Kristin McCollough, LCSW-R, named UHS Laureate
July 28, 2025
Championing care, connection, and growth across the UHS community, Kristin inspires everyone she works with to thrive.
Kristin McCollough, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at UHS New Horizons, has been named the 2024 UHS Laureate—one of the highest honors awarded to UHS employees and providers. The Laureate is given annually to individuals who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to excellence, patient care, and Living Our Values Every Day throughout the previous year.
This year, UHS received around 70 nominations for the Laureate Award, highlighting outstanding contributions across the organization. Kristin stood out with six nominations that reflected the deep respect and admiration of those who work alongside her.
Kristin first joined UHS in 2007 and has consistently made a difference. Whether supporting patients through substance use recovery, mentoring new counselors, or guiding her team through times of transition, she is known for her steady presence, genuine compassion, and deep commitment to the people she serves. Kristin also spent time teaching at SUNY Broome Community College, where she helped prepare future social workers and counselors, sharing not only clinical knowledge but also the importance of compassion and respect in this challenging field.
Her career has been defined by a desire to uplift others. Known as a trusted mentor and a calming force during challenges, Kristin is a leader who ensures that others feel seen, heard, and supported. Her work extends far beyond her clinical expertise; her impact is rooted in how she treats others—with care, empathy, and unwavering respect.
As part of our 2025 Healthcare Week celebrations, Kristin’s teammates and UHS senior leadership surprised her with a special gathering to recognize this well-earned achievement. During the award celebration, Kristin reflected on how the field has evolved over time and what continues to inspire her:
“I came into the field it was 1988, and addition, as it was called then—substance use disorder—was a moral failing just on the cusp of being a disease and OK to talk about out loud. And it’s changed so much and so fast.
It was when I was at BCC that I started to realize that it wasn’t just the patients that needed compassion and respect and to be heard—it was also the counselors and the staff that work in the field. That really fueled my love for the work I’ve been able to do the last few years and the respect I have for each and every one of you. I am truly humbled.”
Congratulations, Kristin! Your leadership, heart, and dedication continue to make a lasting impact across UHS and in the lives of so many.
The video below highlights our recent award celebration and includes some of Kristin’s nominations.