Honor Roll

The Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Program supports employee contributions, enhances morale, improves processes, celebrates cost-saving measures, recognizes exceptional student services, and fosters employee engagement. UA employees across the system are doing amazing work — and this program helped us identify, recognize, and elevate some of that work and its impacts.

Presenting the four Grand Prize recipients of the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Program!

Each will receive a $5,000 prize and recognition at the September Board of Regents meeting. The four recipients were chosen from the top 12 nominations, three from each university and the System Office, for their extraordinary contributions to the university.

Jessica Salas (UAA) helped develop a new UA transfer credit process in Banner. The new process greatly eases the crunch between semester end and the start of the next semester, which translates into quicker service to students and academic advisors serving those students.

Ashley Munro (UAF) helped facilitate PIT Crew training and develop a strategic plan for the Registrar's office. These improvements to the Registrar’s workflows make academic record-keeping more efficient and accessible for students and faculty. The work also achieved considerable cost savings efficiencies, as well as helped UAF modernize countless student processes, saving critical time and resources.

Bernard (Bernie) Yadao (UAS) pulled double duty, keeping the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems running and performing services above and beyond his position's scope. By stepping up to provide these highly skilled services, he saved UAS tens of thousands of dollars each year by eliminating the need to hire independent contractors. And he did it all with a great attitude and display of character.

Kolene James (UAS) provides support and guidance for AK Native students in Juneau and via distance. Her focus on healing through education, harvesting, and community grows leaders and provides a nurturing environment for Indigenous People at our university, and has contributed greatly to our goals for increasing enrollment of Indigenous students.

Award amounts: $100–$1,000 per award
Categories include:

Scalable Innovation - Innovation that improves operations
Exceptional Student Service - Exceptional student service
Empowering ��ҹ̽�� - Outstanding contributions and performance aligned with Empower ��ҹ̽�� values.

Nominations were reviewed and approved by supervisors and university leadership, with award funds allocated across each MAU.

University - level Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Recipients
University	Department	Recipient	Summary
System Office	State Government Relations	Katie McCall	Katie has been invaluable to the state relations team down in Juneau. Result: Millions of dollars in value.
	Procurement & Contract Services	Emilee Pruitt	As the ProCard Manager, Emilee took the initiative to learn about NexGen forms and mastered the process of building them. Result: Emilee's dedicated efforts have significantly streamlined the P&CS information gathering and approval processes.
	UA Strategy, Planning & Budget	Geoff Jacobs	Geoff has been a great help to the Strategy Planning and Budget office on several occasions. Result: Saved our department and the MAUs hours of manual work.
	UA Strategy, Planning & Budget	Sarah Belmont	Sarah is a great mentor to new employees. Result: Getting employees up to speed promptly benefits the employee, the department & the university.
	General Counsel	Sacha Layos	Implementation of the new Case Management software to streamline intake and tracking of system-wide legal matters, including those that directly impact student outcomes and concerns (Title IX reviews/hearings, grade appeals, program dismissals, student discipline, affiliation agreements). Result: Improved awareness and transparency of status on key, student-centered legal matters.
	General Counsel	Dawn Lighthall	Implementation of the new Case Management software to streamline intake and tracking of system-wide legal matters, including those that directly impact student outcomes and concerns (Title IX reviews/hearings, grade appeals, program dismissals, student discipline, affiliation agreements). Result: Improved awareness and transparency of status on key, student-centered legal matters.
	OIT Information Security and Assurance	Logan MacDonald	Logan has demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative. Result: Logan's improvements continue to decrease Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) which allows his team to catch incidents earlier, which in turn allows threat actors less time to cause damage in the UA environment.
	SO Cost Analysis	Sheri Billiot	Sheri has consistently gone above and beyond over the past several months. Result: Sheri's efforts contribute to laying the groundwork for components of the upcoming FY25 F&A cost proposal - which generates significant revenue reimbursement for all of the universities.
	Land Management	Kevin Kelly	Kevin led a strategic reduction in the System Office's office space usage, helping departments downsize quickly and efficiently while minimizing disruption. Result: The reduction in space is saving Land Management $78,000 annually, and also reduced the rental rate of Human Resources and Risk Management.
	OIT Platforms, Applications, & Web Services	Ryan Galler	Although Ryan has only been with the University of ��ҹ̽�� for six months and 3 days at the submission deadline, his impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. Result: Ryan's enhancements to the Google storage initiative and the development of a comprehensive dashboard have improved transparency and control over storage allocations, helping departments better manage their digital resources.
	OIT Information Security and Assurance	Aiden Watson	Aiden has put in significant effort to develop and optimize our SIEM tool, enhancing Security Operations' ability to react to incidents with improved detection capabilities. Result: Aiden's ongoing efforts have enabled Security Operations to take a more proactive approach in incident detection and response.
	University Relations	Denae Benson	The UA Federal Relations summer internship is a well-round opportunity UA undergraduates to learn about federal government processes while living and working in Washington, DC. Result: The ultimate goal of this program is to improve the student experience by providing an opportunity for growth and development.
	OIT Platforms, Applications, & Web Services	Aida de l'Isle	Aida has been instrumental in elevating user experience design across our digital platforms, consistently advocating for the needs of students, employees, and community members. Result: Aida's work on improving website accessibility not only brought our digital platforms into WCAG 2.0 compliance with a score improvement from 52 to 99 but also set the stage for long-term compliance with the more rigorous WCAG 2.1 AA standards.
	OIT Information Security and Assurance	Scott Corcoran	Scott has been a dedicated member of OIT Security Operations for over 8 years, consistently leading by example. Result: Scott's leadership, open-mindedness, and positive attitude have greatly enhanced our ability to collaborate effectively and build trust with the community we support.
	UA Risk Services	Jennifer Medders	For over a year, Jennifer has worked to develop over a dozen procedures documenting the workflow of her desk, streamline and memorialize processes that were never part of the Risk protocols historically that will become part of our updated department manual. Result: Jennifer's final procedures will allow our departmental manual to be fully updated and a "living" document for the first time ever.
	UA Foundation	Aimee Sudbeck	I recommend Aimee to receive an award for the extraordinary contribution she provided to the For ��ҹ̽�� Campaign Dec. Result: Specific to this nomination - but also displayed throughout all of her work - I know Aimee researches potential costs and purchase options.
	UA Foundation	Amanda Watt	Amanda always goes above and beyond what is required of her. Result: One example of this above-and-beyond attitude of Amanda's normal behavior is we were just informed of an upgrade to our primary online giving platform that will occur when she is on leave, on a road trip no less.
	UA Foundation	Amber Gichard	Amber has stepped up in extraordinary ways, taking on full budget responsibilities during a leadership transition while also supporting the scholarship process improvement effort. Result: Amber's leadership in managing the budget has ensured accuracy and prevented costly errors during a critical transition.
	UA Foundation	Dane Filemyr	Last year, due to health-related reasons, both Halley and I had to take some time off work, additionally we had just had another team member leave. Result: Dane did a great job of covering for others so there was no delays or interruptions in campus fundraising efforts, stewardship efforts, and data base maintenance.
	UA Foundation	Dory Straight	Dory has been an integral member of the scholarship process improvement team, bringing deep institutional knowledge, a commitment to student success, and a solutions-oriented mindset that has helped move this work forward in meaningful ways. She has served on nearly every committee involved in the scholarship process improvement effort. Result: Dory helped move the team beyond a "this is how we've always done it" mindset to reimagine what an effective, student-centered scholarship process can look like.
	UA Foundation	Kandace Welch	Kandace (working with Amanda Watt in Data Services) has found a way to upload backup documents to old batches using an automated approach. Result: Instead of backup documents being added one at a time, documents can now be added to constituent records in Raiser's Edge in batch-loads.
	UA Foundation	Kyrsti Floodeen	Kyrsti created an in-house planned gift rating system that will help us understand and engage with potential planned gift donors. Result: Kyrsti created the process and procedure for the household size data point and has been adding to it weekly.
	UA Foundation	Samantha Olah	Sam has provided excellent leadership on the finance team in regards to tracking and allocating income and related expenses for both the Foundation and our 950+ individual endowment funds. Result: Sam has given Foundation staff timely access to updated spendable funds as well as current values of endowed funds which enables the signature authorities to better manage the spending of these funds.
	UA Foundation	Stefanie Gustavsson	Stefanie has provided integral support in both tracking FY25 budget expenses and putting together the proposed FY26 budget. Result: Stefanie's efforts have allowed the rest of the Foundation team to focus on their primary tasks, and not have to get bogged down in budgeting and expense tracking.
	UA Foundation	Terri Schimmack	Starting in March, Terri spent hours training me on how to process NetCommunity gifts so that our gift processing team would be extra efficient during Giving Day. Result: Terri's extra effort to fully train me to process NetCommunity gifts resulted in our team being even more efficient during Giving Day and will also be very useful during employee absences.
	Fund Accounting	Diane Slusher	Diane has consistently delivered outstanding performance. Result: Diane exemplifies how System Office Finance shares knowledge and support with the campuses.
	UA Office of Information Technology	Tamara Clark	Tamara was an early adopter of the new Banner 9 financial reporting dashboards. Result: through her efforts decision makers have access to financial information in real time and don't have to wait for monthly or quarterly reports.
	UA Office of Information Technology	Hannah Irigoyen	After becoming the Butrovich building coordinator this fiscal year Hannah created an online workflow to manage the building coordinator duties. Result: Hannah's efforts have increased efficiency and reduced manual effort.
	UA Office of Information Technology	Santiago Coria	Santiago has been instrumental in leading the work on OIT's inventory project. Result: The outcome to this work is better knowledge of the inventory that OIT holds, cost avoidance for additional storage space, and compliance with university retention policy and capital equipment procedures.
	UA Office of Information Technology	Ivan Cozmulici	Ivan has been instrumental in the inventory management project that OIT is leading. Result: The outcome to this work is better knowledge of the inventory that OIT holds, cost avoidance for additional storage space, and compliance with university retention policy and capital equipment procedures.
	Financial Systems	Nicole Chambers	Nicole has initiated multiple improvements for the grants and contracts area, including improved reporting to monitor billing and fixed priced billing options. Result: This work has streamlined fixed price billing, provided the grants offices and management with better reporting to monitor and manage billing.
	Fund Accounting	Myrna Crutcher	Myrna has demonstrated exceptional dedication and work ethic in her efforts to reconcile nearly 100 accounts on a timely and consistent basis. Result: Myrna's contributions have had a direct and positive impact on our operational effectiveness.
	Financial Systems	Cathy Ewing	Utilizing baseline Banner functionality to automate student disbursement refunds. Result: The most common reason for students to receive a disbursement from the Offices of the Bursar is that they have financial aid in excess of their institutional charges.
	OIT Data Center Operations	Derek Ward	Derek expertly manages the complex and continuous demands of maintaining critical facility and support systems, addressing numerous facility requests, vendor interactions, and strategic planning meetings with positivity and urgency. Result: Thanks to Derek's committed oversight, the university's critical digital infrastructure remains consistently operational, positively impacting educational access and quality for students, faculty, and staff statewide.
	Enterprise Applications Systems	Russell Gillmore	Russell Gillmore collaborated closely with HRIS to develop scalable solutions that address two highly complex areas: pension vesting tracking and COBRA eligibility reporting. Result: While the final vesting tracker is still being refined, Russell's progress already marks a major leap forward.
	OIT	Jeffrey Whiteside	Jeffrey has been instrumental in helping RV Sikuliaq's team to improve their network infrastructure and speed up the data uploads for the research data collected during the research cruises. Result: Jeffreys ongoing work to improve the network have enabled real time data uploads for scientist and crew to start analyzing the incoming data from their instruments and speeding their access for it and enable them to study the information while in the ship and soon as they return back from the cruise.
	Human Resources	Austin Somaduroff	Austin has a natural orientation towards streamlining, automation, and continuous improvement. Result: The cost modeling tool that Austin took the initiative to develop enabled the negotiation team to be nimble and responsive, and provided confidence in being able to compare various scenarios.
	Human Resources	Joseph Cardoza	Joseph identified a major opportunity to improve the efficiency and accuracy of UA's Open Enrollment process and led a cross-functional initiative alongside the UA HR Benefits Manager and the EAS Lead HR Programmer. Result: Joseph's leadership in transforming the University of ��ҹ̽��'s Open Enrollment process exemplifies innovation, efficiency, and strategic impact.
	Human Resources	Jenn Clapp	In prior years we have sought to automate open enrollment through 3rd party vendors, which would require both significant cost and extensive work from HRIS and EAS. Result: This automation eliminated the need for the purchasing of 3rd party services, as well as data entry costs.
	Human Resources	Timothy Armbruster	Timothy has consistently gone above and beyond during peak processing cycles, working significant extra hours to ensure accurate PERS and TERS reporting to the State of ��ҹ̽��. Result: Ensured uninterrupted compliance with state retirement reporting, strengthened long-term financial planning through accurate benefit rate modeling, and elevated the effectiveness of the HR Accounting team through steady, values-driven leadership.
	Human Resources	Danielle Nelson	Danielle took on additional, high level, responsibilities in employee relations and has provided critical advice and leadership during a prolonged period of LER staffing challenges. Result: Danielle's consistent professional approach has improved LER communications and relationships across UA, and in particular with UAA.
	Human Resources	Parker Leland	Workload volume management (600% increase since 2023) and building processes for Accommodations and Leaves that were not in place before, ensuring we are in compliance across the entire local and remote workforce. Result: Implementation of standardized process to allow for case management software to allow for future scalability and process and policy alignment.
	Human Resources	John McGee	Whether solving complex system challenges, mentoring colleagues, or setting the tone for collaboration, John is a model of professionalism, innovation, and unwavering support. Result: When faced with high-pressure situations, John is the calm at the center of the storm.
	Human Resources	Logan Juhl	Logan has a mindset for optimization and approaches every day with a drive to make things better. Result: Through automation, optimization, and a keen understanding of business processes, Logan has reshaped HRIS operations in a way that allows employees to focus on higher-impact, strategic work rather than routine, manual tasks.
	Human Resources	Stephanie Brown	Stephanie restructured our approach to employee development by aligning multiple systems, but for this award nomination, a focus on ComPsych training credits with internal workshops and other learning opportunities for staff. Result: Stephanie significantly improved our return on investment by maximizing the value of the ComPsych programs and structures for development.

University - level Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Recipients
University	Department	Recipient	Summary
University of ��ҹ̽�� Anchorage	College of Business and Public Policy	Katelynn Flaherty	The concept involves developing a comprehensive and visually engaging resource, like a brochure, to assist faculty and staff in preparing for critical accreditation processes. Result: The brochure significantly contributed to the success of CBPP's AACSB accreditation visit by equipping faculty and staff with the necessary information to navigate the process smoothly.
	College of Business and Public Policy	Andrea Jones	Andrea Jones has significantly contributed to student recruitment, retention, and the overall student experience at the College of Business and Public Policy. Result: .The kick-off event has successfully supported students financially while enhancing recruitment efforts, streamlining the process and reducing staff workload.
	College of Business and Public Policy	Tricia Kofoid	Tricia Kofoid's exceptional efforts in improving the college's DocuSign form process reflect her commitment to enhancing efficiency and reducing administrative burden. Result: Tricia's efforts have saved countless hours for both faculty and staff, drastically improving the speed and clarity of the approval process.
	Campus Cache	Annie Hervey	I am writing to formally recommend Annie Hervey, Admissions and Records Supervisor, for recognition of her exceptional contributions to Mat-Su College Student Services for the past several years. Result: Annie Hervey has consistently gone above and beyond expectations with training, troubleshooting and supporting collogues within and across departments.
	Residence Life	Camille Oliver	Camille Oliver serves as the Operations Manager for Residence Life, and consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty in her service to students. Result: Camille's efforts to keep students as the focus of her highly technical and operations-centered position has contributed to historically high retention and persistence rates among residential students at UAA.
	UAA Learning Commons	Kearney Lewis	I would like to nominate Kearney Lewis, Program Director for Peer-to-Peer Retention Initiatives, for the Exceptional Student Service and Scalable Innovation categories from the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Plan. Result: As a result of Kearney's leadership, both programs have empowered students to take an active role in their education, reinforcing UAA's commitment to student retention and success.
	UAA Learning Commons	Heather Teel	Heather has done a fantastic job managing a major expansion in services and a massive uptick in usage of pre-existing services. Result: Heather's contributions support innumerable students who now access this specialized support in these subject-areas to help them maximize their academic potential and reach their educational goals.
	UAA Learning Commons	RaLyssa Harris	Ralyssa is the newest Director in the Learning Commons, overseeing peer tutoring in STEM. Result: As a result of these innovations, Ralyssa's programs are significantly more effective at meeting students where they are in their academic journey and thus increase individual student performance, persistence, and retention.
	College of Business and Public Policy	Kurt Robar	Kurt Robar's initiative in leading the migration of the College of Business and Public Policy's website to the UAA ITS platform, followed by the creation of training videos for faculty and staff, has significantly streamlined our digital operations. Result: This initiative has resulted in reduced workload hours for faculty and staff, who no longer need extensive technical support to update the site.
	Office of Financial Aid	Thi Pham	FAFSA Simplification created issues beyond the FAFSA application process. Result: Thi managed this with no additional resources or the expected consultant many schools needed to make the changes required.
	Campus Services	Molly Davis	Due to several vacant positions for extended periods, employee altered working hours for majority of the academic year, filling in at various vacant positions, even took turns driving the Seawolf Shuttle. Result: Employee helped insure continuity of Parking Services on campus during a period of multiple staffing vacancies.
	Parking Services	Erin Braun	Due to several vacant positions for extended periods, employee altered working hours for majority of the academic year, filling in at various vacant positions, even took turns driving the Seawolf Shuttle. Result: Employee helped ensure continuity of Parking Services on campus during a period of multiple staffing vacancies.
	Parking Services	Donald Walker	Due to several vacant positions for extended periods, employee altered working hours for majority of the academic year, filling in at various vacant positions, even took turns driving the Seawolf Shuttle. Result: Employee helped ensure continuity of Parking Services on campus during a period of multiple staffing vacancies.
	Parking Services	Falon Harkins	Due to several vacant positions for extended periods, employee altered working hours for majority of the academic year, filling in at various vacant positions, even took turns driving the Seawolf Shuttle. Result: Employee helped ensure continuity of Parking Services on campus during a period of multiple staffing vacancies.
	University Police Department	Kevin Stevenson	Sgt. Stevenson has stepped up to assist the department with leadership and training for all the new hires. Result: Sgt. Stevenson has been assisting with training the new generation of UPD officers.
	University Police Department	Michael McPherson	Michael stepped up in his development process and became the department firearms instructor. Result: Assisted with critical departmental needs / functions.
	University Police Department	Collin Becker	Collin has been with the UPD Security Team since its early days. Result: Through his ability to help teach new hires, and explain how to do the different aspects of the role helps reduce training time and get people working on their own sooner.
	ANSEP	Kaitlyn Gwinn	Overhaul of academic and behavior support at Acceleration Anchorage, which led to new discipline system, more effective recitations, better 1:1 assistance, and a student task list. Result: First Year Semester at Acceleration Anchorage perform significantly better in their academic pursuits than fellow students at other ANSEP sites.
	ANSEP	Monica Fast	Primary architect behind ANSEP Acceleration Anchorage's discipline pilot F.A.S.T. Result: Acceleration Anchorage is better aligned with University of ��ҹ̽�� Anchorage on student code of conduct while also providing students a way to learn from disciplinary infractions.
	Admissions	Miranda Zweigle	Miranda has gone above and beyond her expected duties to come up with and implement new admissions processes and list views. Result: Through Miranda's creation of additional list views/queues, we have already been able to tackle fraudulent applications more effectively, know which applicants may need additional reminders/reach out, process applications more quickly and efficiently, and develop new processes to better serve our students and staff.
	Admissions	Ashley Carl	Ashley (Ash) has gone above and beyond to think outside of the box of one of our semesterly projects: withdrawing applications. Result: Ash suggested improvement reduced one of our lists from 660 students, down to 36 for Spring 2025 alone.
	Employee Experience	Heather Jensen	Through her passionate dedication to fostering connections and creating impactful events, Heather has significantly enhanced the sense of belonging among employees. Result: Heather's work has helped countless UAA employees feel welcomed, engaged, supported, and valued.
	University Police Department	Amy Mengay	Officer Mengay stepped up and assisted with the training of new officers by being the Stage 2 FTO. Result: Successfully helped build new officers for the department in support of our community.
	Admissions	David. Racki	David has exhibited extraordinary effort and support to various areas of UAA, during times of great need. Result: David's efforts have resulted in improved university and community partnerships, as well as a safe and positive experience for our international students.
	Employee Experience	Ahmbra Austin	Her innovative programming has significantly enhanced employee education, development, and morale, fostering a strong sense of belonging within our community. Result: Ahmbra's work has helped countless UAA employees feel welcomed, engaged, supported, and valued.
	University Police Department	Ray Bettencourt	Officer Bettencourt has successfully completed his FTO Program and is providing positive community policing to the community. Result: Successfully completed early.
	University Police Department	Jackson Ellinwood	Officer Ellinwood completed the FTO program. Result: Officer Ellinwood is currently working on his own serving UAA with Community policing.
	University Police Department	Collin Hurd	Officer Hurd has completed his FTO program Expected Outcome: Officer Hurd Completed his FTO program and is now out working on his own serving UAA in community policing. Result: Officer Hurd Completed his FTO program and is now out working on his own serving UAA in community policing.
