On November 8, close to 150 people gathered in McNally Auditorium to celebrate colleagues marking work anniversaries at Saint Mary’s, and to recognize some being honoured with special awards.
An annual tradition at the university, the event is organized by People and Culture and the President’s Office as a way to say thanks, and to provide an opportunity to pause and connect with colleagues from across campus.
President Summerby-Murray opened the event, noting his appreciation for the dedication of faculty and staff who have chosen to work at Saint Mary’s. “Your dedication to the Saint Mary’s is not something that is taken for granted; it is appreciated and valued, and today, celebrated,” he said. “I truly believe your commitment makes a distinct positive impact on our students and community.”
A total of 79 faculty and staff were recognized for service milestones of 10, 25 and 35 years of service, including part-time faculty and instructors with 15 years of affiliation with the university. (You can view the full list of recipients in the digital program.)
Two remarkable milestones were also applauded at the event: Dr. Colin Dodds (SSB), who has been with Saint Mary’s for 40 years, and Joan Whitney (Arts) who is celebrating 50 years with us!
In addition to service awards, the winners of the President’s Awards for Exemplary Service were also announced. These prestigious awards recognize employees who have demonstrated outstanding service and/or who have made significant contributions to the university community beyond that normally expected for their positions.
President Summerby-Murray offered his congratulations to the winners: Dr. Elissa Asp, English Language and Literature; Sarah MacLean of Enrolment Services; Miyuki Arai, Studio for Teaching and Learning, and to Terri Winchcombe, Library, who received an Honourable Mention.
The event closed with the presentation of the new Santamarian Awards. These awards were established to recognize outstanding contributions of faculty and staff to the workplace culture of Saint Mary’s University, and are intended to reflect the university values found in the Strategic Plan. Mark Moffett, Associate Vice-President, People & Culture, introduced the category and presented the awards.
Cheryl Newman of EIT (nominated not once, but twice!) was the winner of the Individual Award. The Honourable Mention went to Rachelle Boudreau with External Affairs.
The Team Award went to members of the Residence Office team, with Athletics & Recreation receiving the Honourable Mention.
Congratulations to all those who were recognized at the event!
View the event photo gallery and see all recipients in the digital program.
