U Make a Difference Award

Gillian Ayers is a Teaching and Learning Analyst for the Haskayne School of Business — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

For more than three years at UCalgary, Gillian has worked on initiatives fostering community practice around teaching that have cultivated a notable increase at teaching and learning events. She has demonstrated her commitment to improving herself, her work and her unit on a regular basis. She is highly trustworthy and a passionate member of the UCalgary community who is dedicated to making a positive difference wherever she goes.

Thank you Gillian!

Karen Barron is an Administrative Officer (Graduate) in the Department of Biological Sciences in the Faculty of Science — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Karen — an outstanding professional in her field — has a reputation for being an enthusiastic colleague who is always willing to help and go beyond the scope of her work to support others. With a decade of experience in Biological Sciences, she has a deep understanding of the field and graduate students. She always finds ways to make her department a happy, healthy place for everyone — students, staff and faculty.

Thank you Karen!

Andrea Berbic is an Office Administrator for the Office of Diversity, Equity and Protected Disclosure — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

Andrea showcases the values and mission of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Protected Disclosure in all the work she does at the university. When the office hosted Diversity Days in January 2018, Andrea played a pivotal role in coordinating the free, three-day event. Her grace, diplomacy and energy go far beyond her job description, and are second to none.\

Thank you Andrea!

Jennifer Christiaens is a Consultant, Human Resources — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

As a participant in the UAdvance program and co-host of Sustainability workshops, Jennifer has cultivated and inclusive, curiosity-driven and respectful approach to her work on campus. She consistently promotes engagement, personal learning and character building. Her sensitivity to the unique needs of individuals makes her an invaluable part of her team and the university.

Thank you Jennifer!

Siv Clayton is a Production Manager in Marketing with University Relations — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

In any department, unit or faculty on campus, creativity and passion are the cornerstones of success — cornerstones that Siv uses every day in her work and her interactions. Her ability to identify areas of improvement and take on solutions with grace makes her an indispensable part of the Marketing team. Never afraid to put in extra hours to finish a project or help out a colleague, her collaborative and creative approach makes her the ultimate problem-solver.

Thank you Siv!

Lisa Colangeli is the Manager of Clinical Teaching Technicians in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

In addition to excelling in her position as a unit manager, Lisa Colangeli is known for volunteering her spare time to projects within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. For two years, Lisa has helped setup, run and clean up after Pet Health Clinics using her own time and her own resources. Her positive attitude and infectious energy light up any room she’s in, and her generous spirit has actively contributed to the ongoing success of programs all over the faculty.

Thank you Lisa!

Jill de Grood is the Director of W21C in the Cumming School of Medicine — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

In five years as a respected leader of a young and dynamic team, Jill has made an invaluable impact in the Department of Medicine. Her approach to innovation, team culture and mentorship fosters an environment of collaboration, creativity and inclusivity. Jill has proven she is a tremendous ambassador to the university, tenaciously representing UCalgary at the provincial level to both the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Economic Diversification and Trade.

Thank you Jill!

Paige Deitsch is a Technician at the Schulich School of Engineering — she was twice nominated in two categories: the Positive Work Environment and Community category and the Innovation and Curiosity category.

Since 1999, Paige has been an integral part of the University of Calgary, consistently displaying her amazing level of commitment and leadership to her colleagues and her students. She successfully combines her strong background in chemistry, rich industrial experience in chemical engineering with a passion for working with people — students especially. In addition, her focus on a healthy work-life balance encourages excellence and self-care.

Thank you Paige!

Kevin Gardener is a Business Development Leader with Annual Giving in Development and Alumni Engagement — he was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Kevin has routinely proven his ability to build great, successful partnerships and relationships though his role with corporate partners. His pride and engagement in UCalgary and his team is evident through his consistent volunteerism with UCalgary Alumni — he even enthusiastically donned a Santa suit and skates. Kevin’s inspirational demeanor, coupled with his eagerness to help others, positively impacts the UCalgary community.

Thank you Kevin!