	Seawolf Store	William Valentine	William 'Billy' Valentine has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to helping students find the materials and resources they need in a timely and personalized manner. Result: Billy Valentine is highly deserving of the Exceptional Student Service Award.
	ANSEP	Joseph Rowles	Joe has been passionately serving our students since he first began, and he moved into a leadership position, taking the role of Assistant Director. Result: I personally feel well supported by Joe, and he has helped me grow as an employee.
	ANSEP	Christian Cielo	Christian has put a lot of effort into planning celebrations with our students, and he has involved student council in every step of the process. Result: Our students feel cared for and valued.
	Office of Admissions	Nicole Fenton	Nicole has not only created efficient processes but has also shared these practices with community campuses ensuring a unified & collaborate approach to process improvement. Result: The admissions processing team now processes applications in 1-2 business days.
	Office of Admissions	Rachel Towslee	Rachel has spearheaded many substantial efforts related to improving the student experiencing. Result: Rachel's efforts have led to clearer guidance regarding the application process and next steps.
	Office of Admissions	Shuzo Zidalis	Shuzo created a modernized version of Spirit (the Seawolf mascot), called Sparky. Result: The creation of Sparky has already led to higher engagement and excitement at recruitment and other UAA events.
	Office of Admissions	Casey Karn	Casey has been vital in getting the UAA recruitment team into community event spaces post COVID. Result: Casey helped UAA Admissions gain brand recognition.
	Office of Admissions	Pat Borjon	Pat has been a critical member of the Admissions team. Result: These automations that Pat has developed have drastically reduced the amount of staff time needed to do simple admits, send communications and catch fraudulent applications.
	Office of the Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services	Rhiannon Calkins	Rhiannon has been instrumental in helping get UAA's process improvement effort moving, in conjunction with the System Office's initiative. Result: Rhiannon's focus on process improvement enable our office to get more done with less staff than it previously had.
	College of Business and Public Policy	Katelyn Jantz	Katelyn Jantz developed an innovative and scalable system to streamline faculty workload tracking and planning. Result: This solution cut the faculty workload collection and revision process down from six weeks to just two weeks.
	College of Business and Public Policy	Brandon McKinney	Since joining the College within the last two years, Brandon McKinney has made an extraordinary impact through his proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to staff advocacy. Result: Brandon's efforts have led to a noticeable increase in staff engagement and participation in governance.
	College of Business and Public Policy	April Alvarez	April Alvarez demonstrated extraordinary leadership and initiative by completely overhauling the Assurance of Learning (AoL) process at the College of Business and Public Policy. Result: In less than two years, April's efforts resulted in 100% faculty participation and understanding of AoL expectations.
	Student Life & Leadership	Shelby Kriegh	A standout achievement in FY25 has been Shelby's leadership in the continued implementation and refinement of Seawolf Life, UAA's online student engagement platform. Result: The streamlined club registration process through the creation of SeawolfLife reduces employee time and improves student engagement as it eliminates barriers to starting a club and increases engagement opportunities.
	Office of Admissions	Daphne Ang	Daphne Ang has been a huge asset to our recruitment team ever since she joined, but especially this past year. Result: Created more engagement in the ASD through migrant education, multicultural fairs and special presentations. She has made a bigger presence for UAA in the community with the events she has planned and reached out the healthcare community through her contacts she met through her social work outreach.
	University Police	Alex Beaudreault	Alex deserves an Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive for taking on the crucial role of a trainer, directly investing in the success of new dispatchers. Result: Recognizing Alex's training will likely improve employee effort by reducing the support needed for new dispatchers, potentially reduce workload hours for the team, and lead to cost avoidance through fewer errors and less retraining.
	University Police	Madelyn Day	Maddie deserves recognition for her dual role in training and Quality Assurance, directly enhancing the program's effectiveness by ensuring consistent standards and skilled personnel. Result: Maddie's efforts in training and Quality Assurance are expected to lead to cost avoidance through reduced errors and improved efficiency, employee effort or resources improved by ensuring consistent quality.
	University Police	Donald Carle	Don's elevated approach to student and customer care significantly benefits our university and community by prioritizing student safety and well-being. Result: His proactive approach to student safety and aftercare may also lead to cost avoidance by mitigating potential crises and reducing the need for extensive reactive interventions.
	University Police	Diane Michalski	Diane's extensive emergency services knowledge is a valuable asset to our university community, directly enhancing safety and preparedness. Result: Diane's willingness to assist with her emergency services knowledge is expected to lead to cost avoidance by potentially mitigating risks and minimizing the impact of emergencies.
	Registrar's Office	Jessica Salas	This academic year, Jessica coordinated with UAF, UAS and OIT at the system office to develop a new UA transfer credit process (in Banner) that eliminates manual data entry of UAF and UAS courses when transferring those credits back to UAA. Result: The new process greatly eases the crunch between semester end and the start of the next semester (a peak processing time for this area system-wide), which translates into quicker service to students and academic advisors serving those students.
	Registrar's Office	Sam Sargent	Due to rising costs and repeated poor paper quality, I asked my team to explore alternatives to our existing diploma paper vendor. Result: The vendor we selected– all thanks to Sam's research and perseverance – saved the university approximately $2500 this fiscal year compared to our prior vendor, and moving forward (due to a one time only die cost) will save the university approximately $3500 annually.
	Registrar's Office	Alexandra Lacy	Alix has spent much of this academic year learning the ins and outs of the NextGen platform and form creation, and has transformed countless Registrar's Office forms from clunky DocuSign forms to user-friendly, modern, and accessible NextGen forms. Result: To date, Alix has created and published numerous NextGen forms for the Registrar's Office.
	Residence Life	Kerry Davis	The Department of Residence Life facilitates over 600 programs and events each year. Result: By taking a collaborative approach to programming, Kerry has created a system in which cost savings are realized from bulk purchasing of commonly used items and fulfillment of programmatic needs from previous fiscal years' stocks.
	Residence Life	Dawn Randazzo	Dawn Randazzo has gone above and beyond in her service to the ��ҹ̽�� Native community at UAA. Result: Dawn's efforts are directly supporting retention efforts of ��ҹ̽�� Native, Indigenous and rural students.
	Student Engagement	Mark "Zac" Clark	Zac is an excellent example of someone who goes above and beyond in his work. Result: Zac is an extremely efficient employee.
	Student Engagement	Cody Buechner	Cody Buechner is a great example of providing work that has increased revenue for the Student Union. Result: He has increased revenues by 35% for FY25 between sundry sales and space rentals.
	Career Services	Holly Johanknecht	As the director of Career Services, Holly has led the team to an amazing year, seeing a record number of students at both the fall and spring career fairs. Result: Career Services has continued to increase its revenues for the Career Fair(s) and Accounting Recruitment Week.
	Community and Belonging	Sara Caldwell-Kan	Sara is a great example of a campus leader who has provided exceptional student service. Result: Overall, the ability to share resources and be efficient with staffing, capacity, and funding has been a highlight of Sara's career at UAA.
	First-Year Experience	Cheryl Devenny	As the director of First-Year Experience, Cheryl has worked to reduce barriers for incoming students so they can easily transition into UAA. Result: A few examples of the ways in which Cheryl has impacted the student experience on campus.
	Student Engagement	Lydia Gentry	Lydia is constantly considering new ways to be more efficient in our fiscal work. Result: Many of Lydia's processes and procedures have improved the experience of the fiscal team.
	Registrar's Office	Charese Gearhart-Dekreon	I am writing to formally recommend Charese for recognition for her exceptional contributions to UAA over the past several years. Result: Charese has consistently gone above and beyond expectations with training, troubleshooting and supporting collogues across campuses and departments.
	Facilities & Campus Services	Joseph Howell	For FY25, Joe recommended that Facilities adopt a new approach to managing utility encumbrances in order to streamline the process and reduce issues impacting invoice processing. Result: This updated process has delivered significant efficiencies for both UAA Facilities and Accounts Payable (A/P) teams, while fully removing this task from UA Procurement's workload.
	Athletics	Ashley McKibbon	Due to scheduling conflicts with the State High School Basketball Tournament, the only way the UAA Gymnastics student-athletes would be able to host the conference championship was to do so at the Avis ��ҹ̽�� Sports Complex, a facility we had not hosted a gymnastics competition in since 2014. Result: Employee effort went above and beyond.
	Budget Office	Trudy James	Trudy was instrumental in launching the Next Gen/FUPLOAD process at UAA Budget Office. Result: This new process leads to several hours of personnel time saved.
	Facilities & Campus Services	Duane Nease	The team stepped up and performed work that would typically be contracted scope. Result: There was a significant concern about loss of revenue, reputational harm and the overall cost impact to use external work force for the work.
	Facilities & Campus Services	Beau Pepin	The team stepped up and performed work that would typically be contracted scope. Result: There was a significant concern about loss of revenue, reputational harm and the overall cost impact to use external work force for the work.
	Facilities & Campus Services	Josh Morlan	The team stepped up and performed work that would typically be contracted scope. Result: There was a significant concern about loss of revenue, reputational harm and the overall cost impact to use external work force for the work.
	Facilities & Campus Services	John Spoelman	The team stepped up and performed work that would typically be contracted scope. Result: There was a significant concern about loss of revenue, reputational harm and the overall cost impact to use external work force for the work.
	Facilities & Campus Services	Roger Nelsen	The team stepped up and performed work that would typically be contracted scope. Result: There was a significant concern about loss of revenue, reputational harm and the overall cost impact to use external work force for the work.
	Facilities & Campus Services	Blake Zollinger	The team stepped up and performed work that would typically be contracted scope. Result: There was a significant concern about loss of revenue, reputational harm and the overall cost impact to use external work force for the work.
	Facilities & Campus Services	Kara Monroe	Exceptional behavior that is a model for others and is aligned with key elements of empower alaska. Result: She is a strategic partner for the horticulture community.
	Facilities & Campus Services	Christopher McConnell	UAA Member of the system office expansion of the process improvement team. Result: The program seeks to assist units in redesigning existing processes to make them more effective and efficient, reducing time, resources, and spending.
	UAA Learning Commons	Kathryn Drake	Katie has been a critical member of the UAA Student Advising Leadership team and a delightful colleague across campus. Result: Katie has has led the redesign/recreation of the Undecided/Exploratory advising unit resulting in a 77.7% student return rate from Fall 24 to Spring 25, an increase of 13.4% compared to Fall 23 to Spring 24 return rates.
	Office of Student Success/Honors	Joseph Bruner	Joseph (Joe) Bruner has spearheaded several high-impact initiatives that provide students with high-impact opportunities and connections to campus resources. Result: The Student Showcase is a dynamic event that brings in students and their families and members of the community.
	Office of Student Success	Cameron Nay	Cam has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing a major expansion of services at the Learning Commons during a time of significant transition. Result: As a result of Cam's work, countless students now benefit from expanded academic support in a broader range of subjects, empowering them to reach their educational goals and persist at the university which in turn contributes to student retention (and therefore increased revenue).
	Military & Veteran Student Services	Kayleigh Davis	Kayleigh joined Military & Veteran Student Services in Spring 2024 during a critical period marked by severe understaffing and an overwhelming workload. Result: Since Kayleigh's employment, MVSS has experienced increases in retention and enrollment for military-connected students in subsequent semesters.
	Facilities Maintenance & Operations	Sam Smith	Sam has shown exceptional customer service toward staff and students while actively maintaining university buildings. Result: Sam has worked exceptionally hard to help shoulder the load in a burdened department that is currently experiencing a 25% reduction in staff and continues to provide excellent customer service.
	Residence Life	Kyle Steele	This year in Residence Life, Kyle became the senior Residence Coordinator on staff with three brand new colleagues serving in the same role. Result: As we wrap up this academic year, the strength of the Residence Coordinator team is a direct reflection of Kyle's leadership and role modeling.
	Student Engagement	Jessica Ross	Jessica Ross has been an invaluable member of the Chanshtnu Council, leading discussions and programming that have an impact on the ��ҹ̽�� Native and Indigenous community at UAA. Result: As a member of the Chanshtnu Council, Jessica will provide important feedback and consideration as we move forward with the NSS transition.
	Budget Office	Rhonda Swett	Rhonda has recently learned a new way to upload, enter and scan Journal Vouchers into Banner and OnBase systems using the FUPLOAD process. Result: By learning this new FUPLOAD process, Rhonda has cut down on the processing time of JVs, printing paper copies, reducing data entry error, and scanning documents into the OnBase system for record retention.
	First-Year Experience	Jane Mastre	This past year, Jane became the supervisor for the Student Engagement Graphic Arts and Publicity Center. Result: With her support of GPS, we have increased the marketing and connections students have to campus events.
	Office of Student Success	Whitney Flores	Whitney Flores is the Advising Director for the staff who serve the College of Business and Public Policy, the College of Engineering, and the Community and Technical College. Result: Whitney's efforts not only contribute significantly to student success but they also contribute to staff success.
	First-Year Experience	Sarah Shives	Sarah has continuously increased student participation in new student orientation, with an average of 91% of participants registered for classes the following semester. Result: Students participating in New Student Orientation are more likely to enroll and persist at UAA based of the data.
	Office of Student Success/Honors	Leslie Olberding	Leslie Olberding is the Advising Director for the team that serves the College of Arts & Sciences. Result: Leslie has created a positive and student-centered work environment for her team and impacts staff retention (saving the labor and costs of training) as well as student retention, persistence, and graduation.
	Athletics	Marie-Sophie Boggasch	Marie-Sophie and Kendra lead the way for our Gymnastics program. Result: I recommend Kendra McPheters and Marie-Sophie Boggasch for the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Program Award for FY25 in the category of Exceptional Student Service.
	Athletics	Kendra McPheters	Marie-Sophie and Kendra lead the way for our Gymnastics program. Result: I recommend Kendra McPheters and Marie-Sophie Boggasch for the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Program Award for FY25 in the category of Exceptional Student Service.
	KPC/KBC	Deborah Tobin	KBC's Semester by the Bay program brings students from around the United States to ��ҹ̽�� to engage in cutting edge marine science and service learning. Result: This program brings in out of State cohorts of students every semester.
	UAA Student Advising	Kara Hopkins	Kara has been instrumental in the redesign of the Exploratory advising program. Result: As a result of Kara's contributions to the Exploratory advising program, there has been an increase in persistence and retention rates for this student population..
	UAA Student Advising	Janina Misiewicz	Janina is part of the Exploratory Advising team. Result: Because of Janina's work, potential revenues from student retention and persistence have increased.
	Student Affairs	Kimberly Morton	Kim Morton is a forward-thinking leader. Result: Kim's adaptability and strategic planning has kept Student Engagement in the best position possible after years of budget constraints and inflation.
	Community & Belonging	Jessi Saiki	As the coordinator who oversees the day to day operations of the first and only collegiate Pride Center in the state of ��ҹ̽��, Jessi has demonstrated exceptional leadership. Result: A number of students have shared that they chose UAA because of the Pride Center.
	Community & Belonging	Daniela Grijalva	Daniela has worked tirelessly to support students through a number of high level challenges. Result: Students who are connected with Daniela have a strong advocate and support.
	Student Engagement	Michele Yatchmeneff	Michele serves as a campus leader in ��ҹ̽�� Native and Indigenous student success. Result: In her role on campus, Michele's impact has been the ways in which we are seeing the ��ҹ̽�� Native Success Initiative (ANSI) have a positive impact on recruitment, retention, persistence, and graduation rates of students.
	Residence Life	Bethany Ulroan	Bethany is in her first year as a Residence Coordinator, and she has consistently gone above and beyond in her service to students. Result: Bethany's commitment to serving ��ҹ̽�� Native and Indigenous students is exemplary.
	College of Health	Roxana Petrilla	Roxana Petrilla demonstrated exceptional innovation and change management by leading the transition of sponsored project administration services for the UAA College of Health from a centralized Office of Research unit back to the college in the summer of 2024. Result: The newly established business processes enable the Grant Hub team to support Principal Investigators (PIs) more effectively by simplifying and streamlining the submission and tracking of requests.
	Student Life & Leadership	Micah Perino	Micah Perino has consistently demonstrated outstanding service in his role as Fiscal Technician, supporting a wide range of student-facing departments including USUAA, The Northern Light, and KRUA 88.1FM. Result: Micah's efforts contribute significantly to the overall student experience.
	��ҹ̽�� Medical Library	Shelby Lawson	In the last 12 months, the AK Medical Library's client base has grown significantly. Result: Improved workflow of services to clients of the ��ҹ̽�� Medical Library.
	��ҹ̽�� Medical Library	Anna Bjartmarsdottir	Anna has recently moved into a new role as the Allied and Public Health Librarian within the AK Medical Library. Result: Improved access and increased understanding of evidence-based information by undergraduate and graduate students in allied and public health which will translate directly into positive outcomes around patient care in ��ҹ̽��.
	Center for Economic Development	Ian Mills	Ian developed a system to help the CED team accurately track financial information in real time. Result: Improved financial monitoring has enabled the CED team to increase the amount of contract work the team engages in.
	Dean of Students Office	Kate Larson	From October to March 2025, the UAA Care Team functioned with only Kate serving as a case manager because Kate's colleague had resigned and it took us until March to hire a second Care Team professional. Result: Kate addressed 100 additional Care Team cases on top of her normal workload.
	UAA Student Advising	Justin Huguenin	Justin is an academic advisor serving all students in programs within the School of Education. Result: As a result of Justin's contributions, the programs are growing.
	Facilities Maintenance & Operations	Kevin McConnell	The university was in dire need of restoring two failing heating systems; one in the Central Garage and one in Student Housing. Result: Had these systems failed, students would have had to have been relocated to new living areas costing the university thousands of dollars in lost revenue as well as the cost of the housing.
	Facilities Maintenance & Operations	Rodney Hebert	The university was in dire need of restoring two failing heating systems; one in the Central Garage and one in Student Housing. Result: Had these systems failed, students would have had to have been relocated to new living areas costing the university thousands of dollars in lost revenue as well as the cost of the housing.
	Facilities Maintenance & Operations	Roger Nelsen	The university was in dire need of restoring two failing heating systems; one in the Central Garage and one in Student Housing. Result: Had these systems failed, students would have had to have been relocated to new living areas costing the university thousands of dollars in lost revenue as well as the cost of the housing.
	Facilities Maintenance & Operations	Eric Kissinger	The university was in dire need of restoring two failing heating systems; one in the Central Garage and one in Student Housing. Result: Had these systems failed, students would have had to have been relocated to new living areas costing the university thousands of dollars in lost revenue as well as the cost of the housing.
	Dean of Students Office	Sarah Mills	Sarah administered the National College Health Assessment survey at the Dean of Students Office's request. Result: Sarah obtained a statistically significant sample of UAA students who completed the survey.
	SHCC	Summer Sweet	Summer Sweet is Health Promotions specialist for Student Health and Counseling and leads our team of peer health educators, students engaged in health education on campus. Result: Recognition for her commitment and excellent service to UAA students, which supports student success, especially those in the most need.
	SHCC	Michele Bach	Michele has lengthy service to UAA, over 25 years. Result: The center will function more safely and more efficiently and students will be served better due to this. They also will receive deep discounts to imaging services due the above contract negotiations.
	Disability Support Services	Landon Bennett	Landon is instrumental in increasing recruitment for students with Disabilities. Result: The number of students he interacts with has steadily increased supporting the increase in students registered with the DSS office.
	Disability Support Services	Susan Button	Sue has taken the lead to train an incoming worker in the complex duties of Disability accommodations. Result: DSS benefit from her research and materials for student success.
	Disability Support Services	Laure Macconnell	Annually, the DS office across the state host faculty and staff training related to accessibility and disabilities. Result: Laure used her talents to create a land acknowledgment video to be used at all training.
	Academic Advising	David House	David Is an Academic Advisor with UAA College of Arts and Sciences, specifically serving students in Math and Natural Sciences programs. Result: The support advisors provide is instrumental to student success.
	Academic Advising	Christine Hunt	Christine is an Academic Advisor with UAA College of Arts and Sciences, specifically serving students in Performing and Fine Arts and Humanities programs. Result: The support advisors provide is instrumental to student success.
	Academic Advising	Skyler Gao	Skyler is an Academic Advisor with UAA College of Arts and Sciences, specifically serving students in Humanities and Performing and Fine Arts programs. Result: The support advisors provide is instrumental to student success.
	Dean of Students Office	Trevor Gillespie	This year, the Dean of Students Office was not able to re-hire the Assistant Director of Student Conduct position. Result: Trevor has handled double the number of student conduct cases in his workload this year due to our vacancy.
	Disability Support Services	Karen Haddock	In addition to her regular duties, Karen has become the Disability Single Point of Contact for Residence life. Result: By being the single contact for students with disabilities in residence halls, students are more likely to continue in their education because the are getting reasonable accommodations made in a consistent manner.
	Academic Advising	Debbie Flodin	Debbie is an Academic Advisor with UAA College of Arts and Sciences, specifically serving students in Social Sciences programs. Result: The support advisors provide is instrumental to student success.
	Academic Advising	April Farnsworth	April is an Academic Advisor with UAA College of Arts and Sciences, specifically serving students in Social Sciences programs. Result: The support advisors provide is instrumental to student success.
	Academic Advising	Solana Taylor	Solana is an Academic Advisor with UAA College of Arts and Sciences, specifically serving students in Social Sciences programs. Result: The support advisors provide is instrumental to student success.
	Academic Advising	Jordan Goodwin	Jordan is an Academic Advisor with UAA College of Arts and Sciences, specifically serving students in Math and Natural Sciences programs. Result: The support advisors provide is instrumental to student success.
