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<\/p>\nOn May 1, 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\u2019s ongoing commitment to recognizing the vital role staff play in the university\u2019s success.<\/p>\n
Three outstanding staff members were recognized with prestigious awards, each receiving a $600 prize in appreciation of their hard work and commitment.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Lauren Becker<\/b>, School of Performing Arts Mike Shier<\/b>, Center for Humanities and Digital Research Maribel Herrera<\/b>, Department of Philosophy Lee Ann Gemeunhart<\/strong>, CAH Finance Buisness Center, Travel and Procurement Team Dave Schreier<\/strong>, School of Performing Arts Meghan Crowther<\/strong>, Department of English Michael Leavitt<\/strong>, CAH Marketing and Communications Team
\nRecipient of the award in honor of Dr. Bruce Whisler
\n<\/em>Lauren Becker is a proactive and dependable team member who consistently looks for ways to improve operations and offer support where it\u2019s needed. Her efforts play a key role in keeping the theatre program running efficiently, and the faculty have come to rely on her initiative, strong organizational skills, and warm, collaborative attitude.<\/p>\n
\nRecipient of the award in honor of Dr. David Vickers
\n<\/em>As a Research Specialist and the Journals Manager for the Center for Humanities & Digital Research, Mike is an integral team member and his efforts on behalf of the Center and College have been outstanding. The impact of his work is broad as he works with the editors of over a dozen journals across all disciplines in the College and creates and maintains project and conference websites. He has made lasting impact as mentor for graduate students through their experiences with publications and project management.<\/p>\n
\nRecipient of the award in honor of Tony Travaglini
\n<\/em>Through the Department of Philosophy, Maribel has become highly reliable and always comes to work with a positive and conscientious attitude. She is always showing exceptional effort and dedication in her administrative role, while excelling in her professional abilities, Maribel is always responsive and patient with warmth and concern for students and faculty.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\nCAH Staff Award Nominees<\/h3>\n
\nLee Ann Gemeinhart is an outstanding employee who consistently goes above and beyond her job as a TPC to help multiple units, faculty, staff and even other units she is not assigned to. Her attention to detail and work ethic are noticeable and very much appreciated by the units she serves.<\/p>\n
\nDave Schreier is highly respected by students, colleagues, and alumni alike. Known for wearing many hats with unwavering dedication and professionalism, he often flies beneath the radar while effectively carrying out his responsibilities. Dave consistently keeps students at the center of his work, always striving to enhance their experiences and support their success.<\/p>\n
\nMeghan’s initiative, her sense of responsibility, her insight, and her meticulousness and accuracy have made her invaluable to the department. She constantly has a positive attitude and commitment as an unparalleled aspect that ensures the success of the department. Meghan is an integral member of the English Department, ensuring operations run smoothly and effectively.<\/p>\n
\nMichael supports a variety of custom applications for scholarships, room scheduling, music juries, advising, chair\/director evaluation, Dean\u2019s List, and more. He created many of these tools and maintains them on a yearly or semesterly basis. Michael is thoughtful and adaptable, always displaying an eager and helpful attitude in his service to the college.<\/p>\n
\nCAH Service Awards<\/h3>\n
Recognized for 5 years of service<\/h5>\n