5/6/2024
Written by
Two of MechSE’s hard-working and beloved staff – Stephanie Ott-Monsivais and Susan Roughton – have been named the winners of the 2024 MechSE Staff Award for Exemplary Service.
The award, which has been presented to staff in the department for more than a decade, recognizes at least one staff person annually who demonstrates excellence in overall work performance; promotes positive morale and service to others; aims to improve self as well as to develop and recognize others; exhibits initiative and creativity in problem-solving; and/or enhances the image of the department.
Nominations are solicited from all MechSE faculty, staff and students. The winners were recognized at the MechSE Awards Banquet in April.
“I love MechSE and I love our students. I’m just really touched that someone nominated me, and I’m happy to accept this award,” said Ott-Monsivais, who is the Director of Undergraduate Programs.
“Stephanie’s long career in MechSE – both as an undergraduate and graduate student and as MechSE staff – is an inspiration to all undergrads who come to our Undergraduate Programs Office. She is extremely knowledgeable about our curriculum, knows how to solve any problem, and is an amazing resource for our student organizations – just to name a few things. She does all of this while striving to support individual students’ personal goals,” said Department Head Tony Jacobi.
Roughton is the Program Coordinator for the Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (M.Eng.ME) program.
“Since the launch of this degree program nearly 10 years ago, Susan has been the guiding light for students, supporting them and cheering them to the finish line. She implemented new and unique ways of creating a strong community among students and alumni that they carry with them and engage with long after they graduate from the program. In so many ways, she is the most important reason for the success of this program and its students,” said Jacobi.
“This is a real honor,” said Roughton. “I love this department, and it’s a treasure to come to work with so many dedicated, brilliant students, faculty and staff.”