Celebrating faculty and staff excellence

President Satish K. Tripathi made the point in his recent State of the University address, but it bears repeating, he told those attending Thursday’s Celebration of Faculty and Staff Academic Excellence.

“At UB, excellence defines us — and surrounds us,” Tripathi said in welcoming remarks at the annual gathering in Lippes Concert Hall in Slee Hall. “We see it in the high caliber of our students’ academic work; in the exceptional professional development our staff realize throughout their careers; and in our faculty’s exemplary scholarship, research, creative projects and clinical care.

“Today, we recognize faculty and staff who consistently clear the high bar of excellence we set in all our UB endeavors,” Tripathi said. “In embracing UB’s mission, our honorees not only embody excellence, they enhance UB’s stature as a premier public research university.”

The annual Celebration of Faculty and Staff Academic Excellence recognizes those individuals whose long-term contributions have made a significant impact on the people and communities around them, whether through groundbreaking research or in ensuring the smooth operation of a department or office.

Robert Granfield, vice provost for faculty affairs, served as emcee during the ceremony, which included a performance by two-time Grammy Award-winning violinist Melissa White, professor of music. Faculty and staff were acknowledged on stage in several categories, including:

• 50 years of service to UB.
• UB Distinguished Professor.
• SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence.
• SUNY Distinguished faculty.
• Prestigious national and international awards.

Provost A. Scott Weber wrapped up the celebration by echoing Tripathi’s earlier remarks. “You exemplify excellence at UB,” he told honorees.

“Groundbreaking research, transformative educational experiences and deeply engaged service to our communities are the hallmarks of a great public research university, and all are embodied by the diverse group of awards you have earned from across all fields of endeavor here at UB.

“Your achievements, efforts and honors help build UB’s global reputation by demonstrating the significant societal impact of our university community,” Weber said.

“Your contributions have made UB’s mission to deliver exceptional research, education, clinical care and engagement possible.”

Following the ceremony, honorees, friends, family and colleagues gathered for a reception in the Slee lobby.

A selection of other research, teaching and mentoring awards received by faculty and staff during 2024 are listed on the Celebration of Academic Excellence website.