Harvard Heroes recognized for contributions to the HSDM community

Harvard Heroes is an annual recognition program that celebrates staff members nominated for their contributions to the mission of Harvard at the highest levels of impact and excellence. Kathleen Refior, assistant director of communications and digital content, and Sophie Spengler, department administrator, were chosen as this year’s Harvard Heroes at Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM). Both share a commitment to elevating others around them and sustaining HSDM’s sense of community.

Refior has served in the Office of Communications for nearly five years and manages HSDM’s popular social media accounts, along with writing news stories, producing multimedia content, and other communications materials. She consistently highlights the accomplishments of the School’s students, faculty, and staff and uniquely captures the spirit of the HSDM community. 

In the words of one of her nominators, “As the steward of our social channels, Kathleen sets the tone for how we show up to the world.” Another said, “Her community-focused approach has strengthened our sense of belonging and pride.”

“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized as a Harvard Hero,” Refior said. “I feel very fortunate to work alongside such amazing students, faculty, and staff whose work continues to shape and elevate the field of dentistry. Whether through social media highlights, published stories, or magazine features, it’s been incredibly rewarding to collaborate with people across all departments and help bring their stories to life.”

During a challenging year when HSDM’s federal research funding was under threat, Refior came up with creative approaches to highlight HSDM’s researchers and showcase the science at stake. 

“She made our scientific and health policy research understandable to others and showed why it is impactful," said a nominator. “Through her efforts, our researchers felt supported at a time when there was great uncertainty in our community.”

Similarly, Sophie Spengler, department administrator in Oral Medicine, Infection, and Immunity, stepped up and showed grace under pressure during a period marked by significant institutional challenges.

“She became the steady force that held our department together,” said a nominator of Spengler. “Her work ethic is extraordinary, but it is her humanity that truly distinguishes her.”

Joining the department in the last year, Spengler quickly became essential to running a large department responsible for advanced education programs and research. For students, particularly those navigating visa concerns and regulatory complexities, she provided individualized attention that went above and beyond.

Nominators shared their appreciation for Spengler’s resilience and her ability to carry responsibility with grace. “She protects the morale of the team by modeling steadiness and optimism,” they said.

"At HSDM I am surrounded by some of the most intelligent, accomplished, principled, and humble people I've met in my entire career. To work with them every day is a blessing, and to have been nominated by them for this award in my first year is the highest honor. They make me want to go above and beyond for them every opportunity that I can,” said Spengler. “I will treasure this moment forever."

Spengler and Refior will be recognized at Harvard University’s Harvard Heroes Celebration held on Thursday, June 11th at 3:30 PM at Sanders Theatre.