University Support Staff Senate

University Support Staff Opportunity Fund

The University Support Staff Opportunity Fund is funded by All‐University Campaign donations and managed by the Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance. The purpose of this fund is to provide financial resources for University Support Staff based on extraordinary effort in their position, service to the university community, and/or leadership exhibited. This fund may also be used for academic achievement or work expenses not funded by their department.

  • Meritorious Service Award – $200 may be awarded to university support staff who demonstrate exceptional leadership and/or extraordinary effort in their position which proves to be a valuable service to the K‐State community. Current faculty, staff, administrators, and/or students may nominate university support staff members to be considered for this award. Nominations can be sent to 105 Anderson Hall, Attn: Tara Fronce, throughout the year. Awardees are recognized during the annual University Support Staff Recognition & Award Ceremony.
  • Personal reimbursement of up to 50% of textbook expenses, not to exceed $100, for classes taken for academic credit. Applicants must send the reimbursement form, original receipt and a copy of their class schedule to 105 Anderson Hall, Attn: Tara Fronce.
  • Personal reimbursement of seminar or conference expenses which were attended to improve current work skills, not to exceed $100. Applicants must send the reimbursement form and registration receipt to 105 Anderson Hall, Attn: Tara Fronce.


Awards

All benefits-eligible university support staff (USS) employees, full or part time, are eligible to be nominated for several awards. Self-nominations cannot be considered.


University Support Staff Award of Excellence

This university-wide award was established to recognize exemplary performance and contributions of university support staff members who consistently excel in their positions and demonstrate integrity and a strong commitment to the mission and values of K-State. Winners receive $1,000 (pre-tax). Awardees are recognized during the annual University Support Staff Recognition & Award Ceremony.

Current faculty, staff, administrators, and/or students may nominate university support staff members to be considered for this award. The Nomination form is open annually from February to mid-March. The 2025 nomination period closed on March 14th.


University Support Staff Access and Opportunity Award

This university-wide award was established to recognize outstanding work on fostering a community of connection at K-State. Winners receive $1,000 (pre-tax). Awardees are recognized during the annual University Support Staff Recognition & Award Ceremony.

Current faculty, staff, administrators, and/or students may nominate university support staff members to be considered for this award. The Nomination form is open annually from February to mid-March. The 2025 nomination period closed on March 14th.


University Support Staff of the Year Award

Departments may provide a monetary award not to exceed $300 (pre-tax) per fiscal year up to two employees. The award is paid using department funds or foundation funds.