The Staff Advisory Council and the Quality of Service Council recognized 12 Stetson employees for their contribution to the university in the virtual Employee Recognition Awards ceremony Thursday, Aug. 1.

This year, more than 240 nominations were received, a number that represented a historic milestone for the university as ceremony organizers mentioned it was “the most in Stetson’s history.”

The 2024 winners are:

• The Ultimate Hatter Award went to Kevin Winchell, Director of Community Engagement. Various nominators noted that Winchell “is the embodiment of Stetson University’s mission, a beacon of service and a catalyst for transformative change.” Winchell’s dedication to the Stetson Community “extends beyond the classroom; [he] is a guardian to those in need.” By guiding students and colleagues toward meeting Stetson’s shared goals while abiding by its values, “[his] contributions are immeasurable, and [his] impact is profound.”

• The Be Seen Award went to Elizabeth “Beth” Maycumber, library archivist. Maycumber’s work, “often behind the scenes, embodies professionalism, a positive attitude, creativity and unwavering reliability.” A nominator noted that Maycumber’s efforts “often go unnoticed, but the impact [she] has at Stetson is profound.”

• The Communicator of the Year Award went to Elise Torres, manager of Communications and Tickets at the School of Music. While helping to create engaging and creative posts, Torres “goes above and beyond to ensure all areas of the school are represented, often working behind the scenes to capture and share the school’s many events.”

• The Faculty Partner of the Year Award went to Timothy Peter, DMA, professor of music. A nominator noted that Peter’s kindness “echoes through the halls of Presser Hall.” Not only that, but also his warm personality “is a constant source of comfort and inspiration.”

• The Go Beyond Award went to Annlyn Harvey, Associate Director for Residential Education. Harvey received numerous nominations that noted how she “not only excels in [her] role, but consistently goes above and beyond [her] job description in support of others.”

• The Innovator of the Year Award went to Natalia Da Silva, PhD, Director of the Hand Art Center. In her nomination, it was noted that her “swift adaptation and creative vision has propelled [her] campus locale to new heights while preserving its existing excellence. From interactive events to inclusive community programs, [Da Silva] has redefined what it means to engage with art.”

• The J.E.D.I of the Year Award went to Reed Barkowitz, Hillel Program Director. A nominator noted that Barkowitz’s “exceptional ability to foster meaningful connections and create inclusive events has been a beacon of hope and belonging at Stetson. Their efforts have cultivated a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diversity and encourages joy, even amidst adversity.”

• The Mentor of the Year Award went to Amy Dedes, Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. Dedes’ “profound knowledge and caring nature don’t just make [her] approachable but also an invaluable resource for young professionals seeking guidance.” Working with Dedes, a nominator noted, “has been incredibly inspiring; [she] motivates [us] not only as a boss but also as an individual who genuinely cares about [our] growth.”

• The Problem Solver of the Year Award went to Ricky Coulson, laboratory director and chemical hygiene manager. Coulson was “the linchpin in [his] building’s battle against unforeseen adversity. Amidst this very hairy situation, [his] relentless dedication has been nothing short of heroic.”

• The Team Player of the Year Award went to Liana Natochy, Associate Director of Student Support, Dean of Students Office. Natochy’s “intentional communication and ability to make everyone feel included has fostered a truly collaborative environment.” She is known for being “a student advocate, and [her] empathy and listening skills have been invaluable in supporting students through their individual challenges.”

• The Adapter of the Year Award went to Tracey Vondra, executive assistant to the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Vondra’s “adaptability and dedication have been the glue holding the department together, making [her] the embodiment of the Adapter of the Year,” wrote one nominator.

• The Morale Builder Award went to Julie Holland, Innsbruck Program Coordinator Management and Marketing Departments Administrative Support for the School of Business Administration. Holland’s “eternal positivity and care for others shine through in [her] subtle gestures, like remembering special occasions and offering words of encouragement. [Her] humility and dedication to lifting spirits without seeking recognition are truly inspiring.”

During the awards ceremony, Sara Scarpelli, Director of Community Outreach at the School of Music and co-chair of the Staff Advisory Council, announced the merger of both – the Staff Advisory Council and the Quality of Service Council – into what will become the Staff Council.

“This new structure features specific committees dedicated to the various initiatives each group previously led: Wellness, Staff Recognition and Community Engagement,” she said. “Ultimately, this will strengthen our collective efforts and enable us to continue to make Stetson a great place to work.”