	General Support Services	Richard Little	Rich has shown exceptional dedication not only to the success of his unit, but to the overall support and promotion of UAA programs. Result: In addition to his specific large format production and installation expertise that has enriched many aspects of the campus and elevated the reputation of the UAA Copy & Print Center, Rich has also been committed to finding efficiencies within UAA's shop and always seeking ways to improve and expand services to better support our UAA community.
	General Support Services	Vincent Martinez	The UAA campus property system was, at best, lagging in processing and a victim of inadequate communication lines with departments. Result: As a result we have seen a much smoother FY25 annual inventory process, records are accurate and easy to find (evidenced by his role in supporting a recent audit), and UAA departments are receiving the support, communication and customer service that they need and deserve.
	UAA Learning Commons	Helen Sale	Helen Sale has been our HR Coordinator for 4+ years and in that time has created processes that streamlined our hiring of 60+ student workers and staff in the Learning Commons. Result: When Helen became our HR Coordinator she immediately began to streamline our job posting, hiring, and managing of our student, temp, and permanent staff positions.
	��ҹ̽�� Airlines Center	Eric Stratton	Eric is an exceptional employee whose dedication shines through in so many events at the ��ҹ̽�� Airlines Center. Eric produces and runs all the media and AV content for the arena, enhancing the experiences of hundreds of thousands of guests each year. Result: Enhanced guest experiences and University reputation.
	��ҹ̽�� Airlines Center	Max Aronson	Max is an exceptional employee whose dedication shines through in so many events at the ��ҹ̽�� Airlines Center. Max is the arena box office manager and routinely works 12-hour days, often on weekends. Result: Enhanced guest experiences and University reputation.
	��ҹ̽�� Airlines Center	Tiffany Lyons	Tiffany is an exceptional employee whose dedication shines through in so many events at the ��ҹ̽�� Airlines Center. She is the arena assistant box office manager and routinely works 12-hour days, often on weekends. Result: Enhanced guest experiences and University reputation.
	Campus Services	YenChiu (Rachel) Chiang	Rachel is the division's Senior Fiscal Officer and she handles a depth and breadth of fiscal and contractual process that's nothing short of incredible. Result: Smooth and sustainable financial processes continue within a multi-million dollar annual portfolio of university enterprises.
	Event Services	Savanna Schmidt	Savanna has brought ideas to our department that have helped our clients' programs and university savings overall. Result: Savanna has provided a lot of effort, and with her creative suggestions and resources to help our clients with 25 LIVE relating to events, this helps with labor savings on both the clients and our department's budgets..
	Faculty Services	Marcie Stavich	Marcie initiated a request to UA Personnel to reconsider a recent personnel directive that would require one job form and appointment letter for each class taught (1:1) by adjuncts. Result: UA HR reversed their 1:1 decision and HRCs can combine assignments on one job form again.
	Archives and Special Collections	Arlene Schmuland	Arlene goes above and beyond for her department. Result: Arlene's work load outcomes exceed any expectation.
	Archives and Special Collections	Becky Butler	Since Becky joined the department of Archives and Special Collections she has gone above and beyond for her department. Result: Becky has helped so much with the leaders archives as well as everyone within the department of archives and special collections.
	Archives and Special Collections	Gwendolyn Higgins	Gwen is a part of a number library committees such as "web team". Result: Gwen has helped so much with the leaders archives as well as everyone within the department of archives and special collections.
	Event Services	Virginia (Vicky) Jimenez	Vicky has helped our department and the university's mission by going above and beyond in helping our student workers be successful and retaining them throughout the fall and spring semester, as well as the summer programs Expected Outcome: Vicky has streamlined the workload with students specifically to help with labor costs, while working diligently around student class schedules and still exceeding customer expectations with great client satisfaction. Result: Vicky has streamlined the workload with students specifically to help with labor costs, while working diligently around student class schedules and still exceeding customer expectations with great client satisfaction.
	��ҹ̽�� Medical Library	Jennifer McKay	The faculty and staff of the ��ҹ̽�� Medical Library provide information and research assistance for healthcare practitioners, researchers, educators, students, and administrators across the state. Result: The ��ҹ̽�� Medical Library contributes to the university institution by bringing in revenue from hospital and/or providers around the state.
	Event Services	John Papasodora	John has helped with many cost-saving ideas and processes for our summer housing program database and to streamline processes. Result: John has demonstrated success with cost savings for Event Services and the University with improved creative thinking, which has allowed positive process implementation in our housing areas.
	Event Services/WWA	David (Wayne) Mitchell	Wayne has brought a significant amount of savings to the WWA team in the Audio Visual area, which has helped WWA and Event Services with costs and savings Expected Outcome: We have increased revenue substantially in the AV rental area due to Wayne's recommendations on a new projector and other AV for the WWA area. Result: We have increased revenue substantially in the AV rental area due to Wayne's recommendations on a new projector and other AV for the WWA area.
	Event Services/WWA	Phillip (Shane) Mitchell	Shane has brought forward many cost-saving ideas for the WWA, with savings on labor and repurposing items instead of buying new. Result: Shane has demonstrated cost avoidance and improved resources with the creative ideas for purchasing that help our WWA and ES budgets.
	Event Services/WWA	Ryan Buen	Ryan has become the 25 Live scheduler for WWA, and has implemented many creative ideas for the WWA team and event-related cost savings for internal campus and external partners. Result: Ryan is exceptional at ensuring we increase revenue in the event area at the WWA, which has made a difference in our budget and made the WWA more profitable.
	College of Health	Trinda Huffman	Trinda's behind-the-scenes efforts have a significant impact on student success, particularly through her work on the School-based Social Work Education and Network Development (SSWEND): Anchorage School District Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant. Trinda ensures students receive uninterrupted financial support – such as stipends and tuition aid payments – by proactively managing internal paperwork and facilitating timely communication between Principal Investigators, the Office of Sponsored Programs, and Financial Aid. Result: Trinda's dedication to service and her commitment to maintaining smooth operations have made a lasting difference in the student experience.
	College of Health	Jackie Adair	Within just weeks of joining the team, Jackie took full ownership of the WWAMI portfolio and began meeting regularly with the WWAMI Director to ensure a smooth transition. Result: What truly sets Jackie apart is her proactive approach to problem-solving and her commitment to supporting faculty.
	Social Work	Mary Dallas Allen	Mary Dallas Allen, PhD, MSW, is a professor in the UAA School of Social Work who has gone above and beyond to make a meaningful impact at UAA through her service as the chair of the UAA Master of Social Work (MSW) program (AY2014-15 to AY2024-25), providing exceptional leadership in student advising, curriculum development, online teaching and learning, online program development, faculty mentoring, program admissions, program assessment, and program accreditation. Result: During Dr. Allen's leadership as the MSW program chair, the UAA MSW program has grown from enrolling about 50 students a year to enrolling 110 students for AY2025-2026. In AY2025-2026, MSW students will be joining the MSW program from 26 communities across ��ҹ̽��.
	Administrative Services	Andrea Miller	Andrea Miller exemplifies the spirit of the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Program through her strategic leadership, student-centered focus, and deep commitment to the university's mission. Result: Cost Savings and Operational Efficiencs; Increased Student Access and Success; Improved Staff Engagement and Mission Alignment; and Leadership and Governance Impact.
	IT Services	Daniel-Jakob Corpuz	Daniel Corpuz has gone above and beyond standard job expectations by playing a key role in streamlining the billing processes at UAA IT Services and consistently delivering exceptional customer service to students. Result: Daniel was instrumental in updating, piloting, and implementing the new FUPLOAD billing process and internal billing dashboard for UAA IT Services.
	UAA/APU Consortium Library	Amy Turnbull	Amy and Stacy are working through the Consortium Library's federal documents, finding electronic equivalents to print resources that are being removed from the collection. Result: Their work frees up space in the library for the student-focused services of the Learning Commons, while preserving valuable government resources in the collection.
	UAA/APU Consortium Library	Stacy Gordon	Amy and Stacy are working through the Consortium Library's federal documents, finding electronic equivalents to print resources that are being removed from the collection. Result: Their work frees up space in the library for the student-focused services of the Learning Commons, while preserving valuable government resources in the collection.
	Office of Student Success	Hannah Cox	Hannah's confidence and professionalism is consistently exceptional and has had a tremendous impact on the Office of Student Success. Result: She has helped coordinate substantial and professional events for our students, providing significant meaningful academic opportunities for our students.
	ADAC-ARCTIC/BEI	Heather Paulsen	Heather was instrumental in helping us seek and secure funding for the much-needed AV/IT project in the Commons Room 107. Result: The cost savings for us are incredible, and it has allowed us to secure funding for Phase 1 of this remodel.
	UAA/APU Consortium Library Technical Services	Cody Swanson	Cody Swanson was brought on board during a difficult transition within the department. Result: Cody's efforts have improved access to library resources, reduced employee workload, and significantly improved department morale.
	Office of Research	Caitlin Kollander	Caitlin Kollander exemplifies exceptional student service through her leadership in the ��ҹ̽��'s PARTE Grant, where she has significantly improved recruitment, mentorship, and professional development for students. Result: Caitlin's work has directly resulted in increased student engagement and recruitment yielding more tuition revenue and spending on the grant, retention, and satisfaction in the PARTE program.
	Office of Research	Joseph Cook	Mr. Joseph Cook demonstrates extraordinary leadership that far exceeds his job description, fulfilling dual roles as Assistant Director of ADAC-ARCTIC and Project Manager for the Office of Research. During a time of significant institutional change and operational pressure, Joe has upheld critical research compliance standards, managed over $15 million in active funding, and supported DHS-affiliated programs without pause or complaint. His tireless commitment, calm problem-solving, and willingness to take on any task sets a standard of service that exemplifies the spirit of Empower ��ҹ̽��. Result: Joe's leadership has ensured continuity of high-stakes research operations, protected UAA's compliance standing with federal sponsors, and enhanced institutional credibility through proactive reporting and team coordination.
	Office of Research	Catherine Warden	Ms. Catherine Warden has demonstrated outstanding leadership as Program Manager overseeing high-stakes federal earmarks involving complex construction and infrastructure development at UAA. Her ability to navigate the intricate landscape of federal compliance, budget management, institutional coordination, and external stakeholder engagement has proven essential to the successful execution of these large-scale projects. Result: Catherine's efforts have directly supported the advancement of critical UAA capital priorities while preserving compliance with federal regulations, timelines, and fiscal stewardship.
	Office of Research	Patrick Sullivan	Mr. Patrick Sullivan has shown exceptional leadership in spearheading UAA's involvement in the U.S. Treasury's State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), a new and complex endeavor involving over $20 million in federal funding. As the lead for this effort, Patrick has built the program from the ground up, navigating evolving federal guidance, building stakeholder trust, and aligning university operations to support small business development and innovation across ��ҹ̽��. His work reflects a visionary approach, strategic execution, and an extraordinary level of commitment to public service and institutional advancement. Result: Through Patrick's leadership, UAA is positioned as a key economic development partner for the State of ��ҹ̽��, delivering federal resources to underserved communities and fostering long-term entrepreneurial growth.
	Office of Research	Jeffrey Kee	Mr. Jeffrey Kee has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and creative vision through his development of the ADAC-ARCTIC website and video content, which rivals the quality of high-end commercial production and exceeds industry standards. His work is not only visually stunning but strategically aligned with UAA's research mission, showcasing the University's Arctic leadership to national and international audiences. Result: Jeffrey's work has positioned ADAC-ARCTIC as a leading example of how federal research centers can communicate impact, engage stakeholders, and represent institutional excellence.
	Applied Environmental Research Center/ADAC-ARCTIC/Center for Strategic Partnerships	Jeff Libby	Mr. Jeffrey Libby exemplifies exceptional leadership through his tireless work as faculty and Principal Investigator managing three federally funded centers while continually initiating new programs to benefit students and the institution. Among his many achievements is the creation of the Arctic Summer Internship Program (ASIP), which not only serves as a pipeline for early-career talent in homeland security but also generates tuition revenue by offering both graduate and undergraduate academic credit. His work reflects sustained commitment, innovation, and an unyielding drive to elevate UAA's academic, research, and student success missions. Result: Mr. Libby's leadership, UAA has secured continued federal investment, expanded its research portfolio, and enhanced its reputation as a national leader in Arctic security and policy education. His development of ASIP bridges the gap between applied research and workforce development while producing an ongoing institutional revenue stream.
	Office of Sponsored Programs	Kelsie Sullivan	Ms. Kelsie Sullivan has demonstrated outstanding innovation and institutional impact through her role as UAA's Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR). Grants are notoriously complex to manage, yet Kelsie has created scalable solutions and training strategies that simplify processes, reduce administrative burden, and improve overall workflow for faculty and staff. Her willingness to support colleagues across units and her commitment to continuous improvement have significantly enhanced UAA's capacity to manage federal funding efficiently and effectively. Result: Kelsie's creative approaches have led to measurable improvements in turnaround time, clarity in the grant submission process, and broader confidence across campus in navigating compliance and proposal development.
	UAA/APU Consortuium Library	Susi Hviid	Susi Hviid is an exceptional addition to Collection Development and has proven to be a collaborative and efficient coworker. Result: Ensures bills are paid on time, materials arrive in good condition, tracks and returns any damaged goods to ensure that money spent by the library on collection materials are cost effective and not wasted.
	Campus Services	Victor Argueta	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Isabel Argueta	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Ryan Leary	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Abraham Boney	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Riley Hamilton	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Byron Turner	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Chris Welbourne	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Omar Jiminez	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Leandro Sanchez-Alfaro	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Heath Franklin	Heath consistently provides cost savings ideas for Event Services with his suggestions to help the university, students and employees. Result: Heath assists with cost avoidance in custodial and maintenance areas, specifically the housing areas for summer conferencing in the res halls and apartments.
	KPC Administrative Services	Victoria Trujillo	Improved the onboarding experience at KPC for new employees, Victoria organized and lead a committee to plan first KPC Onboarding event for new KPC employees. Result: KPC now has a reoccurring Onboarding in person event for new KPC employees. The event received positive feedback from new employees and presenters and improved onboarding experience for employees.
	College of Health Fiscal Office	Katharine Brandenburg	Last spring Shared Services received notice that the department was being de-centralized and people would be returning to Colleges beginning 7/1/25. Result: Because of her positive attitude, we were able to continue to provide support to the College of Health seamlessly and with no interruptions in support.
	UAA IT Service	Alex Taylor	As a Tier 3 (top tier) Technician in UAA's Technical Support Center (TSC), Alex has been vital in assisting with highly challenging technical issues, service owner escalations and end-user communications. Result: The TSC runs at a high level of performance in a great part due to Alex's leadership and dedication in over 18 years with UA.
	UAA IT Service	Roger Peterson	UAA's Technical Support Center's (TSC) mission is to serve our students, faculty and staff by providing excellent technical support services. Result: To measure the impact of their 3 initiatives, the TSC calculates Service-related Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) on a daily basis.
	Office of Student Success	Leesa Arnes	Leesa has created student inventories for CTC and is collaborating with CoEng and CBPP to create student inventories for their programs as well. Result: The Student Inventories save advisors a lot of time of manually auditing each individual student record.
	Office of Student Success	Zlata Lokteva	Zlata is a phenomenal advisor. Result: Improved student retention.
	Office of Student Success	Susan Moran	Susan exemplifies student first advising. Result: Student retention and persistence.
	Office of Student Success	Abbie Shercliffe	Abbie exemplifies the heart of student success through her attention to detail and dedication to her students and colleagues. Result: Abbie has taken a strong role in training new advisors.
	Office of Student Success	Marcy Laufer	What helps our university are well trained new employees. Result: Well trained staff spend less resources and time retraining or relearing information, which saves staff time for both trainee and trainer.
	Office of Student Success	Drew DeJesus	Student-first advising is holistic. Result: Proactive advising helps increase enrollment numbers, which results in tuition revenue generated for the university.
	IT Services	Lorelei Sterling	Lorelei Sterling has demonstrated exceptional innovation and commitment in the development and continuous improvement of the Academic Equipment Loan (AEL) program, which provides free semester-long laptop checkouts to UAA students. Result: By positioning the library as the central hub for equipment pickup and return, Lorelei enabled greater accessibility for students facing transportation and scheduling barriers, while simultaneously minimizing staffing needs.
	IT Services	Jon Ralph	Jon lead an effort to identify a replacement Apple device management platform that was technologically superior and more cost effective. Result: The UA system as a whole will save more than $10,000 a year by migrating to our new Apple management platform and will now have access to new capabilities that will result in more secure and compliant systems which will help the system maintain or expand it's ability to comply with federal requirements for computer security as required for grants and federal student aid..
	Office of Student Success	Kirsten Kensinger	Student-first advising is holistic. Result: Proactive advising helps increase enrollment numbers, which results in tuition revenue generated for the university.
	Office of Student Success	Steve Carlisle	Student-first advising is holistic. Result: Proactive advising helps increase enrollment numbers, which results in tuition revenue generated for the university.
	Office of Student Success	Jared Stapor	Student-first advising is holistic. Result: Proactive advising helps increase enrollment numbers, which results in tuition revenue generated for the university.
	IT Services	Joe Fugere	The IT Experience Management (XM) Team was created in FY24 and was focused on how to improve Student and Employee Experience through technology. Result: From this, the IT XM team created a prioritized list of Student initiatives to improve the Student experience, with some being implemented in FY24 (MFA for Students, SMS Chat for Students, etc.).
	IT Services	Tam Pikey	The IT Experience Management (XM) Team was created in FY24 and was focused on how to improve Student and Employee Experience through technology. Result: From this, the IT XM team created a prioritized list of Student initiatives to improve the Student experience, with some being implemented in FY24 (MFA for Students, SMS Chat for Students, etc.).
	IT Services	Holli Yancey	The IT Experience Management (XM) Team was created in FY24 and was focused on how to improve Student and Employee Experience through technology. Result: From this, the IT XM team created a prioritized list of Student initiatives to improve the Student experience, with some being implemented in FY24 (MFA for Students, SMS Chat for Students, etc.).
	IT Services	Mark Bergman	The IT Experience Management (XM) Team was created in FY24 and was focused on how to improve Student and Employee Experience through technology. Result: From this, the IT XM team created a prioritized list of Student initiatives to improve the Student experience, with some being implemented in FY24 (MFA for Students, SMS Chat for Students, etc.).
	IT Services	Gerald Clark	The IT Experience Management (XM) Team was created in FY24 and was focused on how to improve Student and Employee Experience through technology. Result: From this, the IT XM team created a prioritized list of Student initiatives to improve the Student experience, with some being implemented in FY24 (MFA for Students, SMS Chat for Students, etc.).
	UAA Information Technology Services	Jeramy Galster	I am pleased to recommend Jeramy for his outstanding leadership and technical expertise in IT field services. Result: Cost Avoidance: cost of vendor to install/setup the dental system and the cost of replacement notebooks for College of Health.
	UAA Office of Sponsored Programs	Michael Sentner	Michael has been fundamental in cash receipt related to sponsored projects. Result: Michael has single handedly recovered millions of dollars for UAA that would have otherwise been lost through his collection activities.
	Office of Sponsored Programs	Kristina "Kris" Keays-Gant	Kris has spent the last year developing an extensive library of resources for those interacting with sponsored projects at the University. Result: The resources provided will reduce turnover and increase productivity in research administration.
	Office of Sposored Programs	Miracle Matamu	Miracle is a shining example of someone who works tirelessly in the "shadows" to support a department. Result: Miracle's efforts not only significantly improve the performance and administrative capacity of the OSP team, he also actively supports low audit risk - resulting in fewer disallowed costs (costs that would need to be moved to unrestricted funding).
	UAA IT Service	Joshua Padua	UAA's Technical Support Center's (TSC) mission is to serve our students, faculty and staff by providing excellent technical support services. Result: To measure the impact of their 3 initiatives, the TSC calculates Service-related Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) on a daily basis.
	Campus Services	Trenten Hall	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Exceptional Service to Students.
	Campus Services	Hellen Fleming	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	Campus Services	Louis Amado	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of our in-house custodial and maintenance team. Result: Clean, warm, and inviting appearance of residential and arena venues at UAA for our students and guests.
	Campus Services	Jon Dyson	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	Campus Services	Taylor Hansen	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	Campus Services	Jacob Mikula	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	��ҹ̽�� Airlines Center	Veronica Wright	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	Campus Services	Victoria Hillwig	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	Campus Services	Isabel Mead	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	Campus Services	Cindy Marshall	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	Campus Services	Julie Weber	Employee is an exceptionally reliable and dedicated member of the Campus Services team. Result: Consistently high level of business process operations supporting a multitude of revenue generating auxiliary initiatives that ultimately enrich the student, faculty, and staff experience at UAA.
	Applied Environmental Research Center/ADAC-ARCTIC/Center for Strategic Partnerships	Cameron Wilson	Mr. Cameron Wilson has gone far beyond the expectations of his role by leading and operationalizing UAA's wastewater project with exceptional dedication and skill. Not only has he ensured the technical success of this federally funded initiative, but he has also transformed it into a hands-on learning opportunit. Result: Thanks to Cameron's leadership, the wastewater project has advanced on time, on budget, and in full compliance, while simultaneously serving as a model for interdisciplinary, experiential education.
