Garret Huff, Department of Microbiology, was nominated by lecturers Jessica Pyle and Haley Dylewski. Both described ways that Huff goes above and beyond his role managing laboratory spaces, helping to develop curricula and thoughtfully engaging undergraduates in independent study projects.

Nanette Rodgers, Department of Africana Studies, is retiring in June 2025 after more than 30 years of experience and service to UT. She was nominated for her diligent work ethic in multiple departments, including as an accounting specialist in the Division of Biology. Rodgers made it a focus of her career to help students grow at the university, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and learn to network and meet new people. She continued her own professional growth by completing the 2021–2022 UConnect Leadership Program.

Le Anna Jacobson, Department of Theatre, was nominated by Phyllis Belanger of the Clarence Brown Theater, who said that Jacobson makes everyone’s work easier with her attention to detail, unwavering kindness, and willingness to help. Her ability to explain complex matters with consideration and compassion is truly remarkable, and she was especially helpful during the transition to the DASH system.

Jaydeep Kolape, with the Advanced Imaging and Microscopy Center, was nominated by microbiology PhD candidate Troy Getty, who cited Kolape’s expertise in microscopy and generosity in sharing his knowledge and expertise with the many student researchers who use the center. Kolape explains complex concepts in ways that help students quickly and correctly understand them. In addition to his amazing help with technical support, Kolape is known for making everyone feel welcome at the lab.

Elysia Mann, School of Art, was nominated by School of Art Director Christopher McNulty and by art faculty members J. Leigh Garcia, Althea Murphy-Price, and Koichi Yamamoto. Mann works closely with faculty to provide broad technical instruction, demonstrations, and instructional support in her role as the 2D-area teaching lab technician. She also manages the UT Letterpress Studio, which was completely revamped in 2024. Mann is known as hard working, proactive, strategically frugal, and always excited to share her expertise with students.

Department of Geography and Sustainability staff members Claire Jones, Tim Kane, Alex Logan, and Pamela Sharpe were nominated by Assistant Professor Nikki Luke, for their instrumental support for the department and for Interim Department Head Ron Kalafsky. Notably, they helped to navigate a series of accidents in the Burchfiel Geography Building, including two floods and the aftermath of a car crashing into the front of the building. All of this was managed during the DASH transition and while addressing changes in federal research policies. These geography team members are also warm and encouraging colleagues who listen to faculty and students, share their personal triumphs, and create a sense of community in the department.

Department of Mathematics staff members Pam Armentrout, Karen Burnett, Nicole Crombie, Rosario Dow, Tina Murr, and Ben Walker were nominated by Department Head Xiaobing Feng to recognize their outstanding contributions when the department hosted the Annual Meeting of the Southeastern Section of the Mathematical Association of America in March of 2024. They worked closely with faculty members on assisting with registration, lodging, space, refreshments, the program, and technology support, helping ensure a successful meeting for more than 600 attendees, showing visitors the true meaning of the Volunteer Spirit.

Ame Houston, Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, was nominated by Associate Department Head Brad Binder and Business Manager LaShel Stevens. Binder cited Houston’s extreme efficiency and her ability to learn new tasks quickly and fill new roles to help run our department. Stevens noted that Houston has stepped up to support areas affected by staff shortages, with a range of duties from managing the equipment inventory to assisting faculty in updating their web pages.

Shaun Vavra, demonstration associate with the Department of Physics and Astronomy, was nominated by Department Head Adrian Del Maestro, who said Vavra stepped into this recently created position with great initiative and success. Vavra re-elevated the role of classroom demonstrations and worked with the department’s machine and electronics shops to improve old and outdated demonstrations and design and build new ones. Throughout all his responsibilities, Vavra remains helpful and eager to assist in any circumstance.