As summer settles over campus and the buzz of the academic year fades, the University of South Carolina remains active behind the scenes. While students and faculty take a well-earned break, USC’s dedicated staff keep the campus moving — planning, preparing and innovating for the year ahead.
To recognize their hard work and dedication, USC is hosting two special appreciation events during the week of May 19. The USC Staff Excellence Awards ceremony will be May 19 with the second annual Staff Appreciation Day May 22.
USC staff members are invited to nominate a colleague for a USC Staff Excellence Award, which celebrate those who go above and beyond in their roles, making a lasting impact on the university community.
“We are thrilled to launch our Staff Excellence Awards as a gateway to honor our hard-working and dedicated staff members who enrich our academic community,” said Caroline Agardy, vice president for the Division of Human Resources. “Our awards highlight the difference-makers, change agents and innovators that make up the staff at the University of South Carolina. Please nominate a team member or colleague who goes above and beyond their role and significantly impacts the Gamecock community.”
Awards will be presented in the following categories:
- Excellence in Customer Service Award
- Excellence in the Student Experience Award
- Excellence in Innovation
- Commitment to People Award
- Culture Builder Award
- Gamecock Spirit Award
- Excellence in Collaboration Award
- Rising Star Award
- Legacy of Excellence Award
- Excellence in Community Impact Award
Winners will be honored at a ceremony on May 19, where they will receive a one-time monetary prize. Nominations are open until April 16.
In addition to the awards, USC staff are invited to the annual Staff Appreciation Day on May 22 — a day dedicated to celebrating the incredible contributions of USC staff.
“Staff Appreciation Day celebrates the dedication of over 5,300 staff members who tirelessly support our university community and play a crucial role in our students' success,” Staff Senate President Megan Colascione said. “As the only entity dispersed throughout every part of the university system, our staff are truly the backbone of our institution. We are thrilled to give staff the spotlight they deserve on this incredible day.”
Established by a Staff Senate resolution and approved by the Board of Trustees and executive leadership, this special day will feature free food, prizes, music, special guests and more. Free parking will be available for attendees in Bull Street Garage.
All USC staff are encouraged to RSVP by May 9 at the form below or on the Staff Senate website.
Questions about the Staff Excellence Awards can be sent to Kris Mayer at KMayer@mailbox.sc.edu. Questions about Staff Appreciation Day can be sent to staff.senate@sc.edu.