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  Home > Star Performer Awards
 
Past Award Recipients.

October 2006
October 2005
October 2004
October 2003
October 2002

February 2002
June 2001
February 2001
June 2000
November 1999

 

OCTOBER 2006

Hersi Abdi (Building and Grounds Worker, Facilities Management) is recognized for exceeding expectations in both his daily tasks and special projects. As custodian of Pillsbury Hall, he is always looking for ways to make life easier for the students, staff and faculty of the Department of Geology and Geophysics, the sole occupiers of the building. He consistently demonstrates efficiency, reliability and pride in his work. But more important, he is respectful to all and respected by all.

Moses Atilade (Building and Grounds Worker, Facilities Management) is recognized for exceeding expectations in both his daily tasks and special projects. As custodian of Pillsbury Hall, he is always looking for ways to make life easier for the students, staff and faculty of the Department of Geology and Geophysics, the sole occupiers of the building. He consistently demonstrates efficiency, reliability and pride in his work. But more important, he is respectful to all and respected by all.

Wayne Durst (Building and Grounds Worker, Facilities Management) is a Star Performer because his dedication and the quality of his work are exception. He consistently goes over and above the job requirements. His caring, cheerful, pleasant and engaging personality combined with his top-notch performance and work ethic make Wayne an asset to the University.

Randy Lindorfer (Prepress Lead Operator, Printing Services) is recognized for providing exemplary customer service in all areas of his job. He develops teaching materials for the sales staff and their customers to communicate complicated information, often resulting in financial saving for both the customer and Printing Services. A talented prepress operator, randy can always figure out a way to accomplish the “impossible.” He’s an excellent trouble-shooter for his departments, as well as other areas. His extensive knowledge base and dedication to service make him a valued member of the University community.

Ron Mikel (Paint Foreman, Facilities Management) receives this award because he leads by example – consistently demonstrating superior service, attitude and competence. He is a great problem-solver always striving t find the best way to get a job done in the most efficient manner. A solid citizen, Ron follows through on his word and keeps people informed of progress. He is conscientious to a fault and takes tremendous pride in his work. He works well with co-workers, customers and other trades and outside vendors making him a great representative of the University.

Chris Nault (Building and Grounds Worker, Facilities Management) is recognized for quietly inspiring others to do their best. As a custodian in LRB/MTRF, Chris is on the front lines of establishing a good first impression of the University. He succeeds tremendously by anticipating needs, problem-solving trouble spots and always staying a step ahead. Devoted to his job, Chris is consistently reliable and constantly takes his customer needs into consideration. His example encourages others to do the same and is valued by the University.

The Enterprise Financial System Workgroup Leadership Team, made up of Tom Quinn, Wayne Tauber, and Shari Zeise, receives this recognition for spearheading University Services’ participation in the EFS project, which is closely linked to the President’s Strategic Initiatives. By engaging others to participate and leveraging their skills and expertise, the team helps ensure successful implementation of a new financial system that will affect virtually all of the University’s financial processes. Demonstrating leadership, commitment and service, the teams’ ability to coordinate and communicate a vital, complex project is a significant benefit to the University.

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OCTOBER 2005

Grant Anderson and Anthony Bettendorf (Coordinator of Residential Life and Pioneer Residence Hall Director, Housing and Residential Life) receive this award for designing, developing and implementing a campus wide social justice retreat for students with the goal of creating a more respectful university community. Gary and Anthony successfully created a retreat described by students as a powerful and unique experience that opened their hearts and minds to new ways of looking at difference, identity, oppression, social justice, privilege and activism. Their commitment to the vision of the University is inspiring and valued by students, staff and faculty.

Karen Collins (Zone Administrator, Facilities Management) receives this award for her reliable, enthusiastic customer service with a smile. Karen displays professionalism and a high level of responsibility especially in emergency situations. She is dedicated, attentive and efficient in the way in which she interacts with customers and her attitude, both personally and professionally, makes the Health Sciences zone a great place to work and visit at the University of Minnesota.

Brikti Haile (Building and Grounds Worker, Facilities Management) is recognized for exceeding all criteria with her responsiveness, dependability, productivity and excellent quality work, all of the time. She is a consistently positive and energetic personality and is approachable and responds promptly and pleasantly to request as they arise. Brikti anticipates the needs of her customers and initiates action before it becomes a concern or problem, making her a true asset to our organization.

Leon Mott (Senior Food Service Worker, University Dining Services) is recognized for exemplifying the very best in customer service and pride in his job that is unmatched at the University. Leon’s warm greetings, captivating wit and smart observations keep students, staff and faculty coming back every day. His pleasant, gracious disposition and engaging smile sets him apart from others and shows that Leon is a dedicated contributor to the University of Minnesota.

Kirk Richardson (Operations Supervisor, Facilities Management) receives this award for his extreme level of customer service, leadership, accountability and integrity. Kirk has been described by his customers as competent, conscientious and courteous and these qualities are reflected in the excellent work he provides. He illustrates strength and integrity in how he relates to others and the positive attitude towards his crew. He is a great representation of a member of the University community who takes pride in delivering a high level of service.