	Office of Research	Aaron Dotson	Dr. Aaron Dotson has demonstrated exceptional leadership in navigating UAA's colleges through periods of fiscal challenge by proactively addressing budget deficits, improving award spending practices, and fostering a culture of financial transparency. His work goes well beyond his formal responsibilities. Aaron's strategic guidance and inclusive approach have been instrumental in improving institutional resilience and empowering others to make informed, responsible financial decisions. Result: Dr. Dotson's leadership has helped prevent the lapse of critical award funding, improved grant and budget planning across colleges, and built long-term institutional capacity for better financial management. By bridging gaps between finance, operations, and academic units, he has created a more collaborative environment grounded in transparency and accountability. His efforts align strongly with the Empower ��ҹ̽�� initiative by strengthening both operational effectiveness and institutional trust.
	UAA Information Technology Services	Chase Bieling	Chase joined the IT Services Field Services team about a year ago and quickly established himself as a top performer. Result: Improved client satisfaction and retention.
	UAA Information Technology Services	John Spencer	John joined the IT Services Field Services team just seven months ago and has made an immediate, positive impact. Result: Customer satisfaction is up with John's rapport with staff and faculty.
	UAA IT Service	Allan Samuelson	UAA's Technical Support Center's (TSC) mission is to serve our students, faculty and staff by providing excellent technical support services. Result: To measure the impact of their 3 initiatives, the TSC calculates Service-related Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) on a daily basis.
	UAA IT Service	Christopher James Elardo	UAA's Technical Support Center's (TSC) mission is to serve our students, faculty and staff by providing excellent technical support services. Result: To measure the impact of their 3 initiatives, the TSC calculates Service-related Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) on a daily basis.
	UAA IT Service	Matthew Miller	UAA's Technical Support Center's (TSC) mission is to serve our students, faculty and staff by providing excellent technical support services. Result: To measure the impact of their 3 initiatives, the TSC calculates Service-related Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) on a daily basis.
	UAA IT Service	Aaron Ledlow	UAA's Technical Support Center's (TSC) mission is to serve our students, faculty and staff by providing excellent technical support services. Result: To measure the impact of their 3 initiatives, the TSC calculates Service-related Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) on a daily basis.
	Office of Research	Kathleen Elliott	Kathy Elliott has done an excellent job streamlining our SPAS queue requests for travel. Result: By doing this she has been able to keep our queue clean and the travelers are extremely appreciative this method as they rely on her assistance in managing these processes that they are not familiar with.
	Office of Research	Beverly Daigle	Beverly Daigle consistently goes above and beyond her role. Result: Her efficiency and the excellent she delivers to our group has alleviated stop gaps and made it easier for us to focus on complex issues that require our attention without the need to backtrack queue items for processing.
	ARLIS	Sonia Barajas	Sonia provides exceptional interlibrary loan services to hundreds of libraries within and outside of ��ҹ̽�� and the United States. Result: Information materials about ��ҹ̽�� land and resource management and development are made widely available throughout the state of ��ҹ̽�� and across the world..
	ARLIS	Edward Kazzzimir	Ed's management of the Technical Services Department is exemplary. Result: Ed's outstanding work makes thousands of information materials about ��ҹ̽�� land and resource management discoverable to patrons across ��ҹ̽�� and beyond.
	ARLIS	Clarissa Davis	Reese has exhibited exceptional performance with collections care and maintenance. Result: Her highly detailed and knowledgeable approach with collections across ARLIS facilitates their broad access by the public and private sectors, including agencies and the University.
	Athletics	Ryan McWilliams	Coach Ryan McWilliams goes above and beyond for his student-athletes. Result: I would like to nominate Head Track and Field/Cross Country Coach Ryan McWilliams for the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentives program to help recognize his tireless efforts to support students at the University of ��ҹ̽�� Anchorage.
	ARLIS	Caroline Crowell	Caroline provides exceptional reference and research support to public and private sectors of ��ҹ̽��. Result: Caroline's exemplary reference services supports state and federal agencies, natural resources consultants and interest groups, as well as UA students, faculty, and researchers.
	ARLIS	William McGovern	William does exceptional original cataloging of materials about ��ҹ̽��'s natural resources. Result: William's outstanding skills with original cataloging makes invaluable materials about ��ҹ̽�� available to the broader public and private sectors of ��ҹ̽��.
	ARLIS	Brandy Watts	For nine months I worked with the VC of Research, UA general counsel, OSP Post Award Manager as well as with ARLIS federal agencies and DOI to try and secure ARLIS Year 2 funding. Result: Through persistent effort, perseverance, and thoughtful collaboration, Year 2 funding was awarded to ARLIS allowing it to remain open and materials about ��ҹ̽��'s land and natural resources to continue to be available to the people of ��ҹ̽��.
	UAA Information Technology Services	Christopher Huston	I want to recognize Christopher Huston for his exceptional work and personal investment modernizing and securing the foundation of UAA's website to date. Result: His behind-the-scenes innovation is quietly transforming how we operate and connect with our audiences.
	Consortium Library	Josey Baty	I am nominating the entire Access Services Deparment at the Consortikum Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	Consorium Library	Eliza Allison	I am nominating the entire Access Services Deparment at the Consortium Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	Consortium Library	Angelica Del Angel	I am nominating the entire Access Services Department at the Consortium Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	Consortium Library	Gina Hays	I am nominating the entire Access Services Department at the Consortium Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	Consortium Library	Zachary Harder	I am nominating the entire Access Services Department at the Consortium Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	Consortium Library	Ashley Luzader	I am nominating the entire Access Services Department at the Consortium Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	Consortium Library	Savannah Clary	I am nominating the entire Access Services Department at the Consortium Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	Consortium Library	Ryan O'Mara	I am nominating the entire Access Services Department at the Consortium Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	Consortium Library	Elana Yanusz	I am nominating the entire Access Services Department at the Consortium Library. Result: Making sure that access to collections is sustained, while also ensuring the building is ready will allow for this project to proceed without delays, while also allowing for students, staff, and faculty to complete their research and class assignments.
	UAA Infromation Technology Systems	Chad Solberg	The UAA Web Applications team has demonstrated outstanding innovation and collaboration in developing a sustainable, stable custom web application to manage student clinical placements in partnership with the College of Health. Result: The team's work is resulting in substantial cost avoidance by reducing the need for ongoing IT intervention and custom code modifications, which previously required specialized internal resources and added lead time.
	UAA Information Technology Services	Sikharin Kitchpanich	The UAA Web Applications team has demonstrated outstanding innovation and collaboration in developing a sustainable, stable custom web application to manage student clinical placements in partnership with the College of Health. Result: The team's work is resulting in substantial cost avoidance by reducing the need for ongoing IT intervention and custom code modifications, which previously required specialized internal resources and added lead time.
	UAA Information Technology Services	Rory Main	The UAA Web Applications team has demonstrated outstanding innovation and collaboration in developing a sustainable, stable custom web application to manage student clinical placements in partnership with the College of Health. Result: The team's work is resulting in substantial cost avoidance by reducing the need for ongoing IT intervention and custom code modifications, which previously required specialized internal resources and added lead time.
	UAA Information Technology Systems	Cale Cornichuck	The UAA Web Applications team has demonstrated outstanding innovation and collaboration in developing a sustainable, stable custom web application to manage student clinical placements in partnership with the College of Health. Result: The team's work is resulting in substantial cost avoidance by reducing the need for ongoing IT intervention and custom code modifications, which previously required specialized internal resources and added lead time.
	CTC Dean's office	Stephanie Ahern	Stephanie has been instrumental in the successful implementation of our new fiscal department since the beginning of this fiscal year. Result: Her actions have led to CTC being able to reduce the deficit by nearly 800k.
	CTC	Cynthia Weinstein	Cindy's drive and initiative are exceptional; she consistently takes ownership of challenges and seeks effective solutions. Result: By proactively solving problems and streamlining administrative processes, Cindy saves time for herself and others which allows more focus on higher impact tasks.
	Academic Advising	Misti Hopkins	Misti consistently meets with our SSS Emerging Scholars Academy students on top of her set advisor caseload, even during irregular business hours. Result: All active 2024 ESA students have been registered for the Fall 2025 semester. Our ESA cohort of 30 is filled halfway as of May 2025. Students have received multiple forms of support such as letters of recommendations, appeals being reviewed and submitted on time, working on SAPs even after hours for her caseload. ESA cohorted classes for Fall 2025 have been scheduled and are in the UA system already for 2025 ESA students to register.
	ANSEP	Stephanie Fain	Stephanie Fain has demonstrated exceptional leadership in developing scalable innovations that directly support university operations, student success, and program efficiency. Result: 1. Employee Effort / Resources Improved 2. Cost Avoidance 3. Potential Revenue or Institutional Value Gained
	CTC	Steffany Willhauck	Steffany is primarily the CTC HRC and she brings a high level of knowledge and attention to detail to her role, demonstrating a strong commitment to ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. Result: By being proactive, she is reducing/prevending errors and compliance issues for the college.
	UAA Financial Services	Jamie Johnston-Eddy	Jamie, along with the two other Bursar's, was instrumental in implementing an automatic student refund process. Result: UAA processes thousands of refunds a year.
	UAA Financial Services	Kathleen Lardner	Kathy is the UAA Travel supervisor. Result: Kathy not only provides exceptional customer service to anyone that needs it, but she has undoubtedly saved the University many thousands of dollars in knowing, applying and following complex travel regulations (both UA and federal) to each and every travel instance.
	Office of the Bursar	Christina Pili	I am pleased to nominate Christina for the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Program Award for her unwavering dedication to supporting our students. Result: Christina's consistent reliability and proactive approach significantly enhance the student experience and serve as a model for her peers.
	Office of the Bursar	Natalie Kowal	I am pleased to nominate Natalie for the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Program Award for her unwavering dedication to supporting our students and staff. Result: Natalie's consistent reliability and proactive approach significantly enhance the student and experience and serve as a model for her staff.
	Academic Advising, OSS	Carey Brown	Carey Brown has been an employee of UAA for over 17 years and has had an immense impact on College of Health Students in that time. Result: Carey's institutional knowledge and care for students makes him an invaluable part of my team and of the UAA community.
	Academic Advising, OSS	Andrea Hudson	Andrea was promoted to Senior Advisor last year and has gone above and beyond in her role. Result: Andrea provides exceptional service and care to our students, and ensures our newest team members are taught to do the same.
	Academic Advising, OSS	Jennifer Spencer	Jennifer has been growing as both a professional and as a leader on my team over this past year. Result: Jennifer is an excellent community member who demonstrates to my other employees how they can bring their skills and passions to work in ways that help the whole group.
	Academic Advising, OSS	Nick Aufderheide	Nick has been an invaluable team member who has really stepped up to help with coverage of student appointments this year. Result: Even with an increased caseload, Nick manages all of their appointments and provides excellent service to all students who need it.
	Academic Advising, OSS	Ben Kraft	Ben has been an amazing advisor and advises for some of our most competitive programs. Result: Several students have been connected to important mental health resources and have been able to move past challenges thanks to Ben's care and knowledge.
	Academic Advising, OSS	PaLamin Sarr	PaLamin has been an excellent advocate for his student and has really stepped up in the past few months to improve his advising skills. Result: PaLamin's relationship building skills have set an example for the rest of the team and for the students he works with.

University - level Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Recipients
University	Department	Recipient	Summary
University of ��ҹ̽�� Fairbanks	University Advancement	Jeanette Baker	Jenn is one of the most respected voices at UAF and a leader in the digital space across campus. Result: I would like for Jenn to receive recognition of her efforts in the recent months.
	University Advancement	Karen Tomasik	Karen is an exempt employee who was part of the University Relations team that took on updating UAF websites in the wake of the federal mandates regarding DEI language and the resulting requirement by the UA Board of Regents that references to diversity, equity and inclusion be removed from all university websites. Result: UAF met a very tight deadline to complete this work.
	University Advancement	Sherrie Roberts	Sherrie has been a beacon of light for UAF for the past 10+ years. Result: I am hoping for Sherrie to receive recognition of her hard work these last three months.
	University Advancement	Kristin Summerlin	Kristin is an exempt employee who was part of the University Relations team that took on updating UAF websites in the wake of the federal mandates regarding DEI language and the resulting requirement by the UA Board of Regents that references to diversity, equity and inclusion be removed from all university websites. Result: UAF met a very tight deadline to complete this work.
	University Advancement	Eric Engman	Eric has been leading the charge for UAF as the UA System looks to close its google photos access for units. Result: I would like to see Eric receive recognition of his hard work and customer service suppoort.
	University Advancement	Sam Bishop	Sam Bishop is one of the unsung hero's of UAF. Result: I would like to award Sam with recognition for all he does to help UAF.
	Development	Allison Carter	Allison has gone above and beyond to respond to scholarship needs for UAF students, departments and leadership. Result: Enrollment improvements are a direct result of increased sholarships.
	University Advancement	Emily Moretz	Emily has been an exceptional employee over the two years she has been at UAF constantly updating event digital screens and athletics flyers along with student focused event promotions. Result: I would like to award Emily a recognition bonus for her efforts in making UAF better for our students.
	University Advancement	Kyle Agustines	Kyle has been a visionary when it comes to updating our student recruitment materials and branding. Result: I would like to recognize Kyle's work with an award.
	University Advancement	Isabella Colello	Isabella has only been with us for a short period of time and has already established a clear level of expectation when it comes to visual storytelling at UAF. Result: I am looking to award Isabella for her hard work and in recognition of her efforts at UAF.
	University Advancement	Danny Vaziri	Danny has been the leading project management expert in Asana at UAF for the greater part of a year. Result: I would like to recognize Danny with an award for his dedication to UAF and exceptional work ethic.
	Development	Judy Dellinger	Judy Dellinger has innovated the mid-level giving program, connecting with donors who give at the leadership level. Result: Due to Judy's work, UAF now has a scalable midlevel giving program, complete with data, a tracking system and best practices.
	College of Liberal Arts	Jennifer Hoppough	Jennifer Hoppough has gone above and beyond in her dedication to faculty services at UAF. Result: Jennifer's mentorship reduced duplicated effort and prevented delays in faculty processing, saving an estimated 100+ administrative hours across departments.
	Environmental Community Partnership	Fischer Ridge	Fischer Ridge consistently demonstrates exceptional performance and is a valued member of our team. Result: Fischer has created a top-notch Water Quality Program within the Environmental Community Partnership on Fort Wainwright, and has managed to grow the program budget from an initial $500,000 to $1.2 million since inception, Aug 2023 to today.
	Alumni Relations	Felicia Burud	Felicia has been instrumental in the success of the development and alumni relations team during a recent period of leadership transition. Result: Due to her willingness to respond to internal changes in leadership and funding availability, Felicia has taken on additional responsibilities with fewer employees in the department.
	Environmental Community Partnership	Samuel Coffman	Sam Coffman is instrumental in the success of the Cultural Resources Department. Result: Overall budget increase to 1.2 million for our Cultural Resources Department.
	College of Liberal Arts	Maria Norris	Isabel Norris consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication that elevates every aspect of her role. Result: Isabel's process improvements have resulted in reduced response times, improved workload management, and a more user-friendly experience for those she supports.
	College of Liberal Arts	Ellen Cruse	Ellen Cruse has been a dedicated member of the UAF community since 2013, serving with exceptional professionalism and care as a Human Resources Coordinator. Result: Ellen's efforts have streamlined hiring and job setup processes, reducing delays and ensuring compliance with university policies.
	College of Liberal Arts	Heather Foltz	Heather Foltz has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and performance in her role as Fiscal Manager for the College of Liberal Arts, far exceeding expectations during times of critical department need. Result: Amidst ongoing budget constraints within the College of Liberal Arts, Heather's leadership has been critical in navigating financial challenges with integrity and foresight.
	College of Liberal Arts	Miriam Stelges	Miriam Stelges has consistently demonstrated extraordinary dedication and resilience as an HR Coordinator during a time of significant budget constraints and critical departmental needs. Result: Miriam's efforts have enabled CLA to maintain staffing support for essential functions despite ongoing budget cuts and hiring limitations.
	College of Liberal Arts	Valia Casey	Valia Casey exemplifies the values of dedication, teamwork, and excellence through her long-standing service to UAF across multiple units. Result: Valia's collaborative approach has enhanced coordination across units, reduced processing delays, and improved the overall quality and compliance of grant management.
	University Advancement	Kara Nash	As our UAF events coordinator Kara has excelled in listening to students, faculty and staff and providing events that meet or exceed those expectations. Result: Greater attendance at UAF events and significant revenue gains from her involvement in the Blue and Gold fundraising event.
	Museum	Elisabeth Padilla	The Museum Education and Public Programs team is small but extremely effective. Result: Elisabeth's dedication allows us to uphold our quality reputation, a pillar of the Empower ��ҹ̽�� vision, for high quality education and service.
	Museum	Emily Koehler-Platten	The Museum Education and Public Programs team is small but extremely effective. Result: Emily's dedication allows us to uphold our quality reputation, a pillar of the Empower ��ҹ̽�� vision, for high quality education and service.
	Museum	Nan Werdin-Pfisterer	The Museum Education and Public Programs team is small but extremely effective. Result: Nan's dedication allows us to uphold our quality reputation, a pillar of the Empower ��ҹ̽�� vision, for high quality education and service.
	Museum	Della Hall	Della goes above and beyond to offer transformative student experiences through the Museum Research Apprenticeship Program and multiple student volunteer opportunities in the Fine Art Collection. Result: Della's hard work and determination to engage students in the workings of the Fine Arts Collection add value to the student experience at UAF.
	Museum	Aelin Allegood	Aelin's efforts to engage the philanthropic community have resulted in the strongest donor relationships the museum has enjoyed in quite a number of years. Result: The tangible benefits of Aelin's hard work can be seen throughout the museum.
	Museum	Christina Parks-Zlinszky	Exceptional behavior and providing leadership can both be accurately applied to Christina. Result: As far as the financials go, Christina's ability to quickly pivot and get a museum-operated cafe up and running paid off, earning the museum more than expected.
	Instituted of Agriculture Natural Resources and Extension	Jozef Slowik	With a small amount of special funding from a grantor, Joey was able to set up a small DNA processing lab for our program to help improve the quality of insect identifications and reduce the cost to our program of sending specimens to outside labs for processing. Result: Joey's DNA processing work has been used to corroborate difficult morphological identifications of insects for our program.
	Instituted of Agriculture Natural Resources and Extension	Alexandria Wenninger	A large portion of what we do is collaborate with other entities on collection of information on new species to ��ҹ̽��. Result: Alex has published several new findings of species in the ��ҹ̽�� Entomological Society Newsletter, co-authored peer reviewed publications, and reports provided to partner agencies.
	Museum	Emilie Nelson	Emilie's primary role at the museum is HR coordinator, but she goes above and beyond in many ways. Result: We want to recognize Emilie as a linchpin to the museum's operational success.
	Office of Management & Budget	Shelby Langdon	Shelby took it upon herself to learn Power BI, a database that can automate multiple and complex data sets to create a collection of comprehensive financial reports by unit. Result: For Power BI: She spent roughly 12 hours training on LinkedIn Learning and is now able to create roughly 30 unit reports in less than 2 hours, as opposed to the former manual method which took about 10 hours.
	Office of Management & Budget	Amber Leytem	Amber led the implementation of a new facilitation methodology to help departments develop strategic plans, a service now in high demand at UAF. Result: Based on feedback from an ��ҹ̽��n consultant who charges $150-200 per hour, the value of PIT Crew's combined efforts can be estimated by calculating the approximate hours spent on our active and recently closed projects during FY25.
	Office of Management & Budget	Derek Bastille	Derek has single-handedly automated several systems for many departments across UAF and the UA System including Admissions, Registrar, Financial Aid, Geophysical Institute (GI), ��ҹ̽�� Center for Energy & Power (ACEP) and the UA Data Warehouse, to name a few. Result: These processes eliminate the need for a single person (or teams) to manually perform data extractions and uploads on a repetitive basis.
	Museum	Mallory Gulbranson	Mallory's breadth of knowledge at UAMN is unrivaled. Result: In the last month alone, I've witnessed Mallory enthusiastically lend her talents to three projects/departments that are well outside the scope of her job duties with the immediate result being that several difficult projects were accomplished much more quickly thanks to her help.
	UAF Enrollment Management Communications	Megan Sfraga	Ms. Sfrega led the strategy and implementation of a new, rebuilt data infrastructure and communication process for qualifying new students to be automatically admitted to the Honors College and Climate Scholars Program, and automated communication to students to welcome them to the program and provide next steps. Result: This revolutionized the honors college admissions process, making it scalable to accommodate a growth of double new students every year for three years.
	Office of Management & Budget	Samara Taber	Samara joined UAF's Office of Management & Budget in 2023 as the project manager for the Continuous Improvement Program, with a focus on expanding PIT Crew's capacity and impact. Result: Based on feedback from an ��ҹ̽��n consultant who charges $150-200 per hour, the value of PIT Crew's combined efforts can be estimated by calculating the approximate hours spent on our active and recently closed projects during FY25.
	Office of Management & Budget	Brittany Van Eck	The UAF Process Improvement & Training (PIT) Crew was created in 2012 and is composed of dedicated volunteers across UAF who successfully manage numerous high-impact projects across the university. Result: By committing to PIT Crew as a trained facilitator and volunteering time and expertise throughout the year, it is estimated that Brittany saves UAF a minimum of roughly $7,000 dollars annually by avoiding the need to hire external consultants for process improvement or strategic planning work.
	Financial & Business Services	Briana Walters	Briana Walters is more than deserving of this award. Result: A true leader and always putting others first.
	Office of Management & Budget	Jennifer Harris	The UAF Process Improvement & Training (PIT) Crew was created in 2012 and is composed of dedicated volunteers across UAF who successfully manage numerous high-impact projects across the university. Result: In FY25, her efforts directly supported enhancements to the annual Property Inventory process and space data management, streamlining processes for asset tracking and allocation.
