The Gatton College of Business and Economics proudly acknowledges Frank C. Parker III and Deborah Burden as recipients of the 2024 Lyman T. Johnson Awards. The awards were presented at the 33rd annual Lyman T. Johnson Awards Luncheon hosted by the University of Kentucky Alumni Association and the UK Office for Community Relations. The luncheon took place on October 11, 2024, at the Gatton Student Center Grand Ballroom. 

Frank C. Parker III, a 1997 finance graduate, received the Torch of Excellence Award, which recognizes alumni whose dedication and accomplishments have positively impacted the university, community, state, or nation. 

Deborah Burden received the Torch Bearer Award, presented to a current student for academic excellence and positive influence. 

Frank Parker is the founding member and managing director of investments with the Quintus Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors. With over 25 years of experience in financial services, he cultivates relationships with high-net-worth clients, specializing in multigenerational family wealth management. Parker's commitment to integrity, loyalty, and client service has earned him recognition as a multi-year premier advisor at Wells Fargo. His team has also been honored as a Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisor and Wealth Advisor Team in Ohio. 

Parker's journey began with internships at Merrill Lynch and Fidelity Investments during his time at Gatton College. These experiences helped shape his investment philosophy and approach to wealth management. Parker remains dedicated to the university and serves on the Finance Advisory Board of Gatton College, giving back to the institution that played a significant role in his success. 

Deborah Burden is a dedicated student pursuing dual degrees in accounting and finance with a minor in business analytics. As a member of the Lewis Honors College and Beta Gamma Sigma Business Honor Society, she maintains an impressive 3.96 GPA. 

Beyond academics, Burden embraces opportunities for personal and professional growth. In 2023, she studied abroad in Paris, France, enhancing her cross-cultural communication skills and expanding her understanding of global business. Internships at PwC, Chipotle, and the Graham Office of Career Management have provided practical experience and valuable industry connections. 

Burden's commitment to service shines through her involvement in campus organizations like the Gatton Ambassador Program, LeadHER: Women Executives, and the ConnectFirst Mentoring Program. She is passionate about creating a welcoming and supportive environment for first-generation and underrepresented students at Gatton College. 

The Lyman T. Johnson Awards are named in honor of the first African American student to attend the University of Kentucky in 1949. Johnson's landmark court case opened the doors of UK to Black students, and he continued to fight for racial equality throughout his life. 

The awards celebrate individuals who embody Johnson's spirit of perseverance, achievement, and commitment to positive change. Both Frank Parker and Deborah Burden exemplify these qualities, making them deserving recipients of this prestigious recognition.