University Times

Nominations are currently being accepted for the new Chancellor's Award for Excellence.

The award honors staff who have demonstrated dedication to the University beyond the responsibilities of their job. It is the equivalent of the Chancellor's Distinguished, Teaching, Research and Public Service Awards for faculty.

"I believe that the Chancellor's Award for Excellence sends a clear message to the University that the extraordinary efforts of staff are worthy of recognition and reward, and are greatly appreciated," Chancellor Mark Nordenberg noted in a prepared statement.

Up to five awards of $2,500 each will be given to staff for the 1996-97 academic year. Names of recipients also will be engraved on a permanent plaque located in the William Pitt Union.

Any member of the University community may nominate a staff member for an award, including students and alumni. The deadline for nominations is Dec. 15. Nominations should be sent to: Robert Dunkelman, 159 Cathedral of Learning.

Selection for the Chancellor's Award for Excellence is based on two main criteria. To be considered, a staff member should:

* Display a consistent pattern of extraordinary dedication to the University, above and beyond his or her job responsibilities.

* Show a consistent pattern of voluntary service of significant importance to the University, the local community and/or professional organizations that has enhanced the reputation and prestige of Pitt regionally, nationally or internationally.

Numerous other criteria also may be taken into consideration on a optional basis. They include: * Exceptional contributions toward the effectiveness/efficiency of a unit/department.

* Development of a cost-saving idea that enhances departmental effectiveness.

* Excellent customer service, such as minimizing delays and assuring responsive, timely, professional 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 community.

* Making special efforts to recognize excellence in others.

* Creating extra opportunities to improve skills and abilities.

* Contributing to an exceptionally supportive, team-oriented environment.

All full-time and part-time staff members who have been at Pitt a minimum of three years are eligible for the award.

Nomination packets must include a one-page letter stating that the nominee meets or exceeds the guidelines for the award, as well as supporting documentation.

Required information includes a completed nomination form, a letter of verification from the candidate's supervisor and, if applicable, the names of individuals who have utilized the services of the nominee, such as faculty, staff, students and alumni.

Optional additional information includes a listing of services that the candidate has performed for the University, such as assignments on committees and task forces, recommendations and a listing of services from officials of community and/or professional organizations that the candidate has served.

Relevant newspaper clippings, publications and other information involving achievement awards that the candidate has received should be included with the optional information.

A staff member may be renominated for an award, even if he or she has won one in the past. However, a new nomination letter and supporting evidence to support the renomination must be presented to the selection committee.

–Mike Sajna