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Exceptional Contribution

Exceptional Contribution

This award pays tribute to a member of staff who has made an exceptional and outstanding contribution to the University community for 15 years or more.

The award winner will consistently work to a high standard and act as a positive role model. 

Prize

£1,000 will be awarded to the winning individual.

Core Values

This award relates to all five of our core values: EXCELLENCE, CONNECTIVITY, AMBITION, RESPECT and INTEGRITY.

Entry Criteria

  • This category is open to individual nominees only.
  • Nominees should have 15 years' service or more.

Nomination Advice

The Judging Panel will be looking for details of the significant and sustained contribution the individual has made to the University community and the positive impact they have made. 

Staff Excellence Award Nomination
Submit your nomination here
Our past winners...
On man and and two ladies standing in front of a red Staff Excellence Awards banner, with lady in the centre receiving a glass trophy award
2023 -2024 Winner
Jacinta McAtamney, Student and Campus Experience

Jacinta has been a key member of Queen’s Accommodation for over 21 years, progressing from housekeeper to Facilities Supervisor, leading a team of 35 to deliver exceptional service. Managing over 2,200 student bedrooms and 90 staff apartments, Jacinta ensures high standards, which was recognised through Queen’s earning the prestigious Gold Standard Accreditation from Investor in Students. Jacinta’s leadership, professionalism, and dedication to enhancing the student experience and promoting well-being make her an invaluable asset to Queen's Accommodation.

Image shows Co-Chairs of the Staff Excellence Awards Judging Panel, Gillian Magee and Mairead Regan, with winner Professor Pascal McKeown and host Andrew Ryan
2022 - 2023 Winner
Professor Michael Alcorn and Professor Pascal McKeown

For the first time ever, this year we had joint winners in the Exceptional Contribution category.  Professor Michael Alcorn, University Secretary's Office and Professor Pascal McKeown, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences

 

Professor Michael Alcorn

Michael's 35-year journey at Queen's is marked by remarkable achievements. From devising and developing the Music Technology pathway at Queen’s, to leading the successful bid to develop the Sonic Arts Research Centre, Michael's impact resonates across disciplines. His dedication extends beyond academia, as evidenced by his instrumental role in fostering sustainability initiatives and championing Queen's as a climate change action leader  

Professor Pascal McKeown

Pascal's service spans over two decades, with continued dedication to the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences; the Faculty, and the wider health care community. Pascal has been described as an outstanding ambassador for the University. With a selfless and compassionate approach to leadership, his impact on academic life at Queen’s has been exemplary and has enhanced the University’s reputation on a global scale.  

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2022 Winner
Maria Carrick, Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Maria is the PA to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for AHSS, having started her career at Queen's in the Faculty of Humanities Office. For over 25 years, she has made a significant contribution to the Faculty and the University. With her infectious energy, positivity and professionalism, Maria is a role model who exemplifies the University's Core Values.

Read Maria's blog

2021 Winner (previously 'Lifetime Achievement Award')
Dr John Stannard, School of Law

John is a senior lecturer in the School of Law who, at the time, had taught at Queen’s for 44 years. He was nominated for this award by several of his colleagues in the School who described him as being a teaching legend. John’s dedication and commitment to providing an enriching and unique teaching experience has been appreciated by generations of law students.

2020 Winner (previously 'Lifetime Achievement' Award)
Patrick Brannigan, Information Services

Paddy worked at Queen’s for over 40 years, delivering consultancy and training, and facilitating the embedding of technology and change management initiatives. He was an active member of various staff networks and groups throughout his career and was known widely across the University as a highly professional and approachable colleague.