Tanna Giroux is an Administrator in the Administrative Services Department in the Cumming School of Medicine — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Inspiring excellence in everything she does is Tanna’s standard. She consistently creates a positive environment of recognition as a member of the Recognition Committee in the Cumming School of Medicine. Her resourcefulness, professionalism and focus foster a culture of. Tanna strives for the highest level of success for herself, her team and her faculty.

Thank you Tanna!

Brittney Gramlich is a Graduate Program Administrator for the Clinical Psychology Graduate Program and Psychology Graduate Program — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Responsible for administrating multiple aspects of training for up to 100 graduate students at time, Brittney is known as an outstanding professional, mentor, leader and colleague — serving as a cheerful and enthusiastic model for others. Always going above and beyond her job description to support others in their endeavors, she practices transparent and open communication in all she does.

Thank you Brittney!

Robin Hawes is a Graduate Program Officer with the Faculty of Graduate Studies — he was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

Always ready to help, Robin is an integral part of his team in the Faculty of Graduate Studies. He builds and maintains collaborative relationships with his calm, humble and helpful spirit with both colleagues and students alike. He is seen by his peers as the man with all the answers, a resource-rich person who is happy to answer any query and solve any conundrum.

Thank you Robin!

Natalia Jezierska is an Administrator (Associate Deans, Certificates and Chairs) in the Faculty of Environmental Design — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

In addition to managing a heavy workload overseeing professional programs, certificates and chairs, Natalia is committed to delivering the highest calibre of service to all who require it. An unfailing professional, she has made herself invaluable through her courtesy, knowledge and, of course, her amiable sense of humour.

Thank you Natalia!

Ivan Kabwama is a Finance Officer with Community Engagement: Local and Global at the Cumming School of Medicine — he was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

To his colleagues, Ivan is the quiet engine that keeps multimillion dollar projects and operating budgets running smoothly, transparently and efficiently. He builds beneficial relationships with everyone he encounters and gives 100 per cent to every project, big or small, simple or complex.

Thank you Ivan!

Angela Krawetz is the Director of Core Facilities and Strategic Projects for the Office of the Associate Dean Research in the Cumming School of Medicine — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

In a role that requires extensive collaboration and communication with others, Angela consistently offers her strong technical and leadership abilities to any project that comes her way. With an unwavering commitment to her complex portfolio, Angela is a reliable and flexible colleague to everyone on her team.

thank you Angela!

Nadia Maarouf is a PhD Candidate and President of the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Student Association with Cardiac Sciences — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Nadia is known for sharing her time and energy with her students and colleagues. Demonstrating exemplary leadership, she serves on more than seven committees at UCalgary, including the Departmental Student Association, the Faculty Promotion and Tenure Committee, the Department of Physiology and Pharmacological Education Committee, the Cumming School of Medicine Annual Symposium Committee and more.

Thank you Nadia!

Sarah McGinnis is the Manager of Communication and Marketing at the Schulich School of Engineering — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

Through her leadership of a team of four, Sarah consistently demonstrates her character, leadership ability and reliability. She was an integral part of the Schulich leadership team during the transition to, and inauguration of, the new engineering building. Sarah regularly provides her expertise and vision to strategic planning and recruitment.

Thank you Sarah!

Rob McNeil is a Zone Manager for Client Technology Services in Information Technologies — he was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

In his role providing Information Technology services in the Faculties of Arts and Kinesiology, Rob stands out because of his passion to deliver the best possible customer service — driving a culture of excellence in his team. The consummate team player, Rob is known for approaching challenges head on and being a proactive problem solver.

Thank you Rob!

Jennifer Parsons is an Academic Development Specialist, International with the Student Success Centre — she was nominated in the Innovation and Curiosity category.

In addition to being an experienced lecturer and instructor, Jennifer’s passion for student learning, experience and success is well known. She strives to create a non-judgmental environment of learning and development that allows international students to put their best foot forward. She applies her insight, wisdom and understanding to all students.

Thank you Jennifer!

