Recognizing University of Tennessee at Chattanooga personnel who have gone above and beyond to assist fellow employees, faculty and students is simple when there are so many people to consider.
But with so many Mocs helping Mocs, how do you choose who to honor?
Every month, campus staff and faculty are asked, “Has a UTC employee gone the extra mile to help you or offered outstanding service to others? Is there someone who continues to smile and have a positive attitude even when the workload is heavy?
“If you know just the person who fits this description, please take the time to acknowledge their hard work and dedication by nominating him/her for the Chancellor’s Blue Ribbon Award.”
A committee appointed by Chancellor Steven Angle chooses a monthly Blue Ribbon Award winner from the nominations. Award recipients receive a plaque, a monetary award and personal congratulations from the chancellor.
In pre-pandemic times, plaque presentations occurred during semi-annual award luncheons. Since these days are far from typical, the most recent honorees for the second half of 2021 will be celebrated during a virtual recognition program on Jan. 25.
Award winners merit fanfare. Here is a look at the six Blue Ribbon Award recipients for July through December 2021:
July: Sharon Hardy, lab specialist in the Department of Chemistry and Physics
Sharon Hardy, who retired from UTC last summer, was nominated by faculty members Gretchen Potts, Keenan Dungey, John Lee and Jisook Kim. “Sharon is a vital member of the Department of Chemistry and Physics. She is a personable, approachable colleague who is willing to assist at any time. She is supportive and nurturing to our students, encouraging them to continue when they struggle with difficult courses. She will be missed by all in the department when she retires next month.”
August: Sarah Canatsey, coordinator/instructional developer in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business
Sarah Canatsey was nominated by Lisa Burke-Smalley and Richard X. Zhang. “During the past two years, Sarah has uncovered innovative teaching technologies, methodologies and Canvas tips/tools that help faculty get up to speed quickly and ultimately better serve our students,” Burke-Smalley wrote. “She has very creative ideas and workarounds when problems seem insurmountable in the ‘heat of the stressful moment,’ which is so appreciated.”
September: Christy Waldrep, administrative support assistant in the College of Engineering and Computer Science
Christy Waldrep was nominated by six individuals coming from multiple departments across campus. Testimonials from her many supporters included: “Christy has a dedication and commitment that I have not seen in many years. She is unparalleled in her role … and her work with CECS exceeds all expectations. For five months, she acted as both the dean’s admin and the chief of staff graciously and to perfection.”
October: Amber Dennison, senior counselor in the Counseling Center
Amber Dennison was nominated by five individuals who all recognized the impact of her efforts. “Amber is a tireless champion of students’ mental health,” one wrote. “She routinely carries a larger caseload than the rest of her colleagues, yet she consistently goes above and beyond to provide students with the highest quality care.”
November: Hannah Turcotte, coordinator for Student and Family Engagement
Hannah Turcotte was nominated by Elena-Grace Anderson, assistant director for Fraternity and Sorority Life, and Laura Cagle, director of University Events. “Hannah is an encourager, a hard worker, a team player and a dedicated servant leader. Settling for mediocrity is not an option for Hannah,” they wrote in the nomination letter. “She takes pride in the services and programs that her office and the University as a whole offer to students.”
December: Chris Beavers, accounting specialist II – travel and accounts payable, Accounting Services
Chris Beavers was nominated by Faith Garner, assistant to the assistant vice chancellor for Emergency Services. “Chris is always very helpful when I call, but what sets him apart is his attitude,” Garner said. “He never becomes impatient or annoyed with my questions … he is a lifeline for me and many admins at UTC. He is courteous and very helpful when I call, even when I am the cause of the problem.”
