Faculty & Staff Awards

Excellence in Graduate Program Support Award

Overview

The UF Graduate School Excellence in Graduate Program Support Award recognizes outstanding contributions by a staff member who provides exceptional support for graduate education. This award highlights individuals who demonstrate excellence in service, collaboration, and innovation, fostering a welcoming environment for graduate students.

Recognition & Award

Recognition: Honored at the UF Graduate School Awards Ceremony
Cash Award: $2,000

Eligibility

Eligible nominees include staff members who have played a significant role in graduate program administration or student support within a UF department, college, or administrative unit.
Nominations may be submitted by students (current or former), faculty members, department chairs, or higher-level administrators. Nominees should work with nominators to ensure all portfolio requirements are met.
Nominees must have worked at UF for at least the past two calendar years in a role supporting graduate education.
Faculty members are not eligible for this award, as they may be nominated for other teaching or advising awards.

Application Process

Submission Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026.

Submission Format:

All application materials must be compiled into a single PDF and submitted electronically to gradawards@aa.ufl.edu.
Use 12-point font and label each section header with the candidate’s name and department.
The portfolio cannot exceed 12 pages and should follow the format outlined below.

Selection Criteria

Nominees will be evaluated on their ability to:

Demonstrate excellence in job performance and commitment to graduate student success.
Provide exceptional service and collaboration with graduate students, faculty, and staff.
Foster an environment that supports student success.
Exhibit initiative, creativity, and leadership in improving graduate student experiences.
Sustain and enhance programs and services that benefit graduate students.

Application Portfolio Requirements

Section 1: Cover Page Form
Section 2: Describe your role, philosophy, and impact on graduate program support. Include the approximate percentage of time spent on graduate student matters (2 pages max).
Section 3: Letters of Recommendation
- Chair or Graduate Coordinator (2 pages max)
- Recent Graduate (2 pages max)
- Supervisor or Faculty Member (2 pages max)
Section 4: A résumé highlighting UF employment, professional development, and leadership activities (2 pages max).
Section 5: A letter from supervisor confirming good standing in current employment (1 page).

Questions?

Email gradawards@aa.ufl.edu if you have any questions about this award.