For the third year in a row, Dean Dennis Reynolds hosted the Hilton College Faculty and Staff Awards Luncheon, held May 3 in the Hilton University of Houston’s Waldorf-Astoria Ballroom. Dean Reynolds took the podium to thank everyone for their work, dedication and achievements throughout the year.

Dean Reynolds first recognized Drs. Priyanko Guchait, Yoon Koh and Chris Taylor for receiving tenure appointments, and Professor Emeritus Karl Titz on his retirement. Then, along with Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs Mary Dawson and Assistant Dean for Research and Graduate Studies Ki-Joon Back, Dean Reynolds proceeded to present the awards.   

This year’s recipients, clockwise from left, are: Valerie Delgado, front office manager at Hilton University of Houston, Jim Wortman Mentorship Award; Dr. Jason Draper, associate professor, Teaching Excellence Award; Sabas DeLeon, lead custodian at Hilton University of Houston, Hotel Staff Excellence Award; Silvia Vera, financial coordinator, College Staff Excellence Award; Dr. Nathan Jarvis, instructional assistant professor in San Antonio, Service Excellence Award; Dr. Agnes DeFranco, professor and Conrad N. Hilton Distinguished Chair, Stephen Rushmore/HVS Faculty Research Award; and Dr. Juan Madera, associate professor, Donald Greenaway Teaching Excellence Award.

The Wortman award holds extra meaning for the honoree because recipients are nominated by students. This award pays tribute to the late beloved gaming professor whose 18-year tenure at the College inspired hundreds of students. The Greenaway award honors the late first associate dean of the College (1969-1976), who was a phenomenal teacher and set the bar high for those who followed.

All awardees received an engraved clock and a $1,000 honorarium. In addition, staff winners received free parking for a year. A special shout out also goes to Dean’s Assistant Donna Shaw, who is the “woman behind the curtain” of another great recognition luncheon.

In addition to these Hilton College honors, the University of Houston Office of the Provost recognized Dr. Stephen Barth with the Teaching Excellence Career Award, Dr. JéAnna Abbott with the Teaching Excellence Award for Group Teaching, and doctoral candidate Elizabeth Whalen with the Teaching Excellence Graduate Teaching Assistant Award. Provost Paula Myrick Short presented these prestigious honors during the 2018 Faculty Excellence Awards Dinner on April 26.

Congrats to all of this year’s recipients – we really do have the best faculty and staff around! 

(Story & Photos: Pearl Cajoles)

Posted on May 25, 2018