May 8, 2026

On May 7, the UCF College of Arts and Humanities hosted its annual Staff Awards ceremony, celebrating the dedication, excellence and lasting contributions of its staff members. The event underscored the college’s ongoing commitment to recognizing the vital role staff play in the university’s success.

Three outstanding staff members were recognized with prestigious awards, each receiving a $1,000 prize in appreciation of their hard work and commitment.

One award was presented in honor of the late David Vickers, Ph.D., a respected faculty member who served as the first chair of the digital media department and later as assistant to the dean in both the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Arts and Humanities.

Another award honored Bruce Whisler, Ph.D., associate professor emeritus, who joined UCF in 1971. Over his career, he developed and taught a wide range of music history and literature courses. After retiring in 2001, he continued to serve the university in roles within the Office of Academic Affairs and as interim director of the Nicholson School of Communication.

The third award was presented in memory of the late Tony Travaglini, who served as the technical manager for the College of Arts and Sciences for nearly 20 years.

The ceremony served as a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the contributions of staff and reflect on the enduring impact of those whose legacy continues to shape the college and university community.


CAH Staff Award Winners

 

Dave Schreier, School of Performing Arts
Recipient of the award in honor of Dr. Bruce Whisler

Jason Fronezek, School of Visual Arts and Design
Recipient of the award in honor of Dr. David Vickers

Devin Wiebelt, College of Arts and Humanities
Recipient of the award in honor of Tony Travaglini


CAH Staff Award Nominees

 

Allison Rexrode, School of Performing Arts

Carla Gripp, CAH Dean’s Office

Dave Schreier, School of Performing Arts

Devin Wiebelt, CAH Dean’s Office

Jason Fronczek, School of Visual Arts & Design

Lindsay Kuznia, Department of Writing & Rhetoric

Lisa Clendenning, CAH FBC

Mariana Chao, Department of Writing & Rhetoric

Meghan Crowther, English Department 

Olivia Deiter, School of Performing Arts

James Cleveland, School of Performing Arts


CAH Service Awards

 

Recognized for 5 years of service
  • Olivia Deiter, School of Performing Arts
  • Allison Rexrode, School of Performing Arts
For 10 years of service
  • Angela Harris, CAH FBC
For 15 years of service
  • Heather Gibson, CAH Marketing and Communications
For 20 years of service
  • Suzanne Lin, CAH HRBC
  • Trisha Farmer, CAH Dean’s Office
  • Susan Glerum, School of Performing Arts
For 25 years of service
  • Denise Matias, CAH FBC
For 30 years of service
  • Sue Ann Mann, CAH Dean’s Office
  • Cathy Radzai, CAH FBC

 

To view the list of past awardees, click here.