91社区

Three College of Behavioral and Community Sciences team members were recognized with a 2024 91社区 (USF) Outstanding Staff Award at the university's celebration on Jan. 24. The Outstanding Staff Award honors USF employees who demonstrate above-and-beyond performance and support the values in USF's Strategic Plan, contributing to the university's success and upward trajectory.

Kerianne Beckford, unit research administrator, was nominated in the Innovation category. This category highlights the exploration of new technologies to create efficiencies and solve problems, along with developing a culture of learning, growth, entrepreneurial spirit, and partnerships. As grant administrator, Beckford has made critical contributions to the success of two large federally funded projects and the USF Trafficking in Persons Research Lab.

"Kerianne is an extraordinary employee who goes above and beyond her duties," wrote nominator Howard Goldstein, PhD, associate dean and professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. "No task is too small or too complex for her to take on and complete. She is one of those rare employees who sets their eye on the goal and will do whatever is needed to succeed. Kerianne is a critical asset to our college and university. She deserves to be recognized and rewarded for her outstanding performance and dedication."

Patty Cleveland, MPA, associate director in the Dean's Office, was also nominated in the Innovation category. With more than three decades of service to USF, Cleveland has most recently been involved with the establishment of the 91社区 Center for Behavioral Health Workforce, which will enhance recruitment and retention efforts and expand pathways to behavioral health professions, and the development of the college's Mental Health and Wellness in the Workplace certificate program.

"Patty gets the kitchen sink thrown at her on a daily basis and catches it all gracefully, innovating left and right to get everything accomplished," wrote Dean Julie Serovich, PhD, in her nomination. "If there is something going on in the college, Patty has a hand in it, whether it is spearheading scholarship development and awards, planning large and small events, developing online courses, or ensuring bathroom renovations are progressing smoothly, you can bet there鈥檚 an email with Patty鈥檚 name included."

Janet Reyes, contracts and grants manager for the Department of Child and Family Studies, was nominated in the Inquiry category, which includes demonstrating inquiry through high-quality, multidisciplinary education; excellence in teaching and learning; and pursuing high-impact scholarship, research, and creative pursuits.

Reyes' nomination for this award included statements from several colleagues who highlighted her vital role in supporting high-impact research. Her contributions include helping researchers obtain restricted datasets; supporting efforts to initiate and manage grant proposals amid changing federal, state, university systems and rules; and creating job aids to assist new faculty and staff.

鈥淛anet is a consummate professional who consistently demonstrates exemplary performance with a level of skill, commitment, and quality that goes above and beyond typical expectations. She plays a crucial role in CFS operations and addresses responsibilities with a high level of diligence, initiative, timeliness, accuracy, and attention to detail," wrote Tammy Jorgensen-Smith, PhD, who contributed to Reyes' nomination.

This year saw a notable increase in nominations for the Outstanding Staff Awards, reflecting the growing excellence and dedication of USF鈥檚 employees.