Sarah Roberts is the Director of Institutional Events in University Relations — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Empowering others can be a difficult feat, but Sarah consistently takes it upon herself to help others succeed within their own roles, and as a team. She pushes boundaries, champions others and she does it all with a fun-loving attitude. She consistently provides a positive and exciting work environment that motivates others to do their best.

Thank you Sarah!

Mike Siewert is an IT Technician with the Faculty of Science — he was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Mike has a 30-year record of commitment, passion and generosity at the University of Calgary. With good humour and strong skills, he is an amazing problem solver with unending patience, strong leadership skills and a magnanimous spirit. This computer genius is an active volunteer and a credit to the UCalgary community.

Thank you Mike!

Chrissy Thatcher is a Project Administrator with the Department of Civil Engineering — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

It’s an odd day that Chrissy’s team catches her in a less-than pleasant mood, even when things get difficult. Her team regularly seeks her out to solve complex issues, support difficult projects or help with last-minute details. Her positive, can-do attitude coupled with her commitment to quality and timely work makes her an indispensable team member.

Thank you Chrissy!

Andrea Torraville is an MBA Career Consultant at the Haskayne School of Business — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

Andrea’s catch phrase, “it takes teamwork to make dream work,” demonstrates her all-around commitment to supporting and recognizing her colleagues. Her dedication to students and their experience on campus is unparalleled, as she always goes the extra mile to ensure their success and wellness. In addition the outstanding work she does in her role, she offers incredible energy and creativity as a member of her faculty’s Employee Engagement committee.

Thank you Andrea!

Stephanie Warner is a PhD Career Development Specialist in Career Services — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

Always going above and beyond for her students and her team, Stephanie is a well-known collaborator and positive influence on her team in Career Services. Her excellent communication skills and generosity of time make her an asset to her students, her colleagues and anyone who has had the benefit of experiencing her high-quality service.

Thank you Stephanie!

Caroline Watson is an Operational Project Lead with Web Services in IT — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

Despite the fact Caroline’s workload in web services has seen a marked increase over the last few years, she is ever a team player, dedicated to excellence and effective collaboration. She inspires her team with her open, cooperative nature — always bringing out everyone’s best throughout any planning and execution process.

Thank you Caroline!

Justine Wheeler is the Director of the Business Library for Libraries and Cultural Services — she was twice nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Justine is not only dedicated to her team’s wellness and effectiveness, but she is also a community builder on campus. In addition to her role as Director for the Business Library, she helped develop a community knitting group called Knit-A-Long. Justine is an amazing resource for her team, the library, and for the UCalgary community — ensuring everyone has what they need to succeed.

Thank you Justine!

Jeanne Williams is a Research Associate for the Cumming School of Medicine and Community Health Sciences — she was nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category.

Known as a consistent, positive presence in the Research Data Centre, Jeanne is a master at cultivating comfort and support in the sometimes isolating and overwhelming field of research. Ever a welcoming presence, Jeanne effortlessly navigates the complexities of research and its rules so that others can benefit from knowledge. Jeanne’s impact is evidenced by the mentions she has earned in the dedications and acknowledgements sections of many student dissertations and theses.

Thank you Jeanne!

Melissa Wrubleski is an Administrative Assistant in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the Faculty of Science — she was nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category.

Melissa has been instrumental in establishing and expanding the very successful postdoctoral program in her department. The respect she shows others along with her natural willingness to go above and beyond make her a central player on her team. No problem is too big or too small for her absolute attention and dedication to finding a solution.

Thank you Melissa!

Nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category

The Biomedical Engineering Support team has been essential to the success and smooth operation of training and research in their faculty. Often acting as the first point of contact for students, faculty and staff, this group is consistently seen as welcoming, helpful and collaborative by the community they serve. In addition to executing complex and meticulous tasks, this group ensures that their program’s students, researchers and collaborators are interconnected in a positive way.

Thank you!

