Several UA employees were honored for their outstanding work during the 2011 Staff Awards for Excellence ceremony. The Staff Awards for Excellence, presented annually by the UA Staff Advisory Council, the Appointed Professionals Advisory Council, President Robert N. Shelton and the President's Cabinet, are designed to recognize employees who go above and beyond the call of duty in their jobs, whether it's by putting in extra hours, initiating innovative programs or always arriving at the office with a smile.
"Over the past couple of years, these awards have become especially meaningful to the recipients," said Eddie Gomez, president of the Staff Advisory Council. "Not only are they being acknowledged for their professional talents, they are being acknowledged for their resiliency and steadfastness in the face of unprecedented fiscal challenge." Awards are given in four categories, recognizing individual employees, teams and departments on campus.
Susana Ruiz, administrative associate in the department of German studies, has been the department's sole staff member for the past two years because of budget cuts. Nominator Barbara Kosta, head of German studies, says it would be an understatement to say she's relied on Ruiz to help run the department. Ruiz is now the point person for all graduate programs in the recently formed School of International Languages, Literatures and Culture. Bringing dedication, commitment and kindness to her position, she is known for her creative problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
The Department of German Studies expresses its congratulations and gratitude for Susana's expectional work.