Friday, September 24, 2021
For the second year, the UNCW Staff Award for Excellence ceremony was held virtually. The awards recognize members of the campus community who have excelled in their service to UNCW in the categories of customer service, efficiency and innovation, human relations, public service and spirit of North Carolina.
“I miss gathering with all of you, in person, to celebrate these outstanding Seahawks, but connecting on Zoom is the next best thing,” said Chancellor Jose V. Sartarelli. “All of us have spent a lot of energy over the past 18 months managing difficult circumstances caused by the pandemic. Thank you for your perseverance. You represent Seahawk spirit at its finest, and I appreciate your dedication to our students and to our university.”
Katrin Wesner-Harts ’16Ed.D., director of the Student Health Center, is this year’s recipient of the UNCW Staff Award for Excellence.
“Among a campus of exceptional faculty and staff, many of whom have stepped up their game during COVID to help keep UNCW functioning at a high level, Katrin has emerged as a star among a bright constellation,” wrote Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students Michael A. Walker in his nomination letter. “It took mental and moral strength to persist in the face of student angst, staff fear and personal sacrifice. She simply has been steadfast in her leadership and guidance for UNCW during one of the most challenging periods of this institution.”
In addition to Wesner-Harts, four individuals will be considered for the Governor’s Award of Excellence, the highest honor bestowed on a state employee:
- Joanna DeMott, Office of Military Affairs
- Robb Mann, Information Technology Services
- Brandon Organ, Office of Facilities
- Angie Wiggins, University Police Department
Other 2021 Staff Award for Excellence nominees:
- Ashley Adams
- Lisa Bertini
- Megan Canny
- Ashley Cribb
- John Diakogiannis
- Jonathan Graves
- Vinnie Gregory
- Michelle Hafey
- Laketa Hammonds
- Avianne Harris
- Feletia Lee
- Tami Mansur
- Brent Shelton
- Sarah Smith
- Lori Speakman
- Phoebe Tseh
As the recipient of the Staff Award for Excellence, Wesner-Harts receives $1,500, a reserved parking space for a year, a framed certificate, a commemorative clock and her name will be placed on the Award for Excellence plaque in Alderman Hall. Each nominee receives a framed certificate and three days of additional vacation time.
— Caroline Cropp
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