University Times

Staff nominees are being sought for the Chancellor's Award for Excellence. Up to five awards of $2,500 each will be presented for the 1997-98 academic year.

Winners also will have their names inscribed on a plaque in the William Pitt Union and be recognized at a staff recognition reception and Pitt's annual honors convocation.

The Chancellor's Award for Excellence for staff is equivalent to the Chancellor's Distinguished Teaching, Research and Public Service awards for faculty. This is the second year for the staff award.

"I believe that the Chan-cellor's Award for Excellence sends a clear message to the University community that the extraordinary efforts of staff are worthy of recognition and reward and are greatly appreciated," Chancellor Mark Nordenberg said.

Students, faculty, staff and alumni can submit nominations for the award. Nominations are being accepted by Gary Houston, chair of the selection committee, 130 William Pitt Union. The deadline for nominations is Oct. 28.

According to award guidelines, candidates must have demonstrated a consistent pattern of extraordinary dedication to the University above and beyond their job responsibilities. They also must have demonstrated a consistent pattern of voluntary services of significant importance to the Pitt community, the local community and/or professional organizations that has enhanced the reputation of Pitt regionally, nationally or internationally. Nomination criteria may include exceptional contributions made by the staff member toward the effectiveness of a unit or department; implementation of an innovative approach to a job that impacts on productivity; development of a cost-saving idea; excellent customer service; volunteering for and working on special projects; serving on a committee and contributing to its success; consistently demonstrating positive interpersonal relationships that support the diversity of the University; making special efforts to recognize excellence in others; contributing to an exceptionally supportive, team-oriented environment.

The award is open to all full-time and part-time staff who have been employed at Pitt a minimum of three years during which the staff member has demonstrated a consistent pattern of excellence.

Nominations must contain a one-page letter stating that the candidate meets or exceeds the guidelines for the award, and supporting documentation. Required information includes a completed job history form, a letter of verification from the candidate's supervisor and, if applicable, the names of individuals who utilize the services of the nominee.

Optional information could include a list of services the candidate has performed for the University, including all assignments on committees and task forces, and recommendations from officials of significant community and/or professional organizations in which the candidate has served, with relevant information such as clippings from publications.

Staff members, even those who win an award, may be re-nominated. The committee will use the following guidelines for selecting award winners:

* A staff member may receive an award a maximum of twice.

* Excellence should be demonstrated in a consistent pattern for a minimum of one year and be ongoing at the time a candidate is being considered for an award.

* Awards will be given to the five best candidates. If there are no worthy candidates, the award may not granted.