Welcome

It is a pleasure to present the third annual issue of Staff Excellence.

Just a few months ago, I moved into Thompson Hall as the 19th president of the University of New Hampshire. From my very first interactions with the UNH community, I was struck by how warmly I was welcomed. Even people who didn't know who I was - from parking lot attendants, to administrative assistants, to dining hall employees - have been friendly and helpful. This welcoming environment reflects a deep, abiding affection for UNH.

Staff members are the unsung heroes of campus life. Our ability to fulfill our primary teaching, research, and public service missions at a high level of excellence absolutely depends upon the men and women who tend to the needs of our students, keep our physical plant operating, our campus safe, our finance, personnel, and information systems running, and our alumni and friends informed and engaged.

In these pages, you will learn about five of our talented colleagues selected to receive this year’s Presidential Award of Excellence, the highest honor bestowed upon University staff. These awards are presented to those who, nominated by their peers, have demonstrated excellence through outstanding performance and a significant record of dedication to the University community.

Their responsibilities vary widely, but all of this year’s award recipients contribute to making our community stronger, safer, more sustainable, and more inclusive. On this last note, you will also learn about staff members who have been recognized for their contributions to diversity and social justice on campus.

We are all ambassadors for UNH. The subtle and unscripted messages that we communicate each day through our work tell the most powerful stories of all. I am honored to lead this wonderful University, and to call myself a colleague of so many talented and dedicated men and women.

Sincerely,

Mark W. Huddleston
President