HOMES Team (Housing and Residential Life) made up of Mannix Clark, Jill Froehlich, Erin Reicks, Erling Kurtti, Donna Pietsch, Doug Pham, Joe Ceasar and Tom White, receives this award for their devotion to the implementation of the new Housing Occupancy Management Enterprise System (HOMES). The goals of this project were to enhance customer satisfaction, increase effectiveness and efficiency, and maximize the use of financial and human resources. These goals were met by each member of this team and they are commended for their professionalism and patience throughout this project and in their regular job performance. The extreme level of service, leadership, accountability and integrity that was demonstrated by this group has benefited the University students and staff tremendously during the fall 2005 housing assignment process.

Zone 5 Electrician Team (Facilities Management) made up of Doug Collins, Curt Mattila and Darrell Bergum, receives this award for their superior customer service, outstanding reliability, and being excellent stewards of the University. In a very time sensitive situation this team was called upon to take the initiative and get the job done. They came up with several smart solutions to complete the job that was asked of them and all along doing it with friendly attitudes. Their professionalism, excellent leadership and commitment to being stewards of this University will no doubt drive us towards being one of the top universities in the world.

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OCTOBER 2004

Tony Bittner (Administrative Professional, Fleet Services) receives this award for his many examples of superior customer service. Tony goes above and beyond his job duties to resolve problems beyond customer expectations. His commitment to customer service, friendly attitude and professionalism is valued by many departments at the University of Minnesota.

Patti Cleland (Building and Grounds Worker, Facilities Management) receives this award for outstanding customer service, responsibility and integrity. Patti regularly exceeds expectations by her attention to small details and is ready to provide help and service at a moment's notice. Patti is pleasant, helpful, and responsible and does an amazing job making Alderman Hall a clean and safe place to work and visit.

Verlin Harmon (Building and Grounds Worker, Facilities Management), a devoted employee of 18 years, exceeds all criteria with his responsiveness, dependability, productivity and excellent quality work, all of the time. Verlin not only takes the extra steps to insure that the areas he works in are clean, but also safe for occupants. His pleasant, friendly disposition and engaging smile sets him apart from others and shows that Verlin is a dedicated contributor to the University of Minnesota.

Greg Hayes (Assistant Director, Department of Emergency Management), titled "Homerun Hayes" for his exceptional accomplishments in a short period of time with superior results, setting the stage for continual excellence by Emergency Management. Greg brings a depth of experience along with a positive, high energy, service-orientated attitude. He has raised the reputation of the University emergency management program and strives for continuous improvement not only within his department but also in his own professional development.

Bill Knobel (Building and Grounds Worker, Facilities Management) receives this award for excellent customer service, taking the initiative, exceeding expectations and his outstanding reliability. Bill is known by others for his moral principles and outstanding honesty. Bill stands out by his contribution to the University's diversity by learning and teaching sign language to make it possible to communicate effectively with a member of his team that is hearing impaired. He is a great representation of a member of the University community who takes pride in delivering a high level of service.

Ruthann Manlet (Shift Supervisor, Facilities Management) receives this award for her professionalism, excellent leadership and commitment to the continuous improvement of our Custodial Program, making her a positive role model in Facilities Management and at the University of Minnesota. Ruthann's strong work ethic and positive attitude are well known by those who work with her. She is a team player, always willing to assist when needed and has earned the trust and respect of those she works with.

UMPD receives this award for their extreme level of service, leadership, accountability and integrity. These qualities are key to the success of the UMPD and necessary to gain the confidence and cooperation of other law enforcement partners and to sustain a quality of life around our campus. The UMPD is commended for reaching beyond the everyday expectations needed to keep our campus a safe and secure place to teach, learn and work.

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OCTOBER 2003

Constantina "Tina" Byers (Custodian, Elliot and Burton Halls), recognized by those she serves for her distinctive pride in a job well-done. Always professional in demeanor and appearance, ready to provide help and service at a moment's notice, and extremely warm and friendly.

Yvonne Johnson (Custodian, Jackson Hall), a pleasant ray of sunshine; always professional, always thorough, always ready to go the extra mile. She stays strong and faithful and lives everyday with a commitment to goodness.

Bob Swoverland (Printing Services Representative), recognized by his customers for his many wonderful examples of superb customer service. His consistent patience, easygoing attitude, and relentless attention to meeting deadlines result in valuable contributions to countless departments at the University of Minnesota.

Greg Priester (Custodian, Eddy Hall), recognized by his colleagues in Eddy Hall for consistently demonstrating effort that exceeds all expectations. He is a great representation of a member of the University community taking pride in delivering a high level of service.

Jeff Bouley (Supervisor, Parking and Transportation Services), recognized by his colleagues in the Bell Museum for his work ethic and devotion to the visitor experience on campus. He is friendly, flexible and always "on the lookout" for win-win situations for the departments he serves.

