This year, we will be highlighting recipients of the President’s Service Awards for Excellence and the President’s Staff Awards at the Vancouver campus, focusing on what their awards mean to them, as well as how they bring recognition to the workplace.
This week’s profile features Kevin Mo, Patrol Officer, Campus Security, who received one of two 2015 President’s Staff Award for Emerging Leadership (see citation here).
What were you recognized for?
I was recognized as an emerging leader in my work with UBC Campus Security, the UBC Community United Way Campaign, and in my volunteerism with local community organizations and programs.
What did the award mean to you? How did it feel to be recognized?
Although a surprise, I feel very honoured to receive the award and be recognized by my peers and managers. The award indicated to me that my daily performance and interactions to build teamwork is making an impact in my department and the UBC community. I believe teamwork is important in any organization and definitely in Campus Security, where team members routinely communicate closely with each other. I am happy that the award will encourage my colleagues and other departmental staff to contribute to their workplace and the University community with teamwork, leadership, and excellence.
How has the award impacted your workplace experiences since?
I am grateful to be recognized by my peers, the nomination committee, and by UBC President Martha Piper, which has made me feel like I have contributed positively to the University community. This award affirmed to me that I am on the right path in my professional and personal endeavours, and at the same time, reinforced a sense of purpose in my work and emboldened my confidence to pursue leadership opportunities.
In addition, the recognition has motivated me to continue encouraging my colleagues to perform to the best of their abilities. To reiterate fellow PSA recipient Linda Ong’s comment, UBC is a place where good work is noticed.
How do you recognize your colleagues in the workplace?
I recognize my colleagues’ outstanding work by sending to them emails that are carbon copied to the rest of my team or by saying a few thoughtful words during team meetings. A simple, “Great work!” or