	Office of Management & Budget	Kel Gitter	The UAF Process Improvement & Training (PIT) Crew was created in 2012 and is composed of dedicated volunteers across UAF who successfully manage numerous high-impact projects across the university. Result: By committing to PIT Crew as a trained facilitator and volunteering time and expertise throughout the year, it is estimated that Kel saves UAF a minimum of roughly $7,000 dollars annually by avoiding the need to hire external consultants for process improvement or strategic planning work.
	Office of Management & Budget	Brianna Pauling	The UAF Process Improvement & Training (PIT) Crew was created in 2012 and is composed of dedicated volunteers across UAF who successfully manage numerous high-impact projects across the university. Result: By committing to PIT Crew as a trained facilitator and volunteering time and expertise throughout the year, it is estimated that Brianna saves UAF a minimum of roughly $7,000 dollars annually by avoiding the need to hire external consultants for process improvement or strategic planning work.
	Office of Management & Budget	Donald Crocker	The UAF Process Improvement & Training (PIT) Crew was created in 2012 and is composed of dedicated volunteers across UAF who successfully manage numerous high-impact projects across the university. Result: By committing to PIT Crew as a trained facilitator and volunteering time and expertise throughout the year, it is estimated that Donald saves UAF a minimum of roughly $7,000 dollars annually by avoiding the need to hire external consultants for process improvement or strategic planning work.
	Museum	Aren Gunderson	Aren manages the UA Museum's Mammal Collection, which includes the largest research collection of marine mammals in the world. Result: This award would send a clear message that Aren's contributions well above and beyond standard job requirements are recognized for the very real and lasting effects they have had and will continue to have well after he has retired (he is fully committed to UAF).
	Music	Jaunelle Celaire	SMA is an intensive two week program of music education for middle & high school students on the beautiful University of ��ҹ̽�� Fairbanks campus. Result: There are countless hours put in to running this Academy that begin after the camp ends until it starts the next year.
	Rural Student Services	Amy Marsh	Through Amy's intentional relationship-building and ability to identify and address student needs, she has created a supportive and impactful advising experience – even in a challenging environment. Result: Collaboration is one of Amy's greatest strengths and a vital asset as an RSS advisor.
	Rural Student Services	Donald Crocker	For 14 years, Donald Crocker has dedicated his career to supporting students at UAF, primarily as an advisor for first-year students, Student Support Services, and Rural Student Services– programs that provide critical assistance to those who need extra support. Result: Donald's commitment has directly contributed to increased student retention and graduation rates at UAF.
	IANRE	Casey Matney	Casey has taken on several projects that are expanding and streamlining our program's ability to assist both the general public and professional growers with their agricultural endeavors. Result: These tools Casey is creating provide support for both home gardeners and the broader agricultural industry in ��ҹ̽��, steps which help boost ��ҹ̽��'s food sovereignty.
	IANRE	Gino Graziano	Gino's research into invasive plant management and ways to effectively manage invasive plants with minimal impact to crops is incredibly important for ��ҹ̽��. Result: Gino's work is being used by many stakeholders across the state, including agricultural producers, landowners, pesticide applicators, and invasive plant managers across state, federal, and private agencies.
	IANRE	Glenna Gannon	Ms. Gannon has demonstrated leadership and dedication to UAF and the State by responding to student needs - and the needs of ��ҹ̽�� - by building a high-latitude agriculture and food systems education and workforce preparedness program from the ground up. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Gannon applied her 5+ years of experience working for the Tribes Extension Program and collaborated with a colleague at the Georgeson Botanical Garden to respond to student requests for agricultural education and a place to learn how to grow food. Since that first pilot program, Gannon has continued to grow what is now the "��ҹ̽�� Harvest Collaborative", a placed-based, hands-on learning program that teaches UAF students and volunteers about how to grow food in northern climates, and provides educational programming about the ��ҹ̽��n food system - how our food goes from seed, to market, to waste-streams. She and colleagues have raised over $50,000 in public awards, subaward contracts, and through fundraising with the UAF Foundation to purchase program supplies, equipment and hire seasonal staff. Gannon's efforts have created partnerships beyond UAF. Result: This effort demonstrates Gannon's dedication to responding to stakeholder's needs and intent to address some of the gaps in academic programming that were left in the wake of no longer having a Sustainable Agriculture degree at UAF.
	IANRE	Caley Gasch	Caley deserves this award for going above and beyond, she works everyday to the fullest, applying for funding and research opportunities, finding ways to improve operations in the laboratory and experiment stations, as well as contributing to CES publications to better educate and inform the community. Result: Caley's actions have led to increased agriculture and soil health research, working towards a future of sustainability and food security in ��ҹ̽��.
	Planning, Analysis, and Institutional Research	Julia Manfredini	Julia provides exemplary service supporting student success through creative presentation of student success measures, particularly for accreditation and academic program review. Result: The work she does informs a range of student services and business processes intended to transform student experiences with the specific goals of increasing pass rates in gatekeeper courses, increasing retention, and ultimately increasing graduation rates.
	URSA	Anne Triest	Anne Triest provides an outstanding example of student service at UAF. Result: 1) Anne's efforts have built an active study away community offering belonging on campus and contributing to student retention. 2) Anne contributed to faculty senate motion 2024/2025-287-5 (accepted) which not only brings UAF into conformity with grade policies among other major universities, but also allows a sort of safety net or flexibility for students who opt to engage in this high impact, but sometimes challenging, experience. 3) Anne's professional presence on campus is a benefit to the university community at large and a superior example of staff leadership.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Management	Ashley Munro	Ashley has been volunteering as a dedicated PIT Crew member since the program's inception in 2012, regularly facilitating dozens of process improvement projects over the past 13 years. Result: Development of the Registrar's Office Strategic Plan and providing implementation accountability support: these improvements to the Registrar's workflows make academic record-keeping more efficient and accessible for students and faculty.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Management	Amy Bristor	Amy has been volunteering as an active PIT Crew facilitator since 2019. Result: The Affiliate Identity Provisioning process optimizes the provisioning/access process to ensure faster, more accurate identity management across departments.
	International Arctic Research Center	Sara Di Martino	Sarah Di Martino has implemented a grant startup practice which sets up the unit PI's for success. Result: The grants world is not always straightforward and it the complexity has been compounded by recent federal changes.
	Environmental Community Partnership	Amber Hernandez	Amber Hernandez has been instrumental to the overall success of the Environmental Community Partnership. Result: Amber's dedication and direct fiscal support is integral to our productivity and ability to meet the needs of Fort Wainwright's Environmental Division; directly supports eight Departments with resourcing needs of over 3 million every year and growing.
	Environmental Community Partnership	Kristin Allison	Kristin Allison has been instrumental in the development of the Environmental Community Partnership between UAF and the Environmental Division at Fort Wainwright. Result: Kristin's dedicated effort allows the ECP to meet demands that are constantly evolving and which requires adaptability and flexibility in response.
	Geophysical Institute	Jessica Armstrong	In her role on the UAF R1 Working Group to Prioritize Tracking of R1 Metrics, Jessica has used her varied experience across UAF and her computer programming/database development skills, to identify, develop and implement an elegant solution to improve tracking of graduate student data across UAF. Result: We expect the outcomes of Jessica' s vision, leadership and completion of her graduate student tracking project to be: (1) hundreds of hours of staff time saved each year across the 19 graduate programs across UAF, and (2) a centralized tool to enable UAF graduate program coordinators, department chairs, and Deans to better track their students progress.
	CBSM	Mark Herrmann	We want to recognize Dr. Mark Herrmann for his hard work in coordinating the accreditation renewal effort for the College of Business and Security Management. Dr. Herrmann worked tirelessly during the entire AACSB accreditation 5-year cycle to make sure that CBSM was meeting or exceeding accreditation standards. Dr. Herrmann's expertise in accreditation standards, ability to synthesize data, and attention to detail were instrumental in compiling the data and writing the interim and final reports that led to a positive accreditation outcome. While maintenance of accreditation requires a team effort of the entire college, Dr. Herrmann's leadership and initiative were integral to successfully renewing our AACSB accreditation. Result: The successful renewal of accreditation provides strong assurance to our students and stakeholders that CBSM continues to provide quality academic programs, with an emphasis on continuous improvement.
	CBSM	Amanda Langhorst	Ms. Amanda Langhorst serves as a term instructor and the Program Director for Applied Management at the College of Business and Security Management. Ms. Langhorst continues to be a top performer in every aspect of her job and goes above and beyond to provide assistance to her students and co-workers. Of note, Amanda was recently recognized by Pepperdine University's Grazadio School of Business (where she is currently completing her doctorate in business administration), with the George Award, for her outstanding leadership in the classroom. She likewise served as a keynote speaker during the UAF staff awards ceremony where she shared observations and lessons learned in career development. Amanda is and will be the future of our college. Result: Ms. Langhorst provides outstanding leadership as an instructor and as a colleague. Her passion is to help students identify and reach their career goals. She has been instrumental in increasing our student enrollment and growing the Bachelors of Applied Management program.
	Environmental Community Partnership	Kenna Metivier	Kenna Metivier has been instrumental in the development of the Environmental Community Partnership between UAF and the Environmental Division on Fort Wainwright. Result: Since inception Kenna has gone out of her way to ensure that the leadership and departments at the newly created ECP, have the resources needed to operate efficiently.
	Institute of Arctic Biology	Julie Benson	Julie Benson is the Associate Director of ��ҹ̽�� INBRE, a biomedical research capacity building program. Result: The primary outcome of Julie's effort was that the conference brought biomedical researchers and students together and boosted the reputation of both ��ҹ̽�� and the university.
	PAIR	Chantelle McGinnis	Chantelle provides timely data in support of critical UAF academic affairs needs, including academic program review, accreditation, and mission fulfillment indicators. Result: The support that Chantelle has provided has allowed UAF to reach MSI status, thereby providing additional funding access for a number of UAF researchers.
	Accreditation	Libby Macdonald	Libby has lead the implementation of RSI (Regular and Substantive Interaction) which is a federal requirement for courses taught by distance delivery. Result: The primary outcomes from Libby's efforts is that of efficiency - making reporting more efficient, which saves deans, faculty, and staff significant time in completing compliance-related activities.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Management	Marcia Cassino	Marcia serves as the administrative support person for the VCSAEM, as well as for all directors within SAEM. Result: Marcia sets a high standard for excellence in service to our students.
	URSA	Erin Kirchner	Erin has led efforts to increase undergraduate participation in research and scholarly activity through her role as URSA Coordinator and now Assistant Director. Result: Erin's efforts to enhance engagement with undergraduate research and scholarly activity have a direct impact on student retention – an outcome strongly correlated with continued enrollment and associated tuition revenues.
	Accreditation	Rochelle Rodak	I recommend Rochelle for this award for her consistent examples of servant leadership. Result: Within Accreditation, Rochelle has streamlined decision-making and provided trainings and resources that have contributed to more efficient processes.
	Kuskokwim Campus	Daylon Rogers	Daylon has always advocated for representation and modernization of IT at the Kuskokwim Campus, making his appeals to NTS and finding much success and rapport. Result: Due to Daylon's hard work and eye for excellence, the IT department has never had a higher reputation.
	Nanook Technology Services System Engineering	Gabriel Witte	Gabe Witte exemplifies scalable innovation at UAF. Result: By being adaptable to each office's situation, Gabe ensures IT projects are completed on time and with the buy in of the office responsible.
	Office of the Bursar	Meagan Janssen	Meagan played a pivotal role in streamlining the student account payment process by refining the payment form and effectively communicating the new procedures to other departments. Result: By streamlining the payment form and clarifying procedures, Meagan has decreased the time staff spend on handling payment inquiries and issues.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Mgmt	Valerie Gifford	Dr. Gifford's efforts to expand student offerings in mental and physical health at UAF via the implementation of TimelyCare, address a crucial need in an area that has historically been under-resourced and unable to meet growing demand. By prioritizing this expansion, the university can better support student well-being, enhance academic performance, and promote overall campus health. These initiatives will not only improve the student experience but also strengthen the university's reputation as a leader in providing comprehensive student services. Result: The expansion of mental and physical health offerings at UAF is expected to generate positive outcomes in multiple areas.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Management	Kaydee Van Flein	Kaydee Van Flein has built the ORCA team to better serve the evolving needs of our community. Result: Kaydee and her team have intervened to de-escalate situations that previously would have cost the university much more in resources and lost tuition revenue.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Mgmt	Teddi Walker	Students who live on campus tend to be more successful than those who do not. Result: Teddi has demonstrated exceptional contributions to UAF's Residence Life (RL) program.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Management	Holly McDonald	Holly McDonald has helped our Registrar's Office modernize the student experience. Result: Holly's work has led to improvements in retention and recruitment on the order of hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional revenue while staying student focused.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Management	Timothy Scherer	Tim Scherer has only been Director of Advising for a bit over 6 months, but already his work has led to a foundational change in our advising structure and culture at UAF. Result: Tim's work, probably more than any other at UAF, will lead to significant improvements in our institutional retention rates.
	Academic Advising Center	Carrie Browne	We recently hired a number of Enrollment Coaches to better support students throughout the pre-advising process between Admissions and Advising. Result: New students will be better supported with this new process.
	Geophysical Institute	Kaz Storm	Kaz works hard to make sure our 9-person team can function efficiently. Result: Improvement in employee effort (increased efficiency).
	DMVS	Susan Toscano	Susan's work at streamlining the Veteran's Administration (VA) dual certification process for military-related financial benefits and entitlements has saved this department the need for building an additional personnel requirement. Result: Susan's efficiency, systems, and approach to her duties has saved this department the need to hire an additional School Certifying Official--a cost savings measure amounting to roughly $60k annually!
	Geophysical Institute	Kalee Meurlott	This employee engages UAF grad students in outreach to K-12 learners throughout ��ҹ̽��. Result: Local K-12 students find UAF approachable and think of college as a logical next step in their education journey.
	Geophysical Institute	Grace Moore-Aanderson	This half-time employee is able to match production output to the level of full-time staff and take on some additional tasks. Result: This employee's work has resulted in science education resources that are ��ҹ̽��-based and feature the research of UAF scientists..
	Geophysical Institute	Mariah McNamara	Regardless of what the task, this employee puts her heart and soul into the work. Result: The reputation of the university is improved as a result of this person's positivity and her good behavior.
	Geophysical Institute	Doreen Hayward	This employee has worked to co-create (with ��ҹ̽�� Native communities) high school science curricula for a grant-funded program. Result: Potential revenues earned as ��ҹ̽�� high school students increase academic success and look towards UAF as the next stop on their education-to-career pathway.
	Geophysical Institute	Lori Schoening	This employee has made the effort to document the co-production process and product features of our grant-funded science educational products. Result: Employee efforts are streamlined and organized; resources are improved by establishing a quality and branding standard that is consistently high.
	UAF Graduate School	Mandi Goddard	Mandi has been instrumental in making improvements to graduate form processing and in creating the systems to share graduate student data with academic departments so they can better track and support their students. Result: Mandi's efforts will increase data transparency for graduate students, faculty, staff and UAF leadership.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Management	Joshua Hovis	Since taking on the Directorship of the Center for Student Engagement last summer, Josh Hovis has transformed the culture of student engagement. Result: Improving CSE leads directly to improved retention.
	Office of the Bursar	Megan Colley	Megan has made significant contributions to the automated refund process, playing a crucial role in several key areas. Result: Thanks to her efforts, the time it takes to process refunds each semester has been greatly minimized.
	College of Liberal Arts	Sarah Manriquez	In the past year, the CLA Public Information Office (Kathryn Reichert and Sarah Manriquez) has revolutionized outreach, donor engagement, and visibility for UAF's College of Liberal Arts. Result: The PIO-Team's work has resulted in a dramatic expansion of CLA's public reach, record-breaking event attendance, and stronger ties with donors, community partners, and media outlets.
	Rasmuson Library	Virginia Miner	In her role as Lead Circulation Supervisor at the Rasmuson Library, Ginny has implemented systems to streamline scheduling, communication, and oversight of student employees. Result: As a result of Ginny's iinnovation, student employees are better supported and more effectively managed, leading to fewer scheduling mishaps and a more consistent level of service throughout the week.
	CBSM	James Wolverton	We recognize Mr. James Wolverton for his exceptional efforts in managing the administrative operations of the College of Business and Security Management. Jim plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of the college, consistently handling a wide range of administrative responsibilities with professionalism and precision. Of particular note are his efforts in supporting the college's contract requirements tied to enrollment growth. His thorough understanding of complex administrative processes, combined with his ability to manage deadlines and coordinate across departments, has been instrumental in helping CBSM meet critical benchmarks and achieve strategic enrollment goals. Result: James has been instrumental in the surge in student enrollment growth that CBSM has experienced over the last year.
	CLA	Gwendolyn Retterer	Gwen Retterer consistently exemplifies exceptional dedication to her department, student success, and departmental excellence. Result: Gwen Retterer consistently demonstrates exceptional initiative and dedication beyond her standard responsibilities.
	International Arctic Research Center	Cierra Childs	Dedicated and gives 200% commitment to providing fiscal management support for the Executive Officer, PI's, and business team. Result: Developing strong business processes for fiscal grant management, assisting with Fund 1 support, and building streamlined measures, which results in better management of grant funds.
	CLA	Atsuko Watanabe	Atsuko Watanabe exemplifies exceptional dedication and reliability, consistently going above and beyond her standard duties. Result: Atsuko's contributions have led to more efficient administrative workflows and improved data management, resulting in time savings, more informed decision making and enhanced support for faculty and students.
	CLA	Laura Schneider	Laura Schneider has exemplified exceptional dedication by providing seamless administrative support across six departments for CLA since 2008. Result: Laura's contributions have led to streamlined processes, improved interdepartmental communication, and a more cohesive academic environment, embodying the values of Empower ��ҹ̽��.
	CLA	Diana Berry	Diana Berry has consistently demonstrated exceptional flexibility and initiative, effectively supporting multiple departments as a float administrative assistant. Result: Diana's efforts have ensured continuity of operations, minimized disruptions, and fostered a collaborative work environment, aligning with the principles of Empower ��ҹ̽��.
	CLA	Abigail Druckenmiller	Abby Druckenmiller has shown exceptional commitment and initiative in her role, significantly enhancing the administrative functions of the Art department. Result: Abby's contributions have led to increased efficiency, better resource management, and a more supportive environment for faculty and students, reflecting the values of Empower ��ҹ̽��.
	CLA	Laura Foor	Since joining UAF/CLA this year, Laura Foor has demonstrated remarkable initiative in mastering her new role as administrative assistant to multiple CLA departments. Result: Laura's contributions have streamlined departmental processes, improved communication, and strengthened the overall effectiveness of her departments, embodying the values of Empower ��ҹ̽��.
	CLA	Virginia Valentine	Since joining the Department of Theatre & Film in 2023, By Valentine has demonstrated exceptional initiative and dedication in her role as Department Administrative Assistant. Result: By's contributions have improved communication within the department, and fostered a supportive environment for faculty, students, and staff.
	CLA	Jamie Haman	Jamie Haman, who joined UAF/CLA in AY24-25, has quickly adapted to her administrative role, exhibiting exceptional initiative and dedication. Result: Jamie's proactive contributions have led to increased efficiency, better resource management, and enhanced support within her department, aligning with the principles of Empower ��ҹ̽��.
	CBSM	Angel Buchanan	We would like to recognize Ms. Angel Buchanan for her outstanding contributions as the Graduate Programs Coordinator for the College of Business and Security Management. Angel has demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in managing two of the largest graduate degree programs at UAF, ensuring a high level of support and guidance for both students and faculty. Her ability to navigate complex program requirements, provide timely communication, and maintain a student-centered approach has been key to the continued success and growth of our graduate programs. Result: Increase in efficiency in recruiting for the new INDS PhD student cohort.
	CBSM	Francine Davis	We would like to recognize Ms. Francine Davis for her outstanding work as the Budget Officer for the College of Business and Security Management. Through her consistent dedication and attention to detail, Francine has played a critical role in maintaining the college's long-term financial stability. Her expertise in budget forecasting, strategic planning, and fiscal oversight ensures that resources are effectively allocated to support the college's mission and priorities. Francine's proactive approach and commitment to accuracy have allowed CBSM to navigate financial challenges while continuing to grow and innovate. Result: Long-term financial stability under challenging budgetary constraints.
	CFOS	Brian Crandall	Brian's innovative and student-centered approach to advising and recruitment directly supports UAF's mission by increasing student engagement, expanding access, and promoting a sense of belonging. Result: Brian's innovative recruitment efforts have already significantly increased enrollment, leading to higher tuition revenues for the university (this past fall, new CFOS student enrollment increased 76%-ESR 9/9/24).
	Geophysical Institute	Kelly Eagan	Kelly is the primary lead for UAF's participation in the American Geophysical Union (AGU) annual meeting, a gathering that brings 25,000+ attendees from across the country. Result: UAF's participation would not happen without Kelly's organization and leadership.
	Geophysical Institute	Kelly Taylor	This person makes the wheels turn in their department. Result: Everyone wins when this person is involved.
	Geophysical Institute	Molly Putman	This employee produces high-quality graphics and publications that put a public face on UAF. Result: This person's work affects the public's impression of the university in a positive way and could lead to increased enrollment (revenue).
	Geophysical Institute	Bryan Whitten	Only one year his position, this person has invested his time and energy into learning about UAF and helping to tell UAF's science research stories. Result: Policy and decision makers (and the public) see the value of the university through products that represent UAF positively and make clear its value to ��ҹ̽�� and the Nation.
