Tania Ghani receives UNT Health’s Lighting the Way Award
Tania Ghani, assistant vice president of the Office of Research Compliance at UNT
Healt Fort Worth, has been named this year’s recipient of the Lighting the Way Award,
a prestigious recognition honoring individuals who exemplify UNT Health’s values through
exceptional leadership and service.
The Lighting the Way Award recognizes employees who consistently go above and beyond in living the institution’s values and strengthening the culture of the university. One standout recipient from each campus is selected for this honor by institutional leadership.
Ghani was recognized for her steady leadership and commitment to integrity during a period of significant transition within the Office of Research Compliance. Her guidance helped ensure continuity, stability, and trust across the division while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory and ethical oversight.
Her leadership was particularly evident during the university’s accreditation process, a complex and high-stakes effort that required sustained focus and collaboration. Rather than delegating the most difficult work, Ghani worked alongside her team, reviewing materials, guiding discussions, and modeling the persistence and accountability she expected from others.
“Tania leads by example,” said colleagues who nominated her for the award. “She never asks anything of her team that she is not willing to do herself. Her humility, commitment, and integrity are at the core of who she is.”
Under her leadership, the Office of Research Compliance has strengthened its processes, elevated institutional standards, and reinforced protections for researchers, participants, and the university community. Her work has helped build a resilient compliance infrastructure that supports responsible research while enabling innovation and progress.
In addition to her operational leadership, Ghani is widely recognized for her people centered approach. She raises a culture of collaboration, celebrates team achievements, and makes sure that staff feel supported and valued in their roles. These efforts have contributed to a strong, high functioning team environment grounded in trust and shared purpose.
Ghani’s commitment to excellence often extends beyond traditional working hours, reflecting her dedication to accuracy and institutional responsibility. Her consistent focus on balancing compliance requirements with the practical realities faced by researchers has strengthened the university’s research enterprise and positioned the Office of Research Compliance for continued success.
The Lighting the Way Award reflects not only individual achievement but also the collective impact of leadership that inspires others to live the institution’s values each day. Through her quiet determination and unwavering integrity, Ghani continues to shape a culture of accountability, collaboration and excellence across UNT Health.