UTSA announces opening date, improved process for University Excellence Awards nominations

DECEMBER 18, 2023 — UTSA will kick off the nomination process for the 2024 University Excellence Staff Awards on Monday, January 8. Those looking to honor someone who has been working diligently behind the scenes have until Friday, February 2, to submit their nominations.

This year, there is a new look and feel to the staff nomination form. Based on feedback, the form has been streamlined to include question fields that eliminate the need to submit a formal nomination letter. This will provide a more consistent and efficient submission as well as review process.

Each spring, the University Excellence Awards program honors the achievements of the Roadrunner faculty and staff who make UTSA an outstanding place to work.

The University Excellence Award winners will be announced at UTSA’s ceremony in April.

Below is information about this year’s staff awards, including the cash prize for each:

• The Rising Star Award($1,000 prize): Recognizes a new employee who has made significant contributions throughout the year to their area or the university community.
• The Leadership Award($1,000 prize): Recognizes someone who has promoted departmental and university mission and goals through job performance.
• The Team Spirit Award($1,000 prize): Recognizes those who foster collaboration, communication and cooperation among colleagues internal or external to their departments. 

• The Extra Mile Award($1,000 prize): Recognizes an employee who goes above and beyond to contribute to the success of UTSA through his or her outstanding work contributions. 

---

---

• The Order of the Roadrunner Award ($1,000 prize): Recognizes exemplary service and commitment to the university. It is the highest honor a UTSA staff member can receive. 
• The Richard S. Howe Staff Excellence in Service to Undergraduate Students Award (up to $2,000 prize): Recognizes staff members for their outstanding commitment to undergraduates. It is named in honor of longtime UTSA engineering professor Richard S. Howe.

— Drew Vincent

---

---