Denton, TX - Two College of Liberal Arts and Social Science (CLASS) staff members, namely, Lisa Gage and Diane Cuplin were recognized by President Neal Smatresk at the University of North Texas (UNT) Staff Awards Appreciation Luncheon, which was held at the UNT Coliseum.

Gage, a budget officer with CLASS Executive Dean's Office received the Ruby Raines Administrative Professionals Award. Gage was praised for her "can-do" attitude and level of competence that keeps UNT moving. Prior to making the move to her current position, Gage served as the administrative coordinator and assistant to the chair in the Department of Economics, and also provided critical support to the CLASS Executive Dean's Office during the Spring 2021 semester. Throughout the pandemic, Gage facilitated the international graduate student application process, ensuring their ability to attend UNT. She also worked diligently to connect faculty with the resources they needed to teach remotely, and when returning to the office, she prepared a detailed plan of action that included comprehensive department budget spreadsheets and a strategy for increasing the number of funded graduate students. Lisa's pattern of stepping up when needed was not new or atypical; she has a history of doing whatever it takes to ensure CLASS and UNT are successful. Lisa demonstrates creativity and resourcefulness, exceptional service and goes above and beyond the call of duty for students and colleagues.

Culpin, the administrative coordinator in the Department of English received the Steve Miller Outstanding Employee Award. Culpin's patience, good humor, and can-do attitude have long been essential to the smooth operation of the Department of English. Every memo is exquisitely crafted, every problem solved with diligence and grace, and every member of her team reassured by her comforting refrain: "We'll get it sorted." When the department chair unexpectedly resigned in 2018-19, Diane took on additional work to keep chaos at bay until the open position was filled. A tireless advocate and an invaluable resource for students, faculty, and staff alike, Diane has been called "near-magical in her organizational and team-building acumen." As might be expected, she out-did her usual out-doings during the pandemic, showing unflappable calm as she helped academic leaders coordinate numerous schedule revisions and faculty transition to a remote learning environment. Whether she's brainstorming solutions to complex problems or making seasonal decorations for the office, Diane is an exemplary staff member who turns the department into a community.

"CLASS has an amazing group of hard-working and dedicated staff members", said Executive Dean Dr. Tamara L. Brown. "I am incredibly grateful to be affiliated with Lisa and Diane; two outstanding individuals that go above and beyond their role to help the college, faculty, staff, students, and university", said Brown.

To review the 2022 Staff Appreciation Award Winners, click here.

For more information on the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, at UNT click here.

About the Ruby Raines Administrative Professionals Award. The Ruby Raines Administrative Professionals Award recognizes the administrative staff members who demonstrate hard work and commitment to ensure excellence in support of the University's mission and success within their own respective programs.

About the Steve Miller Outstanding Employee Award. The Steve Miller Outstanding Employee Award is named in memory of Steve Miller, Assistant Vice President of Human Resources. The award recognizes staff members whose contributions have positively impacted the division and/or University. Up to four employees per year can be honored in this category.