Innovation Award
This award is given to a staff member who has generated novel and valuable ideas, and has used these ideas to develop new or improved processes, methods, systems, programs, or services. The award recognizes creative ideas that have made U of C a better place to live and work.
2015–2016 Winner: Audra Williams
In her role as Dining Operations Associate, Audra Williams has excelled on a number of special projects, including the evolution of the Externship Program, which promotes education, training, career development, and employment in the Englewood community.
Audra is approachable and helpful, and her colleagues greatly appreciate the contributions she has made to the work of UChicago Dining in her short tenure with the University.
Outstanding Newcomer Award
This award is given to an outstanding staff member who has worked at least six months but no more than three years in their current department. Nominees must demonstrate excellence in overall job performance; show willingness to assist beyond normal expectations; and show initiative and creativity in his or her work.
2015–2016 Winner: Adia Gooden
In less than a year, Adia Gooden has had an incredible impact on the work of the Student Counseling Service (SCS). From suggesting an open house with community mental health providers to creating a new way to help staff make informed referrals, Adia has enhanced processes in such a way that SCS is able to deliver better service to students.
Adia has quickly become a role model for her colleagues, leading trainings, inspiring others to think big and creatively, and doing everything with a smile.
Outstanding Service to the University Community
This award is given to a staff member who has demonstrated concern and commitment to fulfill needs and ensure satisfaction when providing services to members of the University community including faculty, staff, and students.
2015–2016 Winner: Bob Petrowski
As the Athletics Facilities Manager for Membership Services, Bob Petrowski supervises more than 80 student employees and interacts with hundreds of Ratner patrons on a daily basis.
The six nominations Bob received for this award not only highlighted his strong work ethic, they also praised his positive demeanor and his penchant for showing kindness and respect to everyone he meets. In a nomination, Bob was described as “that member of the group who always does what is best for the team without hesitation—usually sacrificing his own interests.”
Outstanding Service to Students
This award is presented to the staff member who has provided outstanding service to individual students or student groups on a consistent basis, whether through personal advising, development of programs, or improvements to university systems and policies that affect students.
2015–2016 Winner: Roberta Washington
Roberta Washington, a desk clerk at Broadview Hall, always greets visitors with a smile and has an unwaveringly positive attitude, no matter what the situation.
Roberta was described as “a beacon of welcoming sunshine,” and is known for consistently providing outstanding customer service.
Stephen P. Klass STAR Award (for Service, Teamwork, Attitude, Reliability)
In honor of Stephen P. Klass, who served as Vice President and Dean of Students form 2002–2006, this award is given to the staff member who has, with a positive and forward-thinking attitude, consistently excelled, made outstanding contributions in the area of service, promoted teamwork and collaboration, and worked quietly behind the scenes to improve the unit or their department.
2015–2016 Winner: Lupe Nieves
As a long-time member of CSL, Lupe Nieves has served in a variety of capacities, including her current appointment as the Associate Director in the Office of Event Services. In this role, Lupe provides operational leadership to two different buildings that host more than 4,000 events per year and consistently provides exemplary service to all stakeholders.
Lupe also serves as a Dean on Call and Sexual Assault Dean on Call, expertly supporting students and managing even the most difficult of emergencies with poise and compassion.