UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- The University Staff Advisory Council (USAC) is seeking nominations for its annual Staff Recognition Awards. The awards are a way for USAC to help the University community express its gratitude for the contribution of staff across the Commonwealth. Faculty, staff, administrators and students are asked to nominate Penn State staff members from every campus and all work units whom they feel exemplify the traits and abilities specified in each award. 

All full-time staff members are eligible and anyone at the University may submit a nomination. Every nomination is considered on its own merit and will be given equal consideration regardless of type or level of staff position held within the University. 

Each year USAC presents three awards: the Staff Excellence Award, the Staff Morale Award and the Staff Leadership Award. The awards will be presented at a luncheon in May hosted by President Eric Barron and his wife, Molly, at Schreyer House. To nominate a staff person, send a letter of nomination along with no more than three additional letters of support/nomination to askUSAC@psu.edu. Nominations must be received by March 1. 

Criteria for each award is listed below and nomination forms are available at ohr.psu.edu/university-staff-advisory-council. Questions about the awards may be sent to askUSAC@psu.edu and put Staff Awards in the subject line. 

USAC – The voice for Penn State staff – consists of committed staff who act in an advisory capacity to the central administration; explore issues, policies, and practices that impact staff; suggest revisions to policies and new policy initiatives; and advocate for staff welfare and development.

Staff Excellence Award 

The purpose of this award is to recognize a Penn State University staff person who demonstrates integrity, respect, and excellence in all aspects of their position. 

Criteria: 

• Exhibits creativity, innovation, and initiative. 
• Continues to seek opportunities for personal and professional growth. 
• Demonstrates excellence in professionalism. 
• Promotes productive relationships across units and/or organizations. 
• Makes outstanding contributions to their immediate work unit as well as the university as a whole. 
• Demonstrates commitment to and support of University values, including integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence and community. 

Staff Morale Award 

The purpose of this award is to recognize a University staff person who demonstrates enthusiasm and optimism in order to create a positive, inclusive and supportive work environment for all. 

Criteria: 

• Fosters respect and a cooperative work climate. 
• Recognizes potential within others. 
• Demonstrates concern for the well-being of coworkers. 
• Able to provide the support and guidance needed to help make life better for those around them. 
• Demonstrates commitment to and support of University values, including integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence and community. 

Staff Leadership Award 

The purpose of this award is to recognize a University staff person who demonstrates excellence in leadership and serves as a positive role model for others. 

Criteria: 

• Exhibits reliability and resourcefulness. 
• Demonstrates ability to mentor, inspire, motivate, and support others. 
• Displays sound judgement and exemplary problem solving skills. 
• Promotes excellence in teamwork, performance, and achievement within the unit and/or the organization. 
• Demonstrates commitment to and support of University values, including integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence and community.