Each year, the Faculty of Arts and Science (FAS) marks the end of the year with the Dean’s Awards for Excellence, celebrating standout staff, and faculty members.
This year was no different, despite the pandemic.
“Our faculty has been very adept at moving things online this year,” says dean Pascale Sicotte.
The awards were highlighted virtually in a 54-minute video, featuring winning researchers, and nominators of staff and faculty, as well as congratulatory messages from department Chairs.
“It was very touching to see the work everyone put into this video, making sure their colleagues got the recognition they deserved,” says Sicotte.
“The pandemic has forced us to do things differently, but it hasn’t taken away from the warm relationships we share within the Faculty. This video is proof.”
The awards are split into two sections, each overseen by a different associate dean.
The staff and faculty awards, administered by Jill Didur, associate dean of faculty affairs, are chosen via a committee chaired by Didur. Winners are selected based on submissions sent in by nominators.
‘If felt more important than ever to celebrate the Dean’s Awards when faculty and staff in FAS are working under especially difficult conditions to achieve their research, teaching, and service goals,” says Didur.
“Committee members read so many wonderful letters of recommendation. Trying to decide between so many great candidates was really difficult!”
Winners each receive $500. For faculty members, the prize money goes towards their research, while staff members get gift certificates.
“I am honoured by this award, it means the world to me,” says Matina Skalkogiannis, who won a Service Award for her work as Assistant to the Principal of the School of Irish Studies.
Skalkogiannis says she is grateful to the staff, students and faculty of the School. “Their cherished support makes this extra special to me.”