Human Resource Services

2002 Superior Accomplishment Award Winners


Learn more about the Superior Accomplishment Award and the nomination process

USPS Clerical and Office Support
Linda Meyers, Senior Clerk, IFAS, Okaloosa County Extension Office

Linda Meyers is dedicated to performing assigned responsibilities well. During an extended departmental vacancy, she provided excellent assistance and the leadership necessary to keep programs running smoothly. In fact, consistently throughout her nominations, she was lauded for going "above and beyond the call of duty." She always goes beyond normal job expectations to perform tasks typically associated with much higher-level positions.

USPS Support Service
Jerry Wenzel, Maintenance Mechanic, IFAS Facilities Planning and Operations

Not only is Jerry Wenzel a conscientious worker, diligently seeing tasks through to completion--he also is exceptional in his genuine concern for efficiency and economy. Throughout his nominations, comments highlighted his vast knowledge of the various aspects of building mechanics and carpentry, and his willingness to share that knowledge with others.

USPS Scientific and Technical
Patricia Lewis, Senior Biological Scientist, College of Veterinary Medicine

Beyond merely assisting in the preparation of materials used for lectures and course outlines, Patricia Lewis has provided instruction to faculty, post-doctorates, graduate students, residents, veterinary students, and undergraduates students. A further testament to her commitment to outstanding performance is the regional and national recognition she has received for lectureship skills.

USPS Administrative and Supervisory
John Thomas, Agricultural Assistant Supervisor, IFAS, Horticultural Sciences

One nominator noted that, in addition to normal supervisory duties, John Thomas also is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a very busy research unit. And on more than one occasion, he has been called upon to design and fabricate some special type of item needed to complete a particular research project. As was noted in one nominator's letter of support, "He can build anything!"

Administrative and Professional
Jodi Gentry, Assistant Director, Division of Human Resources

One letter noted: "When I think of professionals who have made a large impact on the quality and quantity of services provided, who have added significant value to the University and surrounding communities, and who have done so consistently, I can think of no better model than Jodi Gentry." Another supporter stated that, aside from being competent in her field, her personality, vision, and deep commitment to improving UF's workforce puts her out in front of the others.

Faculty Service
Wayne Griffin, Clinical Assistant Professor and Associate Director, University Counseling Center

The area in which Wayne Griffin deserves greatest recognition is crisis intervention and trauma response. His services are constantly in demand, and his willingness to help students, faculty, and staff appears to be limitless. Nationally, he is sought as a consultant for Crisis Response. Locally, he collaborated with the Division of Housing to develop a model using Crisis Intervention Consultants. That team now provides on-site crisis intervention.

Gabor Recognition Awards

Melvina Johnson, Custodial Worker, Physical Plant Division

Melvina Johnson is described as a hard worker whose first priority is customer satisfaction. She is committed to excellence and is always striving to make coworkers shine as well.

Deborah Hall

In addition to her "official" duties, Deborah Hall independently developed databases and other tools that have helped to improve the overall efficiency of the Department of Entomology and Nematology.

Kristy Currier, Program Assistant, J. Wayne Reitz Union


Although Kristy Currier's accomplishments are many, her most significant project was the revamping of the student organization database. This work has served to save the Office of Student Activities time as well as thousands of dollars a year in data entry.

Gale Roser, Senior Secretary, Environmental Health and Safety

For close to ten months, Gale Roser took on many of the activities and tasks typically assigned to a higher-level position--and all of this was done in addition to her regular duties. Furthermore, she demonstrates superior initiative by learning to meet the demands of new challenges within the Biosafety Office of Environmental Health and Safety.

HRH Recognition Award winners receiving $500

Carole Burrowbridge, Learning Specialist, Office for Students with Disabilities

Carole Burrowbridge regularly seeks information on grant opportunities and current issues concerning disabilities and higher education. Additionally, she continues to impress colleagues with consistent high levels of service and initiatives taken on behalf of the Office for Students with Disabilities.

Jim Yousse, Systems Programmer, Department of Psychology

Jim Yousse is described as doing an absolutely first-rate job in all aspects of being a Systems Programmer. He has single-handedly upgraded and maintained the Department of Psychology's complex network of computer servers and systems, and has saved the department thousands of dollars by economizing on computer upgrades.