	Geophysical Institute	Katie Bendall	This employee is a dependable, hard working person who thrives when challenged and does not allow obstacles limit her performance. Result: Faculty and administrative staff are supported in fulfilling the Broader Impact requirements of their grants and communicating UAF science to the nation.
	Geophysical Institute	Rod Boyce	Rod invests himself in the task of learning about UAF and telling science research stories in a way that engages the general public. Result: In a time of change and uncertain federal funding, Rod helps us inform policy and decision-makers (and the public) to see the value of the university through products that represent UAF positively and make clear its value to ��ҹ̽�� and the Nation.
	Geophysical Institute	Ned Rozell	For more than 30 years Ned Rozell has written about complex science issues in a way that makes them understandable and interesting to a wide audience, drawing ��ҹ̽��ns in and advocating for the university in compelling, concrete and significant ways that bring positive attention to the university and its value to our state. Since 1994 Ned Rozell has authored the weekly ��ҹ̽�� Science Forum column as an employee of the University of ��ҹ̽�� Fairbanks Geophysical Institute. Result: Through his artful narratives, Ned makes science important to everyone.
	UAF College of Liberal Arts Dean's Office	Kathryn Reichert	I've taken proactive steps to build lasting connections between students and the College of Liberal Arts, focusing on increasing student recognition and fostering a stronger sense of belonging within the college community. Result: These initiatives have significantly strengthened the sense of community and pride within CLA, directly supporting both student retention and recruitment.
	GI Business Office	Katherine Herkstroeter	The GI Business Office team has consistently demonstrated innovation beyond their standard responsibilities by streamlining key purchasing and workflow processes, resulting in greater efficiency and improved customer service. Result: Their contributions have had a meaningful and measurable impact across departments.
	GI Business Office	Danielle Innes	The GI Business Office team has consistently demonstrated innovation beyond their standard responsibilities by streamlining key purchasing and workflow processes, resulting in greater efficiency and improved customer service. Result: Their contributions have had a meaningful and measurable impact across departments.
	GI Business Office	Rita Murphy	The GI Business Office team has consistently demonstrated innovation beyond their standard responsibilities by streamlining key purchasing and workflow processes, resulting in greater efficiency and improved customer service. Result: Their contributions have had a meaningful and measurable impact across departments.
	GI Business Office	Cheryl Petersen	The GI Business Office team has consistently demonstrated innovation beyond their standard responsibilities by streamlining key purchasing and workflow processes, resulting in greater efficiency and improved customer service. Result: Their contributions have had a meaningful and measurable impact across departments.
	GI Business Office	Cletta Schaeffer	The GI Business Office team has consistently demonstrated innovation beyond their standard responsibilities by streamlining key purchasing and workflow processes, resulting in greater efficiency and improved customer service. Result: Their contributions have had a meaningful and measurable impact across departments.
	GI Business Office	Loreta Thomas	The GI Business Office team has consistently demonstrated innovation beyond their standard responsibilities by streamlining key purchasing and workflow processes, resulting in greater efficiency and improved customer service. Result: Their contributions have had a meaningful and measurable impact across departments.
	GI Business Office	Brittany Rivas	The GI Business Office team has consistently demonstrated innovation beyond their standard responsibilities by streamlining key purchasing and workflow processes, resulting in greater efficiency and improved customer service. Result: Their contributions have had a meaningful and measurable impact across departments.
	Content Creation Program	Asia Fee	By hosting a free virtual panel, we successfully reached rural communities through accessible opportunities. Result: A very successful panel and prospective partnerships with speakers, free virtual event for all (in attendance - UAF members, ��ҹ̽�� community, National peoples of interest), achievements of grants goals and utilization of grant funds, provided industry insight from travel training opportunities.
	Geophysical Institute	Rebecca Lindsey	Becky has been leading the GI's PR department since August 2022, and during that time she has demonstrated her ability to bring together diverse groups of people, serve as a voice for change in the department, and engaged and motivate her staff to promote and share the stories of research across UAF and the state. Result: Becky's work has put the work of UAF research into the forefront and helped created an easier way for the general public to understand the importance of research on the general public's everyday lives.
	Geophysical Institute	Breana Simants	Bree continually demonstrates initiative and forward-thinking by creating new processes that enhance operational efficiency and support the university's mission. Result: Her work consistently goes well beyond her regular duties, and the systems she puts in place have a lasting impact on both staff support and overall efficiency.
	Geophysical Institute	Donna Evans	Donna has demonstrated excellent leadership in difficult times. Result: Reduced costs in our Business Office, overall reduced costs due to reevaluation of spending and cost cutting efficiencies put into place through automation, improved employee morale and longevity of staff in department due to her leadership.
	Geophysical Institute	Tracy Durnan	Tracy's work at the operations manager as been vastly impactful to the safety of the GI's machine shop. Result: Through Tracy's leadership in renovating the work culture in the GI's machine shop, she has tackled creating a new way of working, improved efficiencies, meet the need to create a safe and effective working environment, and created cost savings through improvement of work and billing processes.
	Geophysical Institute	Tobey-Jean Priest	Tobey-Jean has exceeded the role of her position by growing and developing a highly effective team in the Office of Proposal Development. Result: Increased revenues due to an increase in proposal submissions, an increase in quality due to excellent training programs, and reduction of overtime hours by staff due to better management of time and increased staffing.
	Facilities Services	Harmonie Peters	Harmonie always gives more than 100% effort. Result: Harmonie's efforts have enabled the university to delay recruitments for vacant positions (saving labor budget), and her efficient methods get more work done in less time.
	Facilities Services	Mija McGuire	Mija always gives more than 100% effort. Result: Mija's efforts have enabled the university to delay recruitments for vacant positions (saving labor budget), and her efficient methods get more work done in less time.
	Facilities Services	Karrah Hearns	Karrah always gives more than 100% effort. Result: Karrah's efficient methods get more work done in less time.
	Facilities Services	Courtney Vermilyea	Courtney always gives more than 100% effort. Result: Courtney's efforts have enabled the university to delay recruitments for vacant positions (saving labor budget while she performs the work of more than one full-time position), and her extraordinarily efficient methods get more work done in less time.
	Geophysical Institute	Sara Wilbur	So far in FY25 alone, Geophysical Institute (GI) communications coordinator Sara Wilbur has led 60 events, facilitating the connection of at least 2,981 attendees with world-class GI research. Result: Sara's work leading GI events provides significant logistical support to GI researchers and partners, where her institutional knowledge means she plans events efficiently and reduces administrative workload for researchers.
	Facilities Services	Jamie Meyer	Jamie always gives more than 100% effort. Result: Jamie's efforts have enabled the university to delay recruitments for vacant positions (saving labor budget), and her efficient methods get more work done in less time.
	Facilities Services	Michael Young	Michael always gives more than 100% effort. Result: Michael's efficient methods get more work done in less time.
	Facilities Services	Macie Schoemaker	Macie always gives more than 100% effort. Result: Macie's efficient methods get more work done in less time.
	Facilities Services	Avie Bruce	Avie always gives more than 100% effort. Result: As more responsibility and effort has been assigned to Avie, she has gracefully absorbed it and has made dramatic improvements in the operations throughout her department.
	Environmental Health, Safety & Risk Management	Robert Forcier	Robert Forcier, a self-described "tank guy" and "heavy equipment operator"consistently goes beyond his assigned duties to improve how work gets done. Result: Bob's proactive mindset has led to streamlined workflows and more efficient use of labor and equipment.
	Environmental Health, Safety & Risk Management	Peter Reynoldson	Pete Reynoldson stands out for his ability to not only identify problems, but to implement real, actionable solutions. Result: In his role with EHSRM, Pete brings a rare ability to identify operational inefficiencies and resolve them before they escalate.
	Facilities Services	Cameron Wohlford	Cam leads with clarity and a deep commitment to quality outcomes in UAF's capital project delivery. Result: Cam's leadership has resulted in on-time progress for major campus projects despite funding constraints and staffing pressures.
	Facilities Services	Karen Mallette	Karen has led critical process improvements in inventory tracking and billing within Facilities Services. Result: Thanks to Karen's efforts, billing accuracy has improved and fewer corrections are needed.
	Facilities Services	Nathan Platt	Nathan has made meaningful improvements to UAF's preventive maintenance (PM) program. Result: Nathan's efforts have directly improved equipment reliability, reduced the frequency of reactive maintenance, and allowed better planning of resources and staffing.
	Athletics	Graham Sachtleben	Graham' exceptional service to the athletics department and university has increased productivity, business operations, innovative ideas, and cost savings through his initiatives. Result: He has improved business operations through our deposit process, through his work across campus and our ticketing director.
	Signers' Business Office	Kathy Bennett	Kathy's leadership over the last couple years has been exceptional. Result: Kathy's leadership has been invaluable as we have taken on more responsibilities while balancing staff transition and budget obligations.
	D6HR	Bailey Olalde	Bailey created a Google form for our office that is free for supervisors to fill out when hiring an undergrad or a temp. Result: This has saved us a lot of time by not going back and forth via email if the supervisor does not answer something correctly.
	Signers' Business Office	Kathrin Connally	Kathrin consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication, reliability, and a strong commitment to excellence in everything she does. Result: Kathrin has significantly improved overall team efficiency through her exceptional initiative and attention to detail.
	CLA	Disomary Cardentey	We have the pleasure of working with Diosmary 'Dee' Cardentey, and would like to nominate her to receive the highest award within the Empower ��ҹ̽�� Incentive Program. Result: Perfectly supported team.
	Signers' Business Office	Kelsea Boswell	Kelsea took on procurement responsibilities for CFOS and quickly became a reliable, go-to resource. Result: By taking on procurement for CFOS, Kelsea brought greater consistency and compliance to the purchasing process.
	GI	Lukas Blom	Mr. Blom leads the operations for our geophysical station maintenance. Result: This work is key to fulfilling key deliverables to the Department of Defense.
	Student Affairs and Enrollment Mgmt	Mark Oldmixon	Mark has consistently put students first, going above and beyond to enhance the student experience through recreation and outdoor programming. This year, Mark successfully expanded student activity options by negotiating discounted ski passes at two local ski resorts, creating more accessible opportunities for winter recreation. Result: Collectively, these initiatives have become powerful tools in the university's recruitment and retention efforts.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Hallie Nelson	Hallie developed processes for the programs she support that help streamline and create efficiencies. Result: Hallie put a lot of effort into developing these processes.
	Geophysical Institute	Katherine Best	Katie implemented and organized GI's Small Business Subcontract Reporting platform, which has saved our unit many hours of extracting information across all GI Departments. Result: The impact of not reporting Small Business Subcontracting accurately could be very costly.
	GI HR	Clover Erickson	Since joining the team, Clover has hit the ground running, quickly picking up processes with impressive ease and consistently delivering high-quality work. Result: Clover has quickly become an invaluable team member, picking up processes rapidly and working with exceptional efficiency.
	GI HR	Hannah Bell	Hannah has truly stepped into a Recruitment leadership role, going above and beyond to help support and mentor her peers in the recruitment space. Result: Her ability to efficiently recruit top talent has reduced time-to-hire, allowing new faculty, postdocs, and staff to begin contributing to the GI's mission more quickly.
	Geophysical Institute	Anna Brumbelow	Anna earned her CRA in December of 2024. Result: Having highly qualified and trained employees such as Anna result in cost savings to our unit and UAF.
	GI HR	Ariel Traxler	Ariel has seamlessly stepped into both the Assistant Manager and Supervisor roles with confidence, dedication, and a clear drive to excel. Result: Her hands-on leadership and one on one training has minimized the need for rework, optimized use of resources, and supported faster resolution of daily challenges especially when it comes aiding our graduate students as she trains me to take over our personnel role.
	Geophysical Institute	Lillian Anderson-Misel	Lillian consistently shows up as a compassionate, reliable, and empowering leader. Result: Through her consistent support and mentorship, Lillian has helped foster a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
	Geophysical Institute	Lisa Piechocki	Lisa has exceeded her job requirements by her expertise, strategic thinking and deep understanding of her position. Result: Faster business processing, strategic planning for future needs of department, and improved customer service for our unit.
	Geophysical Institute	Crystal Ruerup	Crystal has demonstrated excellent leadership in her work with visas for the Geophysical Institute. Result: She is impactful in her work with other UAF employees, is improving the internal process for visa document collection and overall is making a distinct impact on our department which is above and beyond her position.
	Geophysical Institute	Nathan Graham	Since Nathan Graham has taken over management of the Advanced Instrumentation Laboratory, the lab has flourished beyond what the steering committee expected. Result: I expect Nate Graham's exceptional leadership of the AIL will poise UAF to be a major player in the economic geology and critical minerals landscape in the coming years.
	Wilson ��ҹ̽�� Technical Center/GI	Kyle Ketchell	Kyle serves as the Network Security IT Admin for the Wilson ��ҹ̽�� Technical Center (WATC). Result: WARP will make WATC's operations significantly more effiecient.
	ASF	Jeff Welk	While working with NASA on a major security project at the ASF Ground Station, Jeff developed a unique method by which legacy software could run in a secure multi-user manner that allowed for all of NASAs new security requirements to be met without negatively affecting the system functionality. Result: Significantly lowered the chances of missing PACE satellite passes which would cost UAF lost revenue.
	Geophysical Institute	Jessica Larsen	Jessica goes above and beyond in her role as associate director of the GI. Result: fixing fractured relationships, improved revenues from GI's Advanced Instrumentation Lab, stronger relationships between the GI and colleges for student success.
	Geophysical Institute	Liam Forbes	Liam has demonstrated excellent leadership as the manager of RCS. Result: Improved research computing ability, strategic future planning to grow compute capabilities, excellent outreach and knowledge collaborations across campus.
	Geophysical Institute	Jessica Matthews	Jessica Matthews has demonstrated going above and beyond in her position. Result: Increase in land ownership by UAF, improved community relations with Copper Valley and UAF, reduced costs and increased revenues from work accomplished at HAARP, and increased collaboration and externally financed work at the facility.
	Facilities Services	Travis Malzahn	Travis is on the Preventative Maintenance team at UAF Facilities Services. Result: As a direct result of Travis' efforts, the preventative maintenance program at the new Power Plant will be vastly improved, resulting in vast cost savings over time.
	Facilities Services	Vanessa Hasting	A little over a year ago, Vanessa implemented a new custodial services tracking program on the UAF campus, using Airtable, that vastly improved communications between UAF and the custodial contractor, ABM. Result: Overall, Vanessa has improved custodial service on campus through better communication with ABM supervisors and cleaners.
	Geophysical Institute	Lynda McGilvary	Under Lynda's leadership, she was instrumental in the growth and development of the GI's public relations group. Result: Increased employee effort, improved resources, and a broad scale of impact for communicating the research of UAF.
	Center for Innovation, Commercialization, and Entrepreneurship	Ashley Guernsey	Ashley is an employee that you can always count on and definitely exceeds expectations every single day! Ashley supports faculty, staff, and students alike and is willing to work with them to answer their needs. Result: Ashley has developed effective standard procedures that has increased the team efficiency and of our partners.
	Office of Finance & Accounting	Rachel Jeppsen	Rachel redesigned the representational allowance process and created a NextGen form that covers all categories of Representational Allowance. Result: This form Form has greatly reduced clutter and redundancy with rep allowances; the NextGen system allows OFA to communicate with submitters directly via returning while requesting clarification or additional backup/information.
	GINA	Carl Dierking	��ҹ̽��'s next-generation scientific workforce will come from those educated within the University of ��ҹ̽�� system. Result: Mentoring undergraduate students is not part of Carl's job description.
	GINA	Owen Larson	Owen has demonstrated exemplary effort in developing a new web app for the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, pushing himself to learn new technologies to meet project demands. Result: I hope this award will show Owen that we value his initiative in enhancing UAF's research capabilities as America's Arctic University and that we want him to retain him as a UAF employee.
	Office of the Registrar	Andrea Miller	Andrea has demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative through her work on multiple high-impact projects. Result: As a result of Andrea's efforts, program and course curriculum is more accurate and accessible, improving the experience for both students and staff.
	Office of the Registrar	Sandy Ocampos	Sandy has consistently gone above and beyond in providing exceptional student service, particularly in supporting graduation and retention efforts. Result: As a result of Sandy's efforts, students are better prepared for graduation, experience fewer delays, and often leave the University with a positive, lasting impression of their final interactions.
	Office of the Registrar	Sarah Barber	Over the past 18 months, Sarah has taken the lead on several complex projects that have greatly enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of systems used across the University. Result: As a result of these efforts, the University has saved hundreds of staff hours across multiple departments and reduced the risk of data discrepancies.
	UAF GI HR	Hannah Bell	Hannah has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to improving operational efficiency well beyond the expectations of her role. Result: Hannah has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to improving operational efficiency well beyond the expectations of her role.
	Shipping and Receiving	Grady Baumfalk	Safety conscious and helpful to all personnel who come into the receiving department. Result: Works efficiently to keep costs down. Has helped improve the receiving process.
	Shipping and Receiving	Alex Beer	Very Forthcoming about giving aid where needed. Result: Has helped streamline the operational process.
	Shipping and Receiving	Connor O'Bryan	Task-oriented, very forthright. Result: Efficient, prompt, and easy to get along with.
	Office of the Registrar	Stephanie Strandberg	Stephanie plays a key role in improving the student experience through her work on critical technology upgrades that support student success. Result: This was the third major upgrade to the student information system in six years – an impressive reflection of Stephanie's ongoing commitment to improving systems that matter.
	��ҹ̽�� INBRE	Sarah Garcia	In February 2025, ��ҹ̽�� INBRE hosted the Western Region IDeA Conference in Anchorage, ��ҹ̽��. Result: The effort to host this conference in additional to the daily work responsibilities was significant and completed by the strong collaborative approach.
	IAB	Julie Alston	Julie consistently demonstrates a collaborative and team-oriented mindset, always stepping up to support colleagues when needed. Result: Outcome: A well-trained team equipped with accurate knowledge leads to greater efficiency, consistency, and confidence when performing duties.
	IAB	Yisleine Maldonado Guzman	Demonstrates a strong attitude and consistently puts in the effort to ensure tasks are completed accurately and on time. Result: Outcome: Achieved increased efficiency in HR administrative tasks, ensuring employees were set up promptly and clients received timely assistance.
	��ҹ̽�� INBRE	Jynene Black	In February 2025, ��ҹ̽�� INBRE hosted the Western Region IDeA Conference in Anchorage, ��ҹ̽��. Result: The effort to host this conference in additional to the daily work responsibilities was significant and completed by the strong collaborative approach.
	��ҹ̽�� INBRE	Anita Goetz	In February 2025, ��ҹ̽�� INBRE hosted the Western Region IDeA Conference in Anchorage, ��ҹ̽��. Result: The effort to host this conference in additional to the daily work responsibilities was significant and completed by the strong collaborative approach.
	Office of the Registrar	Logan Hertzler	Logan has consistently gone above and beyond his responsibilities to improve the student experience. Result: As a direct result of Logan's efforts, students were more prepared for registration, leading to a decrease in confusion and questions.
	IAB	Maria Stejskal	Maria serves as the glue of our team, consistently demonstrating strong leadership through her prompt actions and timely responsiveness. Result: Maria's contributions have resulted in reduced processing delays, improved employee experience, and decreased HR follow-up workload.
	Signers Business Office	Ashley Lindsoe	I'd like to recommend Ashley in recognition of her outstanding leadership and steady presence. Result: HR team more streamlined and effective and taking on more work with Ashley's effective management.
	��ҹ̽�� INBRE	Katie Powell	In February 2025, ��ҹ̽�� INBRE hosted the Western Region IDeA Conference in Anchorage, ��ҹ̽��. Result: The effort to host this conference in additional to the daily work responsibilities was significant and completed by the strong collaborative approach.
	ACUASI	John Ancheta	JR demonstrated outstanding performance in developing budget management tools that fundamentally changed major portions of our project management process. Result: Better 0 dollar spending plans enacted continuously in the grant process.
	ACUASI	Jackie Gengler	Jackie developed tools, policy and procedures across our department that greatly increase our ability to perform purchasing, leases and overall speed improvements on all aspects of our incoming and closing contracts. Result: Massive cost savings, better money management and a gained critical insight into the health and management of our department as a whole.
	UAF Chancellors Office	Bradley Lobland	Through a visionary approach and hands-on leadership style, Brad has created a shared services model that not only supports day-to-day operations but also strengthens the overall resilience and agility of the university. Result: As an exceptional shared service unit leader, Brad Lobland exemplifies operational excellence, strategic foresight, and collaborative leadership.
	GI/ASF	Michelle Harbin	ASF will be archiving all data from the upcoming NISAR mission, which will generate unprecedented volumes of data - over 50 PB per year - more than all NASA missions combined to this point. Result: The NISAR mission is NASA's flagship SAR mission, and ASF, and UAF, will be the face of it to the user community.
	Office of the Bursar	Robin Gilbert	Robin recently set up the event planner in Transact (our campus carding software) and demo'd the functionality to the Athletics department. Result: We forecast this improvement to bring over $1,000 worth of revenue to the Athletics department.
	Geophysical Institute	Brittany Smart	The ��ҹ̽�� Defense Forum has grown into an annual event bringing together military personnel, university researchers, and the Fairbanks community. Result: ��ҹ̽�� is home to several key military installations that play a critical role in our nation's national defense.
	Financial Aid Office	Martika Hubbard	The FAFSA Simplification process over the last year required weekly and sometimes daily rework. Result: Martika Hubbard has demonstrated exceptional leadership, resilience, and dedication in navigating one of the most challenging years for financial aid in recent history.
