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 UChicago a better place to live and work.
2016–2017 Winner: Tempris Daniels
As a student involvement advisor in the Center for Leadership and Involvement (CLI), Tempris works with an attention to detail, an ability to multitask, and a spirit of innovation that rivals many. Tempris has worked with the College Programming Office to reimagine CLI's Reynold's Club Party, a long-standing tradition during O-Week. Through student feedback, Tempris reinvented the party to appeal to the broad and diverse interests of incoming first-year classes. Tempris's passion and creativity is clear in every conversation as she translates her inspiring visions for CLI events into tangible event themes.
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.
2016–2017 Winner: Stephen Marlow
Stephen works as the office manager for Health Promotion and Wellness, providing outstanding service as he interacts with staff, campus partners, and students. In his role, Stephen manages the administrative functions of each program and event Health Promotion and Wellness sponsors. While Stephen remains extremely busy with these administrative tasks, he maintains a positive outlook and consistently offers help in other areas as well.
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.
2016–2017 Winner: Ruth Kmak
Head Softball Coach Ruth Kmak demands greatness from the organizations she is a part of, while assisting in achieving greatness through positivity, wise guidance, and motivation. Ruth also serves as the senior advisor to the Women's Athletic Assocation. In this role, she has strengthened the organization and reinvigorated the group's commitment to Special Olympics in Chicago.
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.
2016–2017 Winner: Kimberly Green
As the front desk clerk at Max Palevsky, Kimberly takes a personal interest in every resident in the building. She engages with residents on a personal level, celebrating students' birthdays, giving advice, and connecting students to Registered Student Organizations. She also diligently works to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.
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.
2016–2017 Winner: Sophia Chaknis
As Director of College Housing, Sophia has played a key part in elevating the role of Resident Masters within the College Housing program and tirelessly supports the Resident Heads and Resident Assistants.