Madison Reporter

To honor their contributions to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, 10 University Staff members have been recognized with 2024 University Staff Recognition Awards. The employees received their awards at a ceremony earlier this month.

The winners are recognized for achievements that include building collegiality with colleagues and students, dedication to craft, problem-solving, improving workplace culture, and demonstrating leadership. The following profiles are summaries from nominations submitted to the selection committee.

José Molina Ruano, a carpenter with Facilities Planning & Management (FP&M), has made a significant impact since joining in 2019. He is known for completing work orders promptly and maintaining high-quality standards. His coworkers commend his passion for woodworking and dedication to his trade. Molina Ruano also leads a carpentry workshop at Eagle Heights, teaching youth how to build birdhouses.

Barbara Peters, a food service assistant advanced with University Housing, has been an employee for over 40 years. She is recognized as a leader in her position at Rheta Market inside Chadbourne Hall. Peters has trained numerous employees and has contributed significantly through her advocacy work outside the university and service on various governance committees.

Ricardo Portillo, a floor technician with FP&M, maintains approximately 90,000 square feet of space at the Plant Science complex. Despite staffing shortages, he remains committed to excellent work and assists in training new employees. Portillo's bilingualism is valuable to his coworkers.

Jill Medenwaldt serves as a veterinary nurse supervisor in the School of Veterinary Medicine. Her role includes supervising nursing staff and conducting outreach for the hospital’s veterinary nurse intern program. Medenwaldt is praised for her positive attitude and leadership in key operational areas during expansion efforts at the school.

Nathan Paiser works as an animal care technician III at the Emmons Blaine Dairy Cattle Center in Arlington. An employee since 1998, Paiser demonstrates expertise across all facets of the facility's operations and contributes actively to research projects while mentoring new employees.

Chris Komorowski is a bindery worker with Information Technology’s Digital Publishing & Printing Services (DoIT). With 12 years of experience, he is considered the go-to person for challenging projects due to his problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Michael Hawk serves as a specimen receiving technician at the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene. Since starting his career there in 1993, Hawk leads the Clinical Supplies section efficiently while providing exceptional customer service.

Kimberly Burmeister works as a procurement assistant within the School of Medicine & Public Health’s Biomedical Research Model Services department. For over 23 years, she has played an essential role in procuring research animals necessary for medical research protocols.

Erin Hale serves as an administrative assistant in the Department of Chemistry within the College of Letters & Science. She has fostered positive working relationships by organizing events and initiatives that bring together staff members from different departments.

Brendon Panke works as an administrative assistant II at the Center for Healthy Minds within the College of Letters & Science. Known for fostering belonging among staff members through his engagement efforts, Panke co-led a culture committee aimed at promoting diversity within the center.