	ACEP	Patty Eagan	Patty has streamlined complex logistics, procurement, and onboarding systems for ACEP's cohort programs including the Undergraduate Summer Internship Program, Energy Leadership Accelerator, and Arctic Remote Energy Networks Academy. Result: Patty's eagerness to learn, innovate, and document processes has grown ACEP's ability to envision and execute more ambitious cohort programming including place-based short courses, conferences, and networking trips.
	Department of Residence Life	Lori Havard	Lori has been the Resident Director for the Employee Family Housing area on the University of ��ҹ̽�� Fairbanks campus for the past three years. Result: Reduced administrative needs on many parts of the university, Reduced damage to units, improved resident satisfaction, reduced vacancy times for units.
	Institute of Arctic Biology (IAB)	Ruth Dinardi Rosado	The IAB HR department was in disarray before Ruth became our IAB HR Manager. Result: Ruth has expended an immense amount of effort to reduce administrative burden for IAB students, faculty, and staff.
	Institute of Arctic Biology (IAB)	Dawniel Dupee	Dawniel has spent countless hours keeping the IAB Administrative Office organized and on schedule for deadlines. Result: Dawniel's efforts have increased employee effort and reduced the workload for her coworkers.
	OIT Platforms, Applications, & Web Services	Doug Knight	Doug exemplifies what it means to rise to the occasion in times of urgency and challenge. Result: Doug's rapid and consistent response to IT emergencies has minimized system downtime, avoided potential disruptions to student services, and prevented extended outages that could have cost the university significant operational and reputational harm.
	Office of the Registrar	Janeen Culbertson	Over the past two years, Janeen has led innovative improvements to the curriculum process in CourseLeaf, making it significantly more transparent, accessible, and efficient. Result: Janeen's process improvements in CourseLeaf and DegreeWorks have significantly reduced manual entry and approval bottlenecks, saving countless staff hours each semester.
	Office of the Registrar	Charles Christ	Charles has played a pivotal role in UAF's Office of the Registrar process improvement to automate the graduation application through BSS9; additionally he has been leading automation efforts that have streamlined multiple systems and processes. Result: Charles's automation initiatives have reduced manual processing time and improved accuracy, significantly decreasing staff workload and turnaround times.
	OIT Platforms, Applications, & Web Services	Cara Brunk	Cara's exceptional project management and interpersonal skills have made her a cornerstone of collaboration and progress within the University. Result: Cara's leadership has directly contributed to improved coordination, reduced delays, and streamlined communication across critical OIT initiatives.
	Office of the Registrar	Jessica Skipper	Jessica has transformed the administration of the EAB Nanook Navigator platform, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure it functions effectively for students, advisors, and student services staff. Result: Jessica's onboarding of additional care units and development of a leadership structure has improved coordination across departments.
	Office of the Registrar	Kim McFadden	Kim identified a recurring issue with affiliate identity requests which sparked the formation of a cross-functional process improvement team to address not only the initial problem but broader systemic inefficiencies. Result: Kim's initiative addressing identity requests will reduce processing delays and spurred the creation of long-term improvements in system coordination and accountability.
	Rasmuson Library	Jessalyn Ginnaty	Jessalyn has been exemplary in her efforts to increase efficiency at the Library by redesigning the layout of the Circulation workroom. Result: Streamlined workflow, improved oversight, and cost savings for supplies.
	Geophysical Institute - HAARP	Tracy Coon	Tracy's contributions to the UAF mission are exceptional. Result: Tracy's actions as the Site Manager directly resulted in a $9.3M/5-year award from the National Science Foundation to establish a new research observatory dedicated to exploring Earth's upper atmosphere and geospace environment.
	Geophysical Institute	Jeffrey Rothman	Jeff creates very sensitive sensors that are in high demand, not only amongst GI's researcher community but also to the US government. Result: Jeff is a valuable resource to UASF and the GI.
	Geophysical Institute	Tracy Piechocki	Tracy has worked to clean up our shipping/receiving dock since his hire and has turned a previously dangerous work environment with a disconnected team into a safe work environment with a very strong, happy, high-performing team. Result: Tracy will continue to grow the careers of his high-performing team and continue to find ways to decrease costs while increasing customer service.
	Department of Geosciences and Department of Atmospheric Sciences	Lynnette Dunn	Lynn's work performance and support of faculty, staff, and students is exemplary. Result: Lynn's dedication to her position results in efficient operation of the offices for Geosciences and Atmospheric Sciences, but perhaps one of her most important contributions is her support for students, providing consistent and helpful guidance as they navigate their degree programs.
	Geophysical Institute - HAARP	Tyler Begley	Tyler's contributions to the UAF mission are exceptional. Result: Tyler's actions as the HAARP Maintenance Supervisor directly resulted in a $9.3M/5-year award from the National Science Foundation to establish a new research observatory dedicated to exploring Earth's upper atmosphere and geospace environment.
	CIS	Amanda Knight	CIS spends $4 million annually on contractual services, commodities, and equipment funded by over 80 different sources. Result: Due to Amanda's work, CIS has been able to assist another college with purchasing, reconciliation, or JVs and due to department restructures, this cooperation will continue to grow (cost avoidance on behalf of the other college).
	INE	Paula Kennedy	Paula has stepped up her role as post award grant manager to include pre award and proposals while UAF is under a hiring freeze for recruitment and replacement of the INE proposal manager. Result: If Paula had not offered to assist in proposals, there would be a good chance these revenue's would not have been received and some faculty would not be funded.
	Geophysical Institute - HAARP	Evans Callis	Evans' contributions to the UAF mission are exceptional. Result: Evans' actions as the HAARP Lead for Research Support Services directly resulted in a $9.3M/5-year award from the National Science Foundation to establish a new research observatory dedicated to exploring Earth's upper atmosphere and geospace environment.
	CIS Business Office	Marchelle Somaduroff	I would like to recognize Marchelle Somaduroff for stepping in to fill all the gaps on the CIS Fiscal & Grants team! More specifically, Marchelle designed CIS's first Business Office resource site that allows faculty and staff to be self-service to things like Purchase Requests, the Proposal Process steps and where to begin, information on CIS' budget process & ideas for obtaining supplemental funding, etc. Result: CIS employee resource access has been greatly improved, allowing key stakeholders more efficiency in all sorts of business office related procedures.
	CIS Business Office	Carissa Hauck	Carissa Hauck is the CIS and CTC Proposal Development Officer. Result: CIS (ignoring current federal funding issues) has started realizing the financial impacts of additional funding being brought to the college due to Carissa's work, and there are many proposals currently submitted that we are awaiting award decisions on.
	CIS Business Office	Lauren Jerew	Imagine you are a campus director with 24/7 access to view your campus budget that is automatically updated every two weeks when payroll posts and that receives manual updates each time a purchase request is completed, you have one on one meetings with a fiscal professional who turns your plans into financial projections and considers way to navigate specific circumstances, action steps are taken in a very timely manner, & neat notes are kept and provided in a summary email after each meeting. Result: Lauren's work to improve while simplifying the resources & tools for budget authorities across CIS is regularly praised internally.
	IAB	Jacy Pietsch	Jacy is known for going above and beyond. Result: In the short time that Jacy has joined IAB we have seen a clear shift, processes are smoother, response time have improved and staff who were previously overloaded have been able to refocus on their primary roles.
	GINA	Hannah Chapman-Dutton	With minimal experience in rural ��ҹ̽��, Hannah was integral to the successful meetings and workshops aimed at collecting information about wildfire hazards and risks in southwest ��ҹ̽��. Result: With Hannah's help, communities will have a tailored wildfire risk assessment product for their community plans, better preparing them for the future.
	Office of the Registrar	Jasmine Johnson-Kennedy	Jasmine demonstrates outstanding customer service skills and actively listens to understand complex student questions and concerns. Result: Jasmine's exceptional service helps students feel heard and supported, increasing the likelihood of staying enrolled which directly contributes to tuition revenue.
	Office of the Registrar - Degree Services	Larissa Chitty	Larissa demonstrates exceptional expertise in reviewing complex graduate degree audits with efficiency and precision. Result: By resolving Issues efficiently, she ensures degree audits are accurate and helps students graduate on time and student satisfaction.
	Office of the Registrar - Degree Services	Tamara Alexander	Tammy has played a critical role in building student degree plans for PhD and Master's students in DegreeWorks – a vital tool used by students, faculty, and staff to track academic progress and required graduation submissions. Result: By ensuring student plans and roadmaps are accurate and accessible, Tammy helps students stay on track to graduate.
	Geophysical Institute	Bailey Olalde	Bailey is very creative and likes to improve our current processes to streamline new, user-friendly approaches that enhances workflow efficiency, reduces delays, and improves communication. Result: Her contributions have led to improved operational efficiency, reduced confusion, and a more seamless experience for both students and staff.
	��ҹ̽�� Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration	John Robinson	John Robinson, the Deputy Director of the ��ҹ̽�� Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration (ACUASI), in his spare time and as part of his ACUASI public service role, has provided exceptional support to the local military bases and personnel. Result: John's efforts are resulting in increased funding for UAF.
	Poker Flat Research Range	Tony Tyree	Tony Tyree has been a part of PFRR since 2006 and has shown exceptional growth. Result: Tony needs to be recognized for being an intregal part of PFRR.
	Poker Flat Research Range	David Hill	David Hill has been with PFRR since 2018 and has played an intregal part of the Range's success. Result: Dave continues to improve systems and is vital to the success of the Range and the campaings that happen there.
	IANRE	Susie Wilkie	Susie has taken on the ��ҹ̽�� 4-H State System Manager positions. Result: By creating these spreadsheets it has relieved some work for the 4-H staff and faculty allowing us to be more efficient at our jobs.
	IANRE	Ronda Boswell	Ronda has been a committed UAF employee for 23 years with the Tanana District CES Office. Result: Getting this award would be a boost for her moral and make her feel valued after all the years of commitment.
	Rural ��ҹ̽�� Honors Institute	Bambi Nelson	Bambi has elevated the RAHI student experience through innovative and compassionate communication efforts that connect with students, their families, and alumni. Result: Bambi's work helped achieve full student retention, significantly improving program and student outcomes.
	Nanook Recreation	Frank Olive	Frank works hard each day to create a welcoming educational environment that encourages UAF students to explore the wilderness of ��ҹ̽��. Result: Frank puts in more effort than the average employee and has been doing so for many years, if not decades.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Chiawen "Karen" Yeh	Karen Yeh's outstanding support across multiple programs – Construction Management, Drafting Technology, and IT Specialist – directly contributes to student success and faculty efficiency. Result: Her proactive coordination streamlines administrative processes, resulting in reduced faculty workload hours and improved use of employee resources.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	David Glover	Since joining the CTC Allied Health programs in Fall 2024, David Glover has proven to be a dedicated, reliable, and highly efficient administrative assistant. Result: David has helped streamline daily operations, reduce faculty workload, and support accreditation efforts freeing up faculty to focus more on teaching and student support.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Benjamin Pratte	Ben Pratte is an invaluable part of the Culinary Arts and Hospitality program at the Community and Technical College, with a deep understanding of the program from his time as a student, program assistant, and adjunct instructor. Result: Ben's efforts provide students with practical experience, strengthen the program's connection to the local community, and enhance the program's visibility, potentially increasing enrollment and revenue.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Kim Duffield	Kim Duffield has quickly become an indispensable member of the Fire Science, Emergency Medical Services, and Law Enforcement programs since starting in Fall 2024. Result: Kim's contributions have had a direct impact on the success of these high-demand workforce development programs, ensuring smooth operations and helping faculty focus on their teaching and student mentorship.
	Geophysical Institute	Robyn Frick	Since starting here six months ago, Robyn has transformed the culture of our GI Operations team. Result: Robyn is an exceptional employee who takes on cost-saving initiatives that she can identify with.
	Geophysical Institute	Marc Cites	Marc was hired as an Assistant Manager for our machine shop with the intent of training under the current supervisor, who has been in place for over 20 years, but has been on his own since his first week. Result: Mark has gotten his staff the training they need to safely perform their jobs and turned the shop around from a money-draining shop to a money-making shop. Doing all of this without even having the official title of shop supervisor.
	Nanook Recreation	Christine McComb	Chris consistently goes above and beyond for her students and student employees. Result: Chris is a rock in our department and will jump up to help whenever there is a need.
	CLA	Tyler Kirk	In addition to serving as a faculty member and department Chair, Dr. Kirk takes on all grading of incompletes that have resulted from courses formerly taught by two colleagues who retired. He does this even though he is absolutely swamped with his tripartite position. Result: Dr. Kirk ensures that all students (even those who are not his students) are provided the care, service, and attention they deserve.
	Nanook Recreation	Dan Waldroup	Dan became the Ice Rink Manager and soon after moved the customer service desk to a new location. Result: We are seeing increased revenues from day users at the ice rink.
	Office of the Bursar	Michael McFetridge	Michael serves on numerous committees at both the campus and system levels, including the UAF Data Governance Committee, the UA Tuition Initiative, and the UAF Tuition Committee. Result: As part of this data-driven effort, the team analyzes tuition methodologies used by peer institutions and identified options that would simplify student billing and generate additional tuition revenue.
	IAB	Diane OBrien	Matt and Diane are the foundation of the IAB Business Center's success, consistently creating a harmonious, supportive, and employee-centered environment. Result: Increased employee satisfaction and retention, reduced workplace conflict, and enhanced productivity through a positive and stable work culture.
	GI	Eleanor Boyce	Ms. Boyce has advanced geophysical network monitoring for the ��ҹ̽�� Volcano Observatory (AVO). She has created efficient, effective methods to ensure critical volcano monitoring data are received in real-time. She has gone above standard job requirements and found innovate solutions to tracking and receiving our monitoring data. Result: UAF AVO's improved geophysical network monitoring has advanced our monitoring mission and has resulted in improved volcano monitoring and mitigation of nature hazards.
	GI	Scott Stihler	Mr. Stihler has demonstrated exceptional effort and performance over the past year. Mount Spurr, a hazardous volcano near Anchorage, has been experiencing volcanic unrest. Mr. Stihler is the main seismic analyst for the ��ҹ̽�� Volcano Observatory (AVO) and has done an exemplary job in detecting and location earthquakes from Mount Spurr and other volcanoes. Result: AVO has been able to adequately monitor Mount Spurr thanks to Mr. Stihler's efforts. The number of detected earthquakes and overall workload has been much higher than normal, and Mr. Stihler has completed these tasks well.
	GI	Kenneth Macpherson	Dr. Macpherson leads the Analysis Team at the GI's Wilson ��ҹ̽�� Technical Center (WATC). Recently he has led an initiation to improve our data quality monitoring by developing a new suite of tools for seismic and infrasound data. Result: The new data quality tools will provide a substantial improvement and cost savings for WATC. Further, WATC is exploring licensing the new tools for use by other entities.
	IAB	Adam Chisom	The Toolik team exemplifies what it means to be responsible, collaborative, friendly, and highly responsive. Result: Reduced processing delays, improved employee onboarding experiences, and stronger alignment between field and administrative operations resulting in smoother workflows and better service delivery.
	IAB	Faye Ethridge	The Toolik team exemplifies what it means to be responsible, collaborative, friendly, and highly responsive. Result: Reduced processing delays, improved employee onboarding experiences, and stronger alignment between field and administrative operations resulting in smoother workflows and better service delivery.
	IAB	Stephen Goetz	The Toolik team exemplifies what it means to be responsible, collaborative, friendly, and highly responsive. Result: Reduced processing delays, improved employee onboarding experiences, and stronger alignment between field and administrative operations resulting in smoother workflows and better service delivery.
	IAB	Marin Kuizenga	The Toolik team exemplifies what it means to be responsible, collaborative, friendly, and highly responsive. Result: Reduced processing delays, improved employee onboarding experiences, and stronger alignment between field and administrative operations resulting in smoother workflows and better service delivery.
	IAB	Michael Reynolds	The Toolik team exemplifies what it means to be responsible, collaborative, friendly, and highly responsive. Result: Reduced processing delays, improved employee onboarding experiences, and stronger alignment between field and administrative operations resulting in smoother workflows and better service delivery.
	IAB	Amanda Young	The Toolik team exemplifies what it means to be responsible, collaborative, friendly, and highly responsive. Result: Reduced processing delays, improved employee onboarding experiences, and stronger alignment between field and administrative operations resulting in smoother workflows and better service delivery.
	Facilities Services	James Mitchell	James Mitchell demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in responding to widespread roof leaks across campus during the spring thaw. Result: Thanks to James's efforts, damage to University facilities was minimized, essential operations continued with minimal disruption, and costly external repairs were largely avoided.
	Bristol Bay Campus	Aihs Palmer	Aihs has led Bristol Bay Campus in creating micro-credentials for the students in our region. Result: BBC is offering courses that are of high demand within our communities that fall into the micro-credential programs.
	College of Engineering and Mines	Rorik Peterson	Dr. Peterson intervened in a course being taught by a temporary instructor, provided intensive mentorship to the instructor, reviewed all course materials, attended the class, and calmed the anxiety of the students. This level of intervention far exceeds the normal level of mentorship expected of senior faculty. Result: The student experience was enhanced significantly following Dr. Peterson's intervention. Learning objectives were met, and there was a measurable drop in student complaints.
	Office of Proposal Development, GI	Jill King	Proposal coordinators at UAF's Office of Proposal Development have one of the most challenging jobs on campus. Result: The Geophysical Institute has become more successful thanks to Jill's dedication to preparing organized proposals for numerous federal agencies.
	College of Engineering and Mines	Wilhelm Muench	Mr. Muench intervened in a class being taught by a temporary instructor. The course was generating student complaints. Muench intervened by providing additional recitations for the course, test preparation, and mentorship of the instructor. This far exceeds the level of mentorship expected of our full time employees. Result: I have received letters of gratitude from students for our swift insertion of Mr. Muench into the course. His work helped to ensure that we met the learning objectives, while reducing the overall level of student anxiety.
	Institue of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Extension	Jenn Wagaman	Jenn has devised multiple new processes that streamlines communication between IANRE faculty and the communications office which improves operational efficiency for all involved while allowing our stakeholders across the state to find information about workshops, classes, programs and research easily and in a consistent manner. Result: Jenn's efforts have cut down on the amount of time the communication team spends tracking down information and increased the amount of information we can get to our stakeholders.
	College of Engineering and Mines	Derek Miller	As the Executive Officer of the college, Derek has striven to create a culture of accountability across CEM. Result: Derek pressed for CEM to develop a new strategic plan this past year, and led the followup efforts to measure and make progress on the plan's specific elements.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Amanda Lash	The travel office of UAF is the most functional department in which I have ever worked. Result: She is constantly working to update and upgrade the systems within which we work while keeping within the guidelines of the BOR.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Spencer Bedard	I would like to recognize travel coordinator Spencer Bedard for his exceptional assistance during my travels between federally funded conferences amidst dangerous weather. Result: Spencer's effort ensured I made it to my conferences on time and safely! Then he followed up by working on a very complex expense report with me, patiently guiding me through many changes to finalize it.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Denise Irish	Denise created a collection of questions and answers and the corresponding Banner screen where information can be found to respond to an inquiry. Result: This has reduced the workload on coordinators who previously needed to stop and ask someone for help navigating infrequently used banner screens and how to answer an inquiry.
	IANRE	Lacey Higham	Lacey is always extremely eager to help out with anything that needs doing when I have work on the farm even though she is not directly affiliated with my projects. Result: I was at the graduation and they showed video accounts of what students were thankful for. One student working for Lacey expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with Lacey and her flexibility. Students often point out their family, maybe friends, or instructors, but this is the only instance where I saw a non-academic supervisor.
	Office of Finance & Accounting	Wendy Huesties	Wendy consistently provides exceptional work. Result: Continued success in processes in UAF Finance & Accounting as she is able to take any of the projects assigned to her and run with it.
	Rasmuson Library	Jenna Ginnaty	She chaired the Circulation Workroom Redesign Committee, which resulted in improved use of space & streamlined workflow. Result: Improved access to library services and resources.
	Rasmuson Library	Angela Schmidt	Angie is head of the ��ҹ̽�� Film Archives at the library. Result: The outcomes of Angie's work are even more important to society as a whole, and to the university's commitment to research and the building of knowledge.
	Office of Finance & Accounting	Rachael Hewitt	The process of balancing and reconciliation for bank depositories has been long and manual for year. Result: With this major job duty greatly improved in both visibility and ease of processing, Rachael has had the time to address other cash management projects, and the department has been able to eliminate an entire position (Assistant Cash Manager) and use those savings for better auditing and review processes.
	Office of Finance and Accounting	Kari Mellmer	Kari has gone above and beyond her job duties this year by assisting other departments and her coworkers in crucial ways. Result: By agreeing to take on tasks outside of her duties, Kari has provided valuable help to understaffed departments, she's added support and training expertise for our newest hires, and she organizes employee events and outreach.
	Nanook Technology Services	Nathan Feemster	Nathan Feemster introduced a series of operational innovations that significantly improved service delivery and internal efficiency at UAF. Result: Nathan's initiatives have resulted in notable cost avoidance through contract audits and vendor consolidation, along with reduced reliance on external units.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Rachel Webb	Rachel has been the coordinator responsible for many large student groups, traveling often with underage students who are still open to choosing a University experience. Result: This is great outreach helping students to choose UAF!
