As we begin a new year, it is important to reflect on the year past and express gratitude for the incredible work accomplished by everyone at Carolina. We would like to recognize the UNC-Chapel Hill employees who were nominated for the 2020 Governor’s Awards for Excellence for their remarkable efforts and positive difference they made in the lives of their fellow North Carolinians.
The Governor’s Awards for Excellence, established in 1982, is the absolute highest honor a state employee is eligible to receive. To be nominated for the award is a tremendous honor. In 2020, Carolina had more employees nominated than ever before. We thank you for your effort and dedication to the Carolina community and state of North Carolina.
Thank you for nominating your fellow Tar Heels and supporting this wonderful program. Nominations for 2021 will open up in February. Now is the time to start thinking of employees who have gone well beyond their call of duty during 2020!
Governor’s Awards for Excellence Categories and Nominees
Efficiency & Innovation
Employees nominated in this category improved the efficiency of state government services by establishing new and/or improved methods, practices, plans or designs resulting in innovation, savings and/or efficiencies.
- Steven King, UNC Reese Innovation Lab
- The Teaching & Learning with Technology Team from Information Technology Services: Suzanne Cadwell, Abi Winegarden, Andy Brawn, Ashley Willis, Bob Henshaw, Brenda Ramey, Charlie Wilcher, Dennis Wilson, Garrett Cook, Gina Reitz, Holt Mikeal, Julius “J” Bazemore, Jeremiah Joyner, Jordan Adams, Kerry O’Sullivan, Lloyd King, Mark Hurt, Marla Sullivan, Morgon Haskell, Patrick Lesane, Thao Nghi Tu, Tim Harper, Vaughn Booker and Yun Fan
Human Relations
Employees nominate in this category made outstanding contributions toward enhancing the quality and morale of the workplace or creating a better public image of state government (such as positive personal interaction with other employees; public awareness; working on relations internally within an agency; or collaboration between different agencies).
- James Ellis, UNC Police
- Adrianne Gibilisco, Diversity and Inclusion
- Patricia Harris, School of Education
Public Service
Employees nominated in this category made outstanding contributions by participating in or implementing community and public service projects (such as volunteering with various non-profit organizations).
- Robert Baskin Cooper, Information Services
- Dawna Jones, Dean of Students
- Claire Lorch, North Carolina Botanical Garden
- William Sturkey, Department of History
Of the 420 state nominations received by the Office of State Human Resources this year, thirteen recipients were chosen to receive an award.