April 22, 2021
College of Veterinary Medicine presents third annual staff awards
Amidst the challenges of the pandemic over the past year, a select group of 20 College of Veterinary Medicine, or CVM, staff members stood out as they rose to meet those challenges.
From this group of nominees, eight awardees were honored and presented with one of three different awards at a staff luncheon on April 5.
The luncheon was hosted by the college's Staff Council, which represents all unclassified and university support staff in the college. Established in 2017, one of the main priorities of the Staff Council was to acknowledge staff members for their contributions to the college's mission.
Boxed lunches were provided for the staff nominees, as well as those who nominated the staff members. All other staff were invited to attend the luncheon via Zoom and pick up their lunches to take back to their desks.
Gina Scott, computer information specialist and chair of the Staff Council, said one way the council chose to promote staff is through a staff awards program, which was launched in 2018.
"The purpose of the staff awards is for us to take the opportunity to recognize the hard work of our CVM staff," Scott said. "It gives us a chance to say thank you and that we appreciate their contributions to the college. Recognizing the accomplishments of others brings a sense of family to our college. Part of the awards includes a cash prize to confirm our commitment to supporting our people."
"This year was especially challenging for our CVM staff members given the COVID-19 pandemic," said Bonnie Rush, dean of the veterinary college. "It is a pleasure to honor our hard-working and committed staff who did not let the difficult circumstances of the past year slow them down."
The award categories are High Five Award; Culture, Collegiality and Compassion Award; and Commitment to Excellence Award. Nominations can be submitted by any faculty, staff or administrators in the college, but must be accompanied by at least two letters of support.
"It was super to have so many staff recognized by their peers and supervisors on all the hard work they did during a very difficult year," Scott said. "The council also appreciates so many people stepping up to make those nominations."
The recipients are as follows:
High Five Award: Kristina Wyatt, histopathology, Veterinary Diagnostic Lab. Presented to an employee who has gone above and beyond in enhancing one or more components of the College of Veterinary Medicine's mission of exceptional teaching, impactful research, outstanding service, extraordinary graduates.
Culture, Collegiality and Compassion Award: Amber Melton, veterinary nurse II. Presented to an employee who enhances a feeling of belonging for all of the College of Veterinary Medicine and creates a more inclusive environment while enhancing the College of Veterinary Medicine's mission of exceptional teaching, impactful research, outstanding service, extraordinary graduates.
Commitment to Excellence Award: Presented to six employees who have gone beyond in enhancing one or more components of the College of Veterinary Medicine's mission of exceptional teaching, impactful research, outstanding service, extraordinary graduates.
Recipients:
Brooke Neiberger, veterinary nurse I and director of the Canine Blood Donor Program.
Carrie Fiest, histology, Veterinary Diagnostic Lab.
Jennifer Panzer, veterinary nursing supervisor.
Kent Nelson, video producer.
Marla Pyle, laboratory administrator in the department of anatomy and physiology.
Scott Morrill, media production specialist.