Department of Mathematics faculty, staff and graduate students joined Chancellor Lori Bruce and Interim Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Matt Matthews for the presentation of Deborah Barr’s Moc’s Golden Feather Award. Photo by Angela Foster.
Deborah Barr from the Department of Mathematics and Ted Ross from the Department of Art are the newest recipients of the Moc’s Golden Feather Award.
Presented by the Office of Human Resources, the Moc’s Golden Feather Award honors staff members who go above and beyond to make UTC a great place to work and learn. Recipients are nominated by colleagues, students and campus partners for their service, leadership and impact across the University.
Each recipient receives a $1,000 monetary award, a $100 UTC Bookstore credit, eight hours of leave and recognition at a future UTC athletic event—along with additional tickets for friends and family.
Interim Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Matt Matthews and Chancellor Lori Bruce made a surprise visit to the Department of Mathematics to present Deborah Barr with the Moc’s Golden Feather Award.
Deborah Barr: Creating connection in mathematics
Deborah Barr, an administrative specialist in the Department of Mathematics, was recognized for her steady leadership and as a central point of connection for students, faculty and visitors. She was nominated by Senior Lecturer and Undergraduate Studies Coordinator Angelique Ramnarine.
She learned of her Moc’s Golden Feather Award when she received a surprise visit from Chancellor Lori Bruce and Interim Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Matt Matthews, along with more than 20 Department of Mathematics faculty, staff and graduate students.
In her role, Barr manages complex systems, mentors student staff and supports a wide range of academic and outreach efforts. She also contributes to student life through involvement with the Math Club and outreach activities, helping extend the department’s presence beyond the classroom.
Dr. Chris Cox, head of the Department of Mathematics, said graduate students call Barr “Mother Deborah” or “Auntie Deborah.”
“That’s who she is,” Cox said. “She’s a mother hen for all our students and takes just as good care of the faculty as well.”
Cox said Barr is “very much appreciated in the department and goes above and beyond what anybody in her position would do. Her master’s degree in mathematics education also brings an educator’s perspective to her work.”
Chancellor Lori Bruce presents Ted Ross, facilities manager in UTC’s Department of Art, with a Moc’s Golden Feather Award recognizing his problem-solving, adaptability and care for students and faculty.
Ted Ross: Keeping art spaces moving forward
Ted Ross, facilities manager in the Department of Art, was honored for his problem-solving, adaptability, and care for students and faculty.
During a period of transition within the department, he took on expanded responsibilities, helped implement a new studio lottery system and developed cost-saving solutions for storage and facilities needs. He also played a key role in responding to unexpected facility challenges, including relocating artwork and maintaining continuity for students and faculty.
Colleagues note that his work behind the scenes helps ensure that creative spaces remain functional, accessible and supportive of student success.
Ross said the recognition from his department head, UC Foundation Professor Katie Hargrave, was especially meaningful.
“It means a lot to be considered by my department head,” he said. “I think we carry on a lot of responsibilities in the department, and it’s nice to kind of see somebody speak up to say they see you. So I appreciate that.”
About the award
The Moc’s Golden Feather Award highlights the impact of staff members in supporting students, colleagues and the broader University community.
To learn more about the award and to submit a nomination, faculty, staff, students and community partners are encouraged to visit the Moc’s Golden Feather Award webpage.
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