UDaily
Logo Image

Recognizing outstanding staff

Photos by Evan Krape

University of Delaware celebrates 2025–2026 Staff Excellence Award winners

UD Human Resources proudly recognizes the recipients of the 2025-2026 Staff Excellence Awards, honoring individuals and teams whose dedication, innovation and service exemplify the very best of the UD community. 

Selected through a thoughtful nomination and review process, this year’s honorees represent the breadth of talent and commitment across the University, demonstrating meaningful impact for our students, colleagues and the broader community. These outstanding contributions were celebrated at the annual Staff Excellence Awards luncheon on May 14 at the Clayton Ballroom, where colleagues came together to celebrate the achievements of this year’s recipients. 

Moments of recognition, both formal and informal, help create a workplace where individuals feel valued and inspired to do their best work. Please join us in congratulating this year’s awardees and consider sharing a Hen High Five note of gratitude with a colleague to recognize the people closest to you. 

Learn more about UD’s employee recognition programming at udel.edu/udidit.

David Hannah, chair of the President’s Staff Council, delivers remarks.
David Hannah, chair of the President’s Staff Council, delivers remarks.

Distinguished Individual Staff Excellence Award 

Amy Dolbow, academic program coordinator 

Amy Dolbow is recognized for her exceptional work to streamline processes and champion student success across the College of Arts and Sciences’ history, history education and museum studies programs. Through her thoughtful approach to improving operations and enhancing the student experience, Dolbow has demonstrated a deep commitment to innovation and community. 

Her efforts have helped create an environment where students, faculty and staff can grow with purpose, reflecting the very best of UD’s values. 

President Laura Carlson presents the Distinguished Staff Excellence Award to Amy Dolbow.
President Laura Carlson presents the Distinguished Staff Excellence Award to Amy Dolbow.

Distinguished Team Excellence Award 

Division of Enrollment Management: Stellic Implementation Team 

Patrick Shields, Daniel Reidinger, Holly Gunlefinger, Naomi Nash and Colleen Kent Greenstine 

The Stellic Implementation Team is recognized for their multi-year, cross-functional effort to successfully implement Stellic, transforming the University of Delaware’s academic planning and advising infrastructure. By unifying critical academic systems into a single, innovative platform, the team has significantly enhanced the experience for thousands of students, faculty and staff. 

Their collaboration, technical expertise and sustained commitment to improvement have streamlined processes, increased access to essential tools and positioned UD for continued innovation in student success. 

Community and Service Excellence Award 

Kate Culhane-Suluai, program manager, Partnership for Healthy Communities 

Kate Culhane-Suluai is recognized for her commitment to strengthening connections across the University and the broader community. In her role with the Partnership for Healthy Communities, she has brought together students, faculty, staff and community stakeholders to advance initiatives that promote health and wellbeing. 

Her work on the UD Pride Caucus board further reflects her dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment. Through her collaborative approach and passion for engagement, she exemplifies the spirit of service that defines UD. 

Innovation Excellence Award 

School of Nursing, Center for Simulation Innovation, Interdisciplinary Education, and Entrepreneurship (CSIIDEE): Simulation Operations Team 

BJ Janney and James Burget 

The Simulation Operations Team is recognized for their creative approach to improving simulation-based learning. By leveraging innovative 3D printing methods and repurposing existing supplies, Janney and Burget have reduced the cost and materials required to produce simulation lab kits. 

Their work supports both sustainability and efficiency while maintaining high-quality learning experiences, demonstrating the power of innovation in advancing education at UD. 

College of Health Sciences winners with their nominators (left to right): Tiffany Heiger, Ellie Walt, Kate Culhane-Suluai, BJ Janney, James Burget, Heiddy DiGregorio.
College of Health Sciences winners with their nominators (left to right): Tiffany Heiger, Ellie Walt, Kate Culhane-Suluai, BJ Janney, James Burget, Heiddy DiGregorio.

Student Impact Award 

Jissell Martinez, business administrator, Associate in Arts Program 

Jissell Martinez is recognized for her work advancing student success and inclusion. She established and secured funding for the Associate in Arts Program’s First Gen Mentorship Program, providing critical support for first-generation Delaware college students. 

Her efforts contribute directly to increased retention and reflect UD’s commitment to creating an environment where all Blue Hens feel supported and empowered to belong with joy. 

Student Impact Award winner, Jissell Martinez (center) with her supporters.
Student Impact Award winner, Jissell Martinez (center) with her supporters.

Excellence in Leadership Award 

Adrian McCleary, director, University Studies and Student Support Programs 

Adrian McCleary is recognized for demonstrating leadership that has helped shape a shared vision for supporting students both within and beyond the University Studies Program. His ability to align teams around student-centered goals has strengthened programming and enhanced the overall student experience. 

Through thoughtful leadership and commitment to collaboration, McCleary has fostered an environment that prioritizes student success and holistic support. 

Excellence in Leadership Award winner, Adrian McCleary (center), with the University Studies and Student Support Programs team.
Excellence in Leadership Award winner, Adrian McCleary (center), with the University Studies and Student Support Programs team.

More Inside UD Stories

See More Stories

Contact Us

Have a UDaily story idea?

Contact us at ocm@udel.edu

Members of the press

Contact us at mediarelations@udel.edu or visit the Media Relations website

ADVERTISEMENT