate everything from internship placements to career transitions. He is a trusted advisor and a steady presence throughout the student journey and beyond.
Rick’s impact extends across campus as well. He has served as Chapter Advisor for Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity since 1999, mentoring more than 100 students in leadership, academics, and personal development. In 2015, he was named Chapter Advisor of the Year by the Pi Kappa Alpha International Fraternity. Whether he’s preparing a student for an interview, helping them secure an internship, or simply offering encouragement, Rick embodies the values of mentorship, service and student success.
The Excellence in Mentoring Award honors professional role models and mentors who have demonstrated a genuine commitment to the advancement of the College of Health Sciences and its students.
Gail Peace, BHS ’88, MHA ’92, MBA ’92
Citation of Merit
Gail Peace is a triple graduate of the University of Missouri, earning her Bachelor of Health Science in 1988, followed by both an MHA and MBA in 1992. Gail has built a remarkable career at the intersection of health care, innovation, and leadership.
A visionary entrepreneur, Gail founded Ludi, Inc., a health care software company that revolutionized physician compensation and performance management. Under her leadership, Ludi gained national recognition and was acquired by private equity in 2023. Gail continues to mentor and invest in emerging health care leaders, championing innovation and ethical leadership across the industry.
She recently established the Gail Matejcic Peace Innovation Scholarship, a four-year, full-ride scholarship in the College of Health Sciences. She has hired more than 20 Mizzou graduates, regularly mentors early-career professionals and is a frequent guest at the Mizzou Healthcare Leadership Symposium. Her generosity of time, talent and treasure makes her an extraordinary role model for the College of Health Sciences community.
She is also a national voice for women in STEM and health technology. As the author of “No Shortcuts: A Journey to Building a Successful Multimillion-Dollar Business,” Gail shares her story to inspire others — especially women — to lead with integrity and purpose.
The Citation of Merit award is given to an alumnus in recognition of exemplary contributions they have made, whether those are humanitarian, professional, civic or philanthropic.