They work in research, in technology, in administration, customs, creative services and international affairs. They have worked for McMaster for between four and forty years.

And now, they all have something in common.

Eleven employees who went above and beyond in their staff roles this past year have received the 2018 President’s Award for Outstanding Service.

The awards, which president and vice-chancellor Patrick Deane presented on May 28, recognize employees’ exceptional service, contributions to the efficiency and effectiveness of university operations, or their impact on the reputation of McMaster.

“This is, for me, a bittersweet occasion,” said President Deane at the ceremony. “It is the last of these ceremonies I will attend. I’ve spent nine years thinking about what is so wonderful about this place – what makes it so successful – and I keep coming back to people. The success of McMaster as an institution hinges on the individuals that make up our university.

“I encourage all members of our community to read today’s program and have a look at the synopsis of each nomination for the inspiring cast of people who have made exceptional contributions to the university and are being recognized today.”

Award recipients are nominated by peers, leaders or partners within the campus community, and nominations are evaluated by an advisory committee appointed by the president. Recipients receive a trophy, a letter of commendation from the President and attend the recognition ceremony.

Typically, nominations open in December and close mid-February.

Read more about this year’s nominees and recipients. View full photo gallery.

Individual Award Recipients

• Greg Atkinson – Manager, Information Technology, Faculty of Science
• John Bentley – Customs and Traffic Officer, Financial Affairs
• Amber Bukata – Manager, Staffing and Administration, Faculty of Engineering
• Lori Dillon – Manager, Research Communications, Office of the Vice President, Research
• Pamela Forsyth – Managing Director, Research Enterprise, Family Medicine
• Pat Fraser – Administrator, Economics
• Laura Jakubczyk Johnson – Administrative Assistant, Office of Interdisciplinary Studies
• Simon Oakley – Creative and Web Development Manager, Media Production Services

Team Award Recipients

Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) Program Administration

• Sarah Hagens & Vanessa Killinger

Special Achievement Award Recipient

• Ni Jadon – Senior Project Manager / International Liaison Officer, Office of International Affairs