	Institute of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Extension	Laura Weingartner	Laura joined our team as part of a gift-funded hire to build our capacity in communicating IANRE's contributions to research in ��ҹ̽��'s agricultural sector. Result: Laura's work in building our web presence, increasing our research blog and developing research field days at both of our farms resulted in statewide recognition of IANRE's contributions to ��ҹ̽�� agriculture.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Dana Hubb	In our department, there are many moving parts to track, and many different ways that each coordinator employs in order to accomplish that. Dana created a spreadsheet to share with all coordinators that is now being adopted by most if not all to track credit card charges for travelers. Result: This transaction log has improved the amount of time required for card reconciliation and research across our team of 14 purchasers.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Michael Szidloski	Michael has volunteered to serve on staff council to help hear and bring solutions to issues that staff bring up. Result: Improved morale, more informed employees and helps to create a culture of compliance through education.
	School of Education	Leah Brown	Dr. Brown developed a Critical Friends Group in the spring internship seminar using National School Reform Faculty (NSRF) protocols, including the Dilemma Consultancy Protocol, to support student teachers in reflective practice and problem-solving. Result: The implementation of the Critical Friends Group using NSRF protocols is expected to enhance student teachers' reflective thinking, problem-solving, and instructional decision-making.
	School of Education	Nikki Marshall	Nikki played a key role in supporting student teachers by facilitating access to funding opportunities, resulting in 65 Internship Scholarship recipients for 2025-26, including two Department of Labor awardees. Result: By securing internship funding and providing exceptional advising support, Nikki significantly improved the student experience through reduced financial stress and increased confidence in program navigation.
	School of Education	Shea Monsey	Shea led the reorganization and consolidation of HR files, streamlining documents from multiple past SOE human resources coordinators and folder owners into a more accessible and centralized system. Result: The reorganization of HR files is expected to reduce administrative workload hours by improving access and eliminating time spent searching through disorganized or duplicated records.
	Center for Teaching and Learning	Holly Cervin	This spring, our new Testing Center Manager successfully led the implementation of a major project to integrate single sign-on and expand functionality within an existing software platform. Result: In addition to advancing UAF testing services, she overhauled the professional licensure and certification testing offered by UAF eCampus to the Fairbanks North Star Borough.
	IANRE	Melissa Clampitt	Melissa brings people together, employees and community members alike and makes them feel welcome and important. Result: Melissa's dedication to community service and education has empowered young and old from all walks of life.
	Bristol Bay Campus	Hannah Moorcroft	Hannah has been with the campus for about 1.5 years as a Learning Center Coordinator in Naknek/King Salmon. Result: Hannah has fostered previous partnerships and also built new partnerships within her community.
	Bristol Bay Campus	Emma Wetter	Emma is BBC's Business Office Manager. Result: Emma takes initiative to develop streamline processes for the campus.
	Interior Campus	Carl Triplehorn	High school students and community members are not fully aware of the post-secondary school options due to the high turnover of teachers, school counselors, and tribal leaders. As a Community Outreach Facilitator for UAF's Interior Campus, I collaborate with regional bodies, such as school districts and the Tanana Chiefs, to concretely enhance their members' ability to advise students about post-secondary education and UAF. Result: This program increases the effectiveness and efficiency of recruitment by (1) decreasing the emphasis on cost transportation to rural communities, (2) specifically targeting rural students and (3) increasing students and community members making good educational choices.
	Music, College of Liberal Arts	Scott Hansen	Scott worked over 100 concerts or events during the 2024-25 academic year. Result: Giving him a monetary reward will hopefully boost morale and encourage him to continue his excellent service to UAF.
	Theatre & Film, College of Liberal Arts	Alex Gagne-Hawes	The Salisbury Theatre is currently undergoing Fire Code Corrections to improve safety and update the space to meet code. Result: Alex's diligence helps to ensure safe operation of a very heavily used public performance space on the UAF campus.
	Theatre & Film, College of Liberal Arts	Stephanie Rivet	Stephanie worked very hard to support theatre and film events during the 2024-25 academic year. Result: Giving her a monetary reward will hopefully boost morale and encourage her to continue her excellent service to UAF.
	Institute of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Extension	Julie Stricker	Julie participated in our Process Improvement Team to improve the process by which publications are updated and published by the Cooperative Extension. Result: Julie's efforts resulted in saved time and improved efficiency to ensure Cooperative Extension can advertise classes statewide and report on those efforts to federal funders with a fraction of the staff previously assigned to these duties.
	IANRE	Samantha Blumenkonig	Samantha Blumenkonig stepped into the role of Mat-Su/ Copper River 4-H Program Coordinator at the busiest time and culmination of the 4-H members' year- just prior to the ��ҹ̽�� State Fair. Result: Samantha has made improvements to the operations of the Mat-Su Copper River 4-H program, including re-doing the ��ҹ̽�� State Fair Exhibitors Guide which now gives a clearer outline for project/ presentation guidelines and expectations.
	IANRE	Kieran Gleason	Kieran Gleason stands out as an unparalleled source of support, guidance, and mentorship. Result: Kieran's outstanding support and mentorship have been directly responsible for empowering the garden to concentrate its energies on its core pillars of research, education, and outreach, thereby more effectively fulfilling its mission to enrich the lives of ��ҹ̽��ns through agriculture and horticulture.
	Upward Bound	Michelle Spillane	Michelle designed and launched a Bridging Program course to support Upward Bound (UB) and Upward Bound Math & Science (UBMS) students in making a smooth and successful transition to UAF. Result: Notably, 47 students recruited in the last two months with GPAs of 3.0 or higher have expressed their intent to enroll at UAF.
	College of Indigenous Studies	Laurie Trotta	Laurie goes above and beyond in her role as Program Coordinator by ensuring students feel supported and understand university processes, enhancing their overall experience. Result: Laurie's work as Program Coordinator directly contributes to improved efficiency and student success, ultimately benefiting the university's bottom line.
	College of Indigenous Studies	Kirsten McGraw	Kirsten has made significant strides in improving the operational efficiency of the bookstore by implementing effective processes that go well beyond standard expectations. Result: Her implementation of a live inventory system and the establishment of clear inventory processes has streamlined tracking, reducing the time spent on manual counts and ensuring more accurate reporting.
	College of Indigenous Studies	Lillian Maassen	Lillian has made significant strides in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the ANLC publication process. Result: These initiatives are expected to significantly reduce workload hours by streamlining submission and approval processes, increasing the number of publications produced each year.
	College of Indigenous Studies	Elvie Underwood	Elvie's efforts in enhancing the program's social media presence resulted in a 370% increase in Facebook page visits, a 154% increase in overall interactions, and a 158% increase in page follows. Result: The significant boost in social media metrics is expected to contribute to higher program visibility, potentially increasing student recruitment and program revenue.
	College of Indigenous Studies	Anne Record	Anne has gone above and beyond in managing a fully remote team while ensuring the CIS department meets critical operational goals. Result: Anne's ability to lead a remote team and implement optimized processes has resulted in substantial cost savings, including $230,300 over three years, and saved an estimated 150 hours annually.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Ivan Gallaher	Ivan supports over 100 full-time faculty and staff across multiple instructional sites throughout Fairbanks and ��ҹ̽��, as well as more than 200 adjunct instructors. Result: What sets Ivan apart is not just his technical skill, but his unwavering willingness to step in whenever and wherever needed.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Dianna James	It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Dianna James for recognition under the Empower ��ҹ̽�� program for her extraordinary commitment and unwavering dedication to the success of our college. Result: Dianna James's exceptional work has led to substantial cost avoidance by ensuring accurate, on-time payroll for over 300 employees, preventing potential late-payments and administrative corrections.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Jolie Phillips	Jolie Phillips exemplifies exceptional leadership and dedication in her role as Director of Student Services, overseeing critical operations that support nearly one-third of UAF's total student population through CTC. Result: What makes Jolie's contributions truly extraordinary is that she accomplishes all of this with just a two-person team.
	CLA	Carol Gray	Dr. Gray has worked non-stop to grow our CLA Pre-Law and WGSS programs. In all efforts she is ethical and absolutely student focused. Result: Through Dr. Gray's efforts CLA and UAF are positioning to recruit and enroll students interested in Law and social justice issues.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Rebecca Phillips	Becky Phillips demonstrates exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to student success in her role as Director of Student Success and General Academic Advising Coordinator. Result: Becky Phillips's exceptional support and guidance directly contribute to increased student retention and graduation rates, resulting in sustained tuition revenue and long-term enrollment stability for CTC.
	UAF Community & Technical College - Applied Business & Accounting	Kari Halverson	Kari Halverson is an outstanding example of leadership and dedication in her role as the Director of Marketing for CTC. Result: Kari Halverson's marketing efforts directly contribute to increased enrollment and engagement, driving potential revenue through greater awareness of CTC's programs across ��ҹ̽��.
	College of Liberal Arts	Daniel Darrow	Dan Darrow has transformed how we advise our students in CLA. Result: Through Dan's efforts, CLA has recruited, enrolled, retained, and cared for a greater number of students towards their successful graduation.
	College of Liberal Arts	Grace Carroll	Grace's efforts as a CLA advisor have been stellar. Result: Through Grace's efforts, CLA has seen increases in student recruitment, enrollment, retention and successful graduation.
	CNSM Department of Veterinary Medicine	Maren Johnson	Maren is an asset to the department of Veterinary Medicine and CNSM as a whole. Result: Maren's dedication to her position and those that she works with is admirable, and this dedication directly contributes to the positive experience of Vet Med students and faculty.
	College of Liberal Arts	Deborah Hicks	Deb Hicks helped to plan, execute, and complete a very complicated rehab of our CLA spaces (across three buildings). Result: Due to the work of Deb Hicks, our CLA faculty and students are able to work within upgraded spaces that truly modernize the student experience.
	School of Education	TJ O'Donnell	TJ has established a strong, adaptive presence within the School of Education, mastering the varied responsibilities of the role while fostering meaningful relationships with students, faculty, and campus partners. Result: Through consistent, student-centered support, TJ plays a vital role in advancing both the student experience and the strategic goals of the School of Education..
	School of Education	Olga Skinner	Dr. Skinner supports student teachers and the UAF School of Education through her leadership in advancing Indigenous education initiatives across ��ҹ̽��. She continues to build and strengthen the ��ҹ̽�� Indigenous Teacher Corps and Network, creating essential connections among ��ҹ̽�� Native educators. Result: Her efforts ensure meaningful, community-rooted educational experiences while aligning with SOE's mission to serve ��ҹ̽��'s diverse communities.
	School of Education	Elizabeth Greninger	Dr. Greninger is leading the launch of UAF SOE's innovative teacher apprenticeship pathway, set to begin in fall 2025 with cohorts in both elementary and secondary education. She is designing tailored two-year course sequences and developing a collaborative support model that integrates apprentices, district mentors, and university supervisors. Her coordination with district partners to recruit and onboard apprentices ensures strong school-based partnerships and real-world teaching experience. Result: Her contributions to this key initiative expands access to the teaching profession, especially in high-need areas, while advancing the SOE's commitment to workforce development and community-based teacher preparation.
	CNSM Dean's office	Jessica (Gracie) Banister	Gracie has recently moved into a recruitment/communications position for the college, while still training her replacement in the Chemistry office. Result: Gracie is a wonderful representative of the college and shows incredible dedication to student success.
	CNSM Dean's office	Jami Warrick	Jami has consistently thought improvement to operations in CNSM. Result: Cost savings include limted liability for replacement keys and property loss, bettere information flow leading to increased efficiency in overall operations.
	College of Engineering and Mines	Angela Wohlford	Angie served as the CEM organizer and point of contact for the Science Olympiad activities this year. Result: Not only did Science Olympiad present a strong STEM recruitment opportunity for an important target group (middle schoolers), but it provided our existing students with technical and leadership opportunities by serving as coaches/judges/etc.
	Institute of Northern Engineering	Kathy Petersen	Kathy is one of the most knowledgeable grant managers at UAF. Result: I believe this award is a modest, but very important investment to boost Kathy's morale, recognize her contributions, and ultimately help in retaining her as an excellent employee.
	Center for Teaching and Learning	Linsa Varghese	LJ Varghese developed and implemented a suite of operational improvements using UAF's existing enterprise license for Airtable, streamlining onboarding and internal workflow tracking across CTL's instructional design and media teams. Result: Faster onboarding, clearer project communication, and reduced friction in cross-team collaboration; workload efficiency gains and significant cost avoidance through smarter use of existing institutional tools.
	Center for Teaching and Learning	Zachary Cureton-Hazard	Zachary Cureton-Hazard has consistently modeled exceptional behavior through his leadership of high-impact learning initiatives that span two unit: CTL and Center ICE. Result: Broader access to innovation tools for faculty and students, improved instructional engagement, and increased interdisciplinary grant activity across colleges – all accomplished through strategic collaboration and effective resource use.
	Center for Teaching and Learning	Ian Borowski	Ian Borowski has consistently gone above and beyond his responsibilities by traveling to remote and challenging environments to capture high-quality instructional and outreach media. Result: Expanded capacity for remote teaching and research communication; improved public-facing representation of UAF's science and workforce development efforts; strong partnerships with faculty and external collaborators built through dependable, high-quality support.
	Center for Teaching and Learning	Mika McCrary	Mika McCrary consistently delivers beautiful, high-quality visual work that elevates UAF's online courses and public media projects. Result: Wider reach and stronger reputation for UAF's digital learning programs and research communication efforts; improved quality and brand distinction in both instructional and outreach media.
	UAF Rasmuson Library	Derwin Teague	For more than 10 years, Derwin has diligently performed most of the tedious yet essential "backbone" tasks that keep the UAF ��ҹ̽�� Film Archives operating and moving forward. Result: Derwin's abilities to digitize analog archival materials in-house have saved us untold thousands of dollars in vendor fees.
	UAF Rasmuson Library	Robyn Russell	For nearly 30 years, Robyn has been a cheerleader for the UAF Rasmuson library, for archives, and for the Oral History Unit. Result: Robyn serves as an exceptional guide to and advocate for the UAF Oral History program and collection.
	OGCA	Ryan Moritz	The Pre-Award Department has been operating under significant pressure to ensure that proposals are developed and approved amidst the ongoing uncertainty in the federal funding landscape. Result: Ryan has taken a proactive role in ensuring that top management is fully informed of the potential consequences should the Federal Government reduce our Indirect Cost Recovery (ICR).
	OGCA	Jared Jeffery	Jared is widely recognized as the go-to team member when support or guidance is needed on a project. Result: Jared's willingness to support his teammates has a direct impact on the university's operational efficiency and financial performance.
	CFOS / SMC	Edward deCastro	In his position as Port Captain for the R/V Sikuliaq, Ed faced unprecedented challenges in the years following the global Covid-19 pandemic. Result: Ed's innovative efforts, detailed above, were wildly successful and enabled Sikuliaq to stay fully crewed during the the mariner shortage crisis and beyond.
	Financial & Business Services	Carla Browning	Carla's dedication to the onboarding and engagement program at UAF is truly outstanding. Result: valuable onboarding program, employee retention, establishment of amentoring program, etc.
	Financial & Business Services	Michelle Bunch	Michelle has been a leader in OGCA even before officially joining the team. Result: By proactively managing changes in federal grants and contracts, she has strengthened staff retention and ensured the team stays informed and adaptable.
	Facilities Services	Michelle Strickland	Michelle developed a transparent methodology related to invoice and closeout status on construction and design contracts. Result: The division has been able to not only move a large backlog of final invoices to final payment and close the contract, but also has reduced the amount of time project teams and the director spend on closeout processes.
	Police	Valerie Rickards	Valerie is instrumental in the success of the police department in achieving our recruitment and hiring goals. Result: By achieving our hiring objectives we are able to minimize overtime costs to the department and the University.
	Police	Heidi Busack	Heidi brings a positive attitude to the department and community during every shift. Result: Heidi increases utilization of police services.
	Police	James Thomas III	Officer Thomas has done an exceptional job of building positive relationships and rapport within the UAF Community. Result: Officer Thomas's actions have led to a more positive view of the police department and our role at the University.
	UAF Police Department	Jim Bullock III	Jim Bullock demonstrated exceptional commitment during a critical staffing shortage by volunteering to work six 12-hour days, ensuring uninterrupted departmental operations. Result: Jim Bullock's extraordinary commitment during a staffing crisis– working six 12-hour days – prevented costly disruptions and avoided emergency staffing expenses, saving the department significant operational costs.
	Nanook Technology Services	Aleks McCormick	In summer 2022, we moved to a new IT ticketing tool, TeamDynamix. Result: We now use his workflows to automate our most common tickets and interactions.
	Nanook Technology Services	Jordan Lichtenberger	Jordan significantly enhanced the student employee experience by actively mentoring student workers and fostering a supportive environment. Result: Our student employees are more engaged at work, and actively talk about the issues they deal with at work and how to overcome them.
	NTS Collaboration and Learning Spaces	Nicholas Harrison	Nick has worked with Collaboration and Learning Spaces for nearly nine years, where he has increasingly demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment. Result: As a direct outcome of Nick's actions, the department's operational processes became significantly more efficient, directly benefiting students by ensuring access to essential learning technologies.
	Nanook Technology Services	James Greer	James played a key role in expanding the use of TeamDynamix across UAF's distributed IT teams. Result: James' work helped several IT teams better track, document and predict their daily IT operations.
	Nanook Technology Services	Rei Suzuki-Smith	Rei completely revitalized our outage communication process by creating improved standardized communication templates, better tracking documentation, and improved process documentation. Result: This effort enhances transparency and helps both IT teams and users respond more effectively during service disruptions, while leaving no room for mistakes in accountability.
	UAF Chancellors Office	Molly Anslinger	Governance leadership is the practice of guiding an organization with integrity, accountability, and strategic oversight to ensure it operates legally, ethically, and effectively. Result: Molly has been a driving force in championing governance awareness across faculty, staff, and students, fostering a culture grounded in accountability and ethical practice.
	Facilities services	Belinda Snyder	My employee worked diligently to improve our maintenance inventory system by removing dead stock, replacing outdated items with more efficient alternatives, and collaborating closely with our shop supervisors to ensure that the inventory aligns with the technicians' needs. Result: These changes reduced downtime and ensured critical maintenance supplies are always available.
	Facilities Services	Ashley Hall	A unique requirement of our power plant is a complete inspection of the steam turbine generator every 2 years. Result: Thru her negotiations and persistence, and creativity on travel expenses, the contractor's price was reduced from $1M to $650k.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Wendy Wood	Wendy has created a learning atmosphere for procurement functions in the TCSO. Result: This effort greatly enhances the ability of the department to function well and to serve university travelers in a more efficient way.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Lacey Guffey	Lacey organizes, arranges and reorganizes travel for the men's basketball team travel. Result: With Lacey's support, students can focus on their academic and athletic goals because their travel and expense reports are taken care of.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Glenn Balanza	Glenn consistently goes above and beyond expectations by providing hands-on, "boots on the ground" assistance to students at the Kuskokwim campus. Result: His commitment is an example of profound care for both his department and student community.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Alyssa Perez	Alyssa provides vital support in assigning orphaned card charges, complementing Wendy Wood's nomination for streamlining travel transactions through the move to a single card system. Result: This effort ultimately means that UAF, UAA, UAS and the SO can rely on transactions posting to Concur profiles timely and accurately reducing instances where we reimburse transactions that were university paid or filing additional expense reports and it saves the administrative burden of needing to collect funds back from travelers reimbursed in error.
	NTS Technology Support Services	Alexander Winger	Alex is our newest employee and our highest performer. Result: As stated above, Alex is our highest performing employee.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Joy Snodgrass	"Thank you for calling the travel department! This is Joy, how can I help you?" When you call the TCSO and connect with Joy, that is how you can expect to be greeted on every phone call. Result: Her reliable work and adaptability has made it for those groups to successfully conduct their research in remote locations and contribute to the overall research at UAF.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Travis Brinzow	Travis is a go to coordinator for much of IARC because he understands their programs and needs. Result: This effort leads to a better student experience and a seamless reimbursement process with no surprises regarding the allowability of charges incurred along the way.
	Facilities Services	Corrina Conkle	Corri is taking initiative on projects outside normal duties, volunteering for additional responsibilities during high-demand periods. Result: The employee's work supports or drives the accomplishment of important and time-sensitive business goals, ensuring continuity and success in operations when the stakes are high, delivering results that have an outsized impact on the organization.
	NTS Tchnology Support Services	Brandon Becker	UAF started the first film production degree program in the State in 2011. Result: Without Brandon Becker, the UAF and Film and Performing Arts programs would not have been able to keep up with the changing technologies in digital video."
	Travel Customer Service Office	Serena Likar	Serena has so much experience at UAF helping students successfully navigate travel. Result: With this additional support, students can focus on their academic and athletic goals because their travel arrangements and expense reports are taken care of.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Kimberly LaJiness	Kim works with the swim team and keeps up with the changes to swimmers and locations as the season progresses. Result: With Kim's support, students can focus on their academic and athletic goals because they know their travel arrangements and expense reports are taken care of.
	Travel Customer Service Office	Carolynn Blankenship	Carolynn works part time, but available full time for students and employees with accurate information and keen attention to detail to make sure that students can add travel to their educational experience. Result: Carolynn puts students first in all interactions ensuring the best possible academic and travel experience.
	Chancellor's Office	Aimee Richards	Aimee has elevated the profile of the UAS Career Services Office since she started in the position two years ago - working hard as a one person office to instill a value of "Careers Everywhere." From new student orientation to working with seniors she focus' on students career related goals. Result: Recent statistics: UAS students: 104.8% increase in job apps submitted in Handshake FY24 to FY25.

UAS individual awardees are not publicly available