In 2025, four members of the University of Florida Department of Anesthesiology received UF Superior Accomplishment Awards. Brandon Peckham, MHA, and Charmaine Turkdogan, ARNP, were recognized for their sustained excellence in divisions 5 and 2, respectively. Jennifer Barghout won for her outstanding individual performance, and Erik Neuman took home the “Rookie of the Year” award in division 5. University of Florida leadership honored these recipients at a luncheon in March.
Brandon Peckham, MHA, serves as vice chief for finance and administration in the Department of Anesthesiology. His nomination letters praised him as a transformative leader who has driven remarkable improvements through his innovative mindset, operational expertise, and unwavering commitment to the department’s success. Specifically, they highlighted how his initiatives have enhanced the department’s financial health, streamlined processes, expanded research capabilities, supported clinical growth, and fostered a positive, collaborative work culture, establishing the department as a model of excellence.
“Brandon is deeply invested in the continued prosperity of the Department of Anesthesiology and college at-large,” one of his letters read. “He remains eager to sustain our momentum in advancing our clinical, educational, and research missions. His attitude is contagious, and his unwavering dedication and positive problem-solving approach are apparent in his actions and results.”
Charmaine Turkdogan, ARNP, is a family nurse practitioner in our Division of Pain Medicine. Her nomination letters commended her for her exceptional multitasking skills, which enable her to manage a wide range of responsibilities, including providing clinical care, triaging, obtaining authorizations, conducting peer-to-peer reviews, and instructing incoming advanced practitioners and trainees. They also credited her enthusiasm and cheerful outlook as key contributors to the success and consistency of the Pain Clinic.
“Her energy is outstanding; her knowledge is phenomenal and her ability to solve problems is top notch,” one of her letters stated. “She is the person to go to for any questions in our pain clinic, and she is always going above and beyond to help our patients, colleagues, and chronic pain team.”
Jennifer (Jenny) Barghout is an administrative specialist II in the Department of Anesthesiology, focusing on faculty recruitment. Jenny’s nomination letters emphasized her pivotal role in the department’s successful recruitment efforts, which resulted in a fully staffed faculty. They also praised her for leveraging complex J-1 waiver programs to address physician shortages and improve access to quality care. Additionally, her letters highlighted her ability to foster a positive and productive work environment, exceed expectations, and demonstrate exceptional dedication, attention to detail, and leadership skills, which have directly impacted the department’s ability to achieve its goals and objectives.
“To a reader of this letter of support this may all seem straightforward. It is anything but,” one of her letters read. “Without her organization, innovation, and attention to detail, we wouldn’t be fully staffed for the first time in my 40 years as an anesthesiology faculty member.”
Erik Neuman is an administrative specialist I with a focus on faculty development in the Department of Anesthesiology. His letters of recommendation praised him for his exceptional proficiency in managing various tasks, including Continuing Medical Education (CME) Case Conference Lectures, visiting professors, departmental on-boarding workshops, and the Mentorship Program. They also highlighted his willingness to learn, adapt, and take on additional responsibilities, resulting in improved efficiency and processes within the department.
“Erik has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation, particularly in the development and execution of faculty programs that are crucial to the success of our department,” one letter stated. “I am particularly impressed by Erik’s problem-solving abilities and his skill in managing complex schedules, budgets, and travel arrangements, all while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and attention to detail.”
Congratulations to Brandon, Charmaine, Jenny, and Erik on their well-deserved awards!