Nominees:

• Emily Bishop, BME Research Coordinator with Biomedical Engineering Calgary
• Catherine Barrett, Administrative Coordinator, Schulich School of Engineering and Centre for Bioengineering Research & Education
• Lisa Mayer, BME Graduate Program Coordinator in the Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program
• Elizabeth Mullaney, BME Graduate Program Administration in the Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program

Nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category

Collaborative partnerships are at the centre of this team’s success. With strong industry connections that encompass a healthy mix of diverse professionals (including many UCalgary alumni), they have worked hard to build and maintain the university’s strong reputation in the Calgary community. This team is known for their volunteerism, both internally and externally. Whether it’s holding fundraisers for community charities or encouraging others to get involved in things they care about, this team is dedicated to the philosophy of giving back to your community.

Thank you!

Nominees:

• Kimberley Dart, Haskayne Career Centre Manager
• Andrea Torraville, Haskayne Career Centre MBA Career Consultant
• Cheryl Hooper, Haskayne Career Centre MBA Career Consultant
• Susan Judd, Haskayne Career Centre Operations Coordinator
• Susan Bassude, Haskayne Career Centre Career Advisor (Undergrad)
• Danielle Wolf, Haskayne Career Centre Career Advisor (Undergrad)
• Tania Jamault, Haskayne Career Centre Career Advisor (Undergrad)   
• David Rudanec, Haskayne Career Centre Career Advisor (Undergrad)

Nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category and the Innovation and Curiosity category

The IT Support Centre Team has gone through many process changes in the last year. They successfully implemented a Live Chat system, adopted the PureCloud industry-standard phone system and integrated the ServiceNow ticketing system — all to improve customer service for the entire university community. Seeing these projects through required diligence, support, collaboration and teamwork.

Thank you!

Nominees:

• Aymara Clarke, Information Technologies Technical Support Analyst
• Danielle Ly, Information Technologies Technical Support Analyst
• Kyle Kajorinne, Information Technologies Technical Support Analyst
• Paige Hong, Information Technologies Technical Support Analyst
• Sam Chan, Information Technologies Technical Support Analyst
• Arbaz Khawaja, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Arsalan Khawaja, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Aunimikh Ahmed, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Brian Gilbert, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Christopher Smith, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Edouard Tourani, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Elias Clarke, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Heather Gilbert, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Horace Law, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Jamin Baik, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Mike Heaney, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Mike Xun, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Mykayla Bergie, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Nikolaas Lam, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Safwan Hossain, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Sean Lewis, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Sallene Wong, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Terry Wu, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst
• Zoe Fenrick, Information Technologies Customer Support Analyst

Nominated in the Positive Work Environment and Community category

Web Services is a small, effective team working to make an impact across the university. The team collaborates with countless groups to secure the university’s ability to communicate locally and around the world. Despite competing needs and the ever-evolving digital environment in which they work, the Web Services Team has succeeded in making timely and positive changes within the university and its many departments and units. The team is driven by their commitment to customer service and admired for their patience and perseverance. 

Thank you!

Nominees:

• Deb Huartson, Service Lead
• Caroline Watson, Operational Project Lead
• Jesse Patching, Web Development Lead
• Dan Fitzsimmons, Sr. Enterprise Web Content Management Specialist
• Chris Graham, Sr. Web Developer
• Nicole Laursen, Service Analyst
• Keanu Yip, Service Specialist
• Davis Barrett, Service Specialist
• Kieran Wood, Service Specialist

Nominated in the Collaboration and Communications category

The Medical School Team is known for excellence in research and training university medical students. They have been instrumental in the university’s humanitarian efforts in Gyana, where they help provide year-round training programs, modern equipment and medications to clinics and medical practitioners. They actively apply the skills and knowledge they develop through scholarly research to help people, and they share the wisdom of experience through collaborative and engaging relationships with UCalgary students.

Thank you!

Nominees: 

• Dr. Debra Isaac, Clinical Professor of Medicine
• Dr. Wayne Warnica, Professor of Medicine, Medical Director of the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at the Foothills Hospital