In May, The University of Scranton hosted its Staff Senate End of the Year Awards Ceremony, recognizing the contributions and commitment of several staff senators. The ceremony was highlighted by the inaugural presentation of the President’s Award, given to an individual who “exhibits truly outstanding execution of duties as senators, both in terms of effort expended and importance of outcomes.”

This year’s recipient of the President’s Award was Meg Cullen-Brown, vice president of the Staff Senate. Staff Senate President Mark Murphy called Cullen-Brown a “true leader,” who is “full of energy, works well with others and never ever shies away from volunteering.”
 
The senate also honored individuals who have made significant contributions since its inception four years ago, presenting President’s Awards to Kym Festko (2010), Ronald Skutnick (2009) and Cathy Murphy (2008).

In addition to the President’s Award, Saint Francis Xavier Leadership Awards and certificates of appreciation were also conferred.

The Xavier Leadership Award is bestowed on senators who have served in a leadership position since the senate’s last awards ceremony. Cathy Mascelli, Jo-Ann Stavisky, Margaret Hynosky and Tammi Cherra were recognized for their contributions in 2010-11.

Ray Gaylets, Janice Winslow, Megan Davitt and Joe Wetherell were also honored at the ceremony, receiving Xavier Leadership Awards, as well as certificates of appreciation.

Senators presented with the Xavier Leadership Award for the first time receive the St. Xavier Bell, a fitting keepsake given their commitment and hard work. As noted on the citation for the award, “Just as St. Francis Xavier, a founder of the Jesuit order, went through the streets ringing a little bell inviting children to hear the word of God, you too have led the way in making it possible for other staff members to become more involved in the mission of The University of Scranton.”

Among the individuals who received certifications of appreciation, honoring individuals who have served as senators were: Susie McCrea, Pauline Palko, Luke Schofield, Jason Wimmer, Glen Pace, Donna Rupp, Diane Jachimowicz, Chuck Costello, Bob Keegan, Bobby Davis, Anne Marie Stamford, Mary Rafter, Regina Bennett and Tom Cawley.

Pat Leahy, Ed.D., executive vice president at The University of Scranton, presented the awards on behalf of the University. At the conclusion of the awards, Murphy offered closing remarks.

Barbara Eagen, Diane Lang, Lisa Bealla and Wetherell, chairperson of the Staff Senate Awards and Recognition Committee, were commended for their planning to made the ceremony possible.

To view photographs of the awards ceremony, click here.

This year’s Staff Senate End of the Year Awards Ceremony at The University of Scranton was highlighted by the inaugural presentation of the President’s Awards. Pictured, from left, are Pat Leahy, Ed.D., executive vice president, Patricia Day, vice president for human resources, President’s Award recipients Ronald Skutnick, Kym Fetsko, Meg Cullen-Brown and Cathy Murphy, as well as Mark Murphy, president of the Staff Senate.