Staff Recognition Awards

Each year, NLU honors three (3) outstanding staff member for their professional contribution and quality service with special public acknowledgement for their exemplary work. Nominations are reviewed by a voluntary Selection Committee of fellow staff members, and winners will be honored at NLU's Fall Connections.

Eligibility

• Any member of the NLU community can nominate a staff member for advancing the mission and goals of NLU.

• All non-faculty administrative and support staff (below the level of 'Director') are eligible for nomination, including fully remote employees.

• A staff member can be nominated by more than one colleague.

• A staff member can be nominated for more than one award but can only win one award.

• If a fully remote employee or Tampa employee wins an award, they will be flown out to Chicago for Fall Connections. 

• You can submit a nomination for more than one staff member. 

Staff Recognition Awards

Randy Brittman Service Excellence Award 

This dedicated NLU staff member:

• Embodies deep and abiding commitment to the mission of NLU.
• Provides a high-quality student-facing experience/service in their specific unit
• Exemplifies the highest levels of service, setting the example for their peers and a track record of building interdepartmental relationships that lead to continuous improvement.

Over the past year, has demonstrated his or her willingness to fulfill job-related responsibilities and has made a conscious effort at improving his or her area, and the University at large.

Joel Hanshaw Culture Championship Award - NEW 2023

This staff member has made a unique departmental contribution embracing the NLU spirit and has demonstrated track record of building interdepartmental relationships that lead to continuous improvement, including:

• Demonstrating dedication and commitment through active participation in NLU activities and initiatives.
• Encouraging others to participate in culture building activities.
• Creating or contributing to a culture of inclusion at NLU.

Over the past year, this individual has demonstrated his or her willingness to fulfill job-related responsibilities and has made a conscious effort at improving his or her area, and the University at large.

Outstanding Distinction Award - NEW 2023

To distinguish a staff member with five (5) years or more University service who has consistently made a significant positive impact within their department and the university as a whole, fostering the mission of the NLU. In particular:

• Demonstrates a history of committed action towards serving the goals of the University and the success of our students.
• Inspires and empowers others to provide the highest level of service to both students and employees.
• Works to improve their unit at NLU through building efficiencies and systems to benefit all at NLU.  

This award recognizes an exemplary colleague and universally recognized resource and co-worker who provides the highest quality of service to the National Louis University community (faculty, staff, students & alumni).

2023 Award Winners

• Carlos Miranda-Gomez - Randy Brittman Service Award
• Lydia Ramos - Joel Hanshaw Culture Champion Award
• Sarah Kosmin - Outstanding Distinction Award

Winners are awarded with a personalized plaque, their name added to the plaque of all NLU Staff Award winners, and receive a $500 monetary gift. The Outstanding Distinction winner will also receive either a free dinner for two at Kendall Dining Room or $100 to dine out if they are not Chicago-based.