Central Security Team (Mark Courneya, Steve Frisk, Brian McDonald, June Ursel, Gail Wagner), recognized for their extreme level of involvement, cooperation, and contributions to the successful team effort to meet the University of Minnesota's security and safety goals. Their outstanding efforts have created a safer, more secure campus in which to teach, learn, and work.

John Ensley (University Dining Services), recognized by the University of Minnesota for consistently and quietly providing quality food on campus, and for his devotion to preparing meals for the University football team. He is creative and professional, and he steps up and handles a lot of responsibility and does it well.

Mike Nagel (Facilities Management), recognized for bringing the concept of utilizing oat hulls as a biomass fuel to the University of Minnesota. Through his expertise and leadership, this innovative project has been driven forward, potentially saving the University of Minnesota $3 million per year in energy costs with no negative impact on the environment.

Greg Archer (University Health and Safety), recognized for his contributions to the oat hull biomass fuel project at the University of Minnesota, offering potential savings of $3 million per year in energy costs with no negative impact on the environment. Without his permitting expertise and scientific knowledge this innovative project would not have been possible.

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OCTOBER 2002

Mannix Clark for being a positive and optimistic role model for Housing and Residential Life during his service as Interim Director. Recognized by co-workers as a caring, dedicated leader with high integrity who always portrays a "can-do" attitude.

Donald A. Hau for being a consummate professional. Recognized by co-workers and the University of Minnesota Administration for his wisdom, forthright and fair approach to his work, and for successfully delivering hundreds of design and construction projects, valued in excess of $100 million to the University community since 1987.

Mike Marotteck for his initiative, creativity, innovation and teamwork in the successful completion of numerous projects to continuously improve the Facilities Management payroll systems and processes.

Almaz Ferissa who was recognized by customers for her attention to detail and her commitment to making her areas of campus shine every day. A superior performer who models the values of service, integrity, quality and communication.

Ann Durushia for being recognized both by her co-workers and by the Facilities Management Administration for playing an integral role in the successful Mech I, II, III project. A superior performer who is always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done with a friendly and positive attitude.

Karen Boberg for being recognized by her co-workers and customers for her outstanding customer service as manager of Smith Copies on campus. An extraordinary example of a "service conscious" attitude, she always goes the extra mile to deliver great service.

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FEBRUARY 2002

Auxiliary Services & University Housing & Dining Services for the spirit of departmental cooperation on the highly successful consolidation of UHDS and Auxiliary Services financial and computer systems.

Theresa Robinson for her nearly 20 years of service to the University and for leading the highest participation rate in the 2001 Community Fund Drive.

Eric Kruse for more than 10 years of devoted leadership and for his legacy in leading the successful completion of more than 30 major construction projects.

Greg Casura and Calvin Cole of Environmental Health and Safety for their well-coordinated response to the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum fire in July 2001. Their prompt, efficient, and intelligent response minimized future damage or liability to the Arboretum and the University.

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JUNE 2001

Printing Services, Auxiliary Services IS, Addressing and Mailing and Campus Mail for their combined work providing check printing for the University community.

Chief of Staff Phil McDonald for his work organizing the Dalai Lama.

FM Director of Finance, Accounting, Purchasing and Information Services Cheryl Coryea for her contributions to the organization.

Interim Associate Vice President of FM Pam Beader for her leadership of University construction.

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FEBRUARY 2001

DEHS Director Fay Thompson & University Police Captain Steve Johnson were recognized for their individual contributions and for going above and beyond the call of duty.

Facilities Management Landcare for their snow removal efforts this winter.

Housing and Residential Life for providing an outstanding learning environment.

University Bookstores for their success in promoting and implementing on-line ordering of textbooks. The University Services Forum focused on communications and included information on communicating difficult messages and customer service communication.

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JUNE 2000

Parking and Transportation Services for their work in promoting alternative forms of transportation, particularly the Dinkytown Bikeway Connection and the U-Pass program.

FM Waste Management for dealing with the 11.3 tons of stuff collected during the University Services Spring Fever.

Campus Mail for keeping the mail running smoothly during the relocation of more than 110 university units the past two years.

The Office of Equipment Services for their management of the employee discount program.

Judson Freed of Emergency Management for his work on University-wide Y2K preparations.

Mark Cox of Campus Health and Safety for his outstanding teamwork within University Services.

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NOVEMBER 1999

Department of Environmental Health & Safety for their Thermometer Exchange Program (Andy Phelan accepted the award).

Printing Services for the Implementation of their Business Turnaround Initiative (Diane Gregory accepted the award).

Facilities Management Landcare Operations for their service strategies to create learning laboratory opportunities such as the Sarita Wetland Project (Les Potts accepted the award).

Parking and Transportation Services for their successful Motorist Assistance Program (Bob Baker accepted the award).

U Stores for the development of their consolidated one-stop electronic WEB purchasing system (Mark Teragawa accepted the award).

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