Service awards recognize longtime faculty and staff members

Honoring employees who have reached a milestone of 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 55 years of service between January 1, 2021, and May 31, 2022, the Long Service Awards Ceremony celebrated those who have dedicated many years to the University of Miami.

For the second year, the University of Miami hosted a virtual celebration in recognition of those who have served the institution for 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 55 years. Leaders and colleagues gathered to acknowledge the work of these employees and share stories about their journeys during the Long Service Award Ceremony, held on Tuesday, April 26.

Passion, people, and hard work fuel long-term careers.

The event honored close to 400 faculty and staff members from across all campuses and satellite locations, some of whom began their time at the University more than 55 years ago. When asked what kept them at the University all these years and for some words of advice, a common thread emerged. Passion, hard work, and a connection to people cultivated their deep roots at the U.

Leaders across the University celebrate honorees.

Hosted by Human Resources, honorees were joined by University President Julio Frenk; Laurie Silvers, chair of the board of trustees; Rudy Fernandez, executive vice president for external affairs and strategic initiatives and chief of staff; Aileen Ugalde, senior vice president and general counsel; Josh Friedman, senior vice president for development and alumni relations; Jacqueline Travisano, executive vice president for Business and Finance and chief operating officer; Patricia Whitely, senior vice president for Student Affairs; Dr. Dipen Parekh, chief operating officer of UHealth; Dr. Henri Ford, dean and chief academic officer for the Miller School of Medicine; and Jeffrey Duerk, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. 

Joined by his family on Zoom, Cornelis Rowaan, instrument calibration engineer, celebrated 25 years of service at the Miller School of Medicine.
Joined by his family on Zoom, Cornelis Rowaan, instrument calibration engineer, celebrated 25 years of service at the Miller School of Medicine.

Moderated by Greg Brenner, assistant vice president for HR Talent and Organizational Development, the virtual celebration buzzed with kudos on the chat, as almost 500 people gathered to recognize longtime employees. Before the event ended, Sebastian the Ibis joined the call to congratulate the honorees and share his ’Canes spirit with all those in attendance.

While each of the honorees brought diverse backgrounds, took different career paths, and had unique experiences, their stories are intricately woven by their love for the University of Miami. Their contributions and successes have been integral to the institution’s history and will continue to shape our future. View the full listing of 2021 honorees and follow Life@TheU in the coming weeks to hear more about their transformations during their time at the U.