In an effort to further recognize the exemplary work of our staff we launched the Staff Awards program in January 2020. (This program was the result of a 2018 Bold Idea and recommendation of a CAIFE team and was modeled after the Provost’s Awards). Congratulations to each of the 2023 winners.

Principles of Community – Outstanding Staff Award

Megan Gorrell, Title IX and Clery Compliance

The Principles of Community Outstanding Staff Award acknowledges a staff member who upholds Fresno State's Principles of Community and consistently excels in their work. This award seeks to recognize a staff member who maintains a positive attitude, interacts with others in a friendly, welcoming, and inclusive manner, and inspires others to model these behaviors.

As described in her nomination, Megan is a champion for respectful practices and believes that everyone deserves to be treated respectfully in the workplace. Megan models this daily and goes out of her way to ensure staff members feel heard, seen and known. She is always the first one to reach out and encourage others. Megan is a model of accountability and follows through on her commitments and responsibilities. She is respected by her colleagues and has a noticeable impact on positive team morale.

Congratulations Megan!

Bulldog Spirit

Eddie Hughes, University Marketing and Communications

The Bulldog Spirit award recognizes a staff member who displays exceptional Fresno State pride and spirit.

As described in his nominations, there is no bigger fan of Fresno State than Eddie. Eddie has been a football season ticket holder for many years and almost never misses a game. Eddie is a strong advocate for the University; he believes deeply in our mission and our commitment to student success. He is currently raising funds for a scholarship endowment in honor of his late father, who was also a huge Fresno State fan. The scholarships will support student‐athletes for generations to come. Eddie knows all the facts, figures and traditions of our university. He knows the words to our songs and the history behind our beloved mascots.

Congratulations Eddie!

Spirit of Innovation

Debbie Donner, Scheduling Office

The Innovation Award recognizes a staff member who has made exceptional contributions and improvements to their department or division through creativity and innovative thinking.

As described in her nomination, since 2019, Debbie has worked tirelessly to ensure that all first‐time‐freshmen (FTF) are enrolled in 9‐16 units as part of what initially began as a pilot for Block Scheduling. Since that time, she has continued to add colleges and majors into blocks with the result being that in academic year 2023‐24, all majors including those who are undeclared will be block enrolled during their first full academic year at Fresno State.

Congratulations Debbie!

Lifelong Learner

Georgianna Negron-Long, Student Health and Counseling Center

The Lifelong Learner Award recognizes the staff member who attends the most professional development classes in person and online offered through the Office of Organizational Excellence in an academic year.

Georgianna participated in 36 different learning opportunities in 2022-23. She regularly attended Winning with a Healthy Lifestyle, pilates as well as other offerings such as Sky Happiness Retreat, The First 90 Days, Excel Tips and Tricks and Managing Conflict.

Congratulations Georgianna!

Student Success

Hernan Maldonado, Lyles College of Engineering, Pathways: Student Support Services/MEP

The Student Success Award acknowledges a staff member who has gone above and beyond to contribute to the success of our students, which may include, but is not limited to: advising, career readiness, counseling, financial services, mentoring, services/referrals and tutoring.

As described in his nominations, Hernan is tireless in his commitment to provide support and opportunities for Lyles College of Engineering students. As the director of Pathways, Hernan assists students in finding tutoring and academic coaching and is always working to ensure Lyles College students get to shine and put their best foot forward. Hernan constantly looks for ways to engage students and provide them with opportunities to further their careers. He also organizes weekly career development services for students, weekly tutoring, leadership retreats and a professional speaker series.

Congratulations Hernan!