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Five DDCE Employees Honored for Exemplary Service

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The DDCE President’s Exemplary Service Award Committee is excited to announce the award recipients for 2019-2020. All of the nominees that were submitted to the committee have demonstrated incredible dedication and service to the division and the university.

image of candaceCandace Berrier – Teacher, University of Texas Charter Schools (UTCS)
As a teacher at the Helping Hands Home campus, Candace demonstrates a high level of collaboration with team members, is highly organized, and has done an excellent job at keeping HHH compliant in special education, according to her nomination. Her nominator recognized that she is a “great leader, teacher and role model.” It is clear that Candace’s students are her priority, and she is very supportive of her fellow staff members, especially the Special Education team members.

image of scarlettScarlett Calvin – STEAM Teacher, University of Texas Elementary School (UTES)
UT alumna Scarlett Calvin’s enthusiasm for STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math), combined with her loving but clear approach to teaching and learning, allows all students to thrive and learn. She has high expectations for herself and her students. Over the past seven years at UTES, Scarlett has worked tirelessly for the Little Longhorns.

image of personQuỳnh-Hương N. Nguyn – Assistant Director, Gender and Sexuality Center (GSC)
In just two years on campus, Quỳnh-Hương is being recognized for her dedication to students and her initiative in policy work and outreach. In the first year that she joined the GSC staff, her student advocacy work made her the recipient of the coveted AIR Award given by students at Lavender Graduation. She is a highly effective educator and has presented over 100 workshops this semester alone.

image of award winnerCrystal Viagran –  Director of Finance and Operations, Hogg Foundation for Mental Health
Receiving multiple nominations, it is clear that Crystal has many fans throughout the Hogg Foundation and is recognized for her insight and integrity. “Crystal has cultivated a culture of excellence that drives her team by embracing new ideas, building on strengths, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing new processes that benefit the foundation’s effectiveness,” said one nominator. She and her team have created several new resources aimed at assisting Hogg Foundation staff and grantees.

image of awardeeCaroline Walls – Administrative Manager, University Interscholastic League (UIL)
Since becoming administrative manager at UIL in 2014, Caroline has proved she is always professional, detail-oriented and forward thinking. She is always willing to improve and streamline processes such as a formal process for appeals for the State Executive Committee and a records management plan for the entire UIL. Caroline’s nominator applauded her work ethic and willingness to take on new responsibilities.