Pathology HR director wins 2026 Deb Cowley Staff Leadership Award

Jessica DellaRosa, SHRM-SCP, associate director of human resources for the Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, is one of two recipients of the 2026 Deb Cowley Staff Leadership Award, which was announced at the IU School of Medicine all-school meeting in September.

As highlighted in the award citation, the IU School of Medicine is fortunate to have someone like DellaRosa as a staff member. She was recognized for her work ethic, her dedication, her positive attitude and her steadfast willingness to promote the school’s mission, vision and values. The award nomination also called attention to her expertise and wisdom to work through some very difficult situations in combination with a thirst for knowledge and a genuine love for people.

DellaRosa joined the school of medicine in 2019 as associate director of human resources after a 20-year career with increasing levels of responsibility in the field. She also holds a number of prestigious professional degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in human resource management from the University of Maryland Global Campus, and numerous certifications and accreditations from the Community College of the Air Force.

The Indiana University School of Medicine created the Deb Cowley Staff Leadership Award in 2018 to recognize a professional staff employee who demonstrates a contribution to faculty assistance, coaching and/or development. Support of the success of faculty in the IU School of Medicine is of paramount importance. This award encourages and reinforces behaviors that support faculty success. This award is in recognition of the administrative support model demonstrated by Deborah Cowley during her tenure at IU School of Medicine. The school supports up to two awards annually.