Wednesday, August 09, 2000

WILMINGTON, NC -- Judith Siko, an accounting technician in the Division for Academic Affairs, received the 2000 UNCW Staff Award of Excellence. Chancellor James R. Leutze presented the award at the university's 25th annual Service Awards Program at noon, today, in Wagoner Hall.

Siko, one of 14 nominees, was named in the "outstanding state service" category. The honor recognized her efforts to rework the division's accounting procedures to make the financial data easier to assimilate and present. The change enabled state resources to be expended more efficiently. Her nomination letter also recognized her volunteer efforts at the university and the in the community. Siko assists with the university's commencement ceremonies twice a year and freshman move-in. She also volunteers with the American Cancer Society Festival of Trees and Relay for Life, the American Red Cross, New Hanover Regional Medical Center and other local organizations.

The UNCW Staff Award of Excellence is presented to an employee whose service to the university exemplifies either outstanding state service, innovations, public service, human relations or safety/heroism. Other nominees were Linda Adkins, administrative manager for the College of Arts and Sciences; Peggy Astraikis, information systems liaison for the physical plant; Emily J. Bliss, senior associate director of financial aid and veterans services; Judy W. Bowers, director of the Student Health Center; Elizabeth Greene, benefits counselor, human resources; A. C. Hosea, office assistant in the Department of Curricular Studies in the Watson School of Education; Terri A. Joynes, director of advancement services; Lawana Kay McLean, administrative secretary in the College of Arts and Sciences; Gail Morrison, accounting clerk, physical plant; Thom D. Rakes, director of career services; Kate Temoney, coordinator for commuter and non-traditional student services; H. E. "Hunter" Thompson, director of community outreach services in the Division for Public Service and Extended Education; and Pamela B. Whitlock, director of the Office of Research Administration.

As this year's recipient, Siko received a $1,500 cash award presented on behalf of the UNCW Board of Trustees, a reserved parking space for one year, three days of vacation leave, a presentation clock, framed certificate and her name on a perpetual plaque in the chancellor's office. The recipient of the UNCW Staff Award of Excellence becomes the university's nominee for the Governor's Award of Excellence, which is presented in September.

Ann Hancock, UNCW's head women's basketball coach served as mistress of ceremonies. Additionally, the university recognized 84 employees achieving five-year anniversary levels of state service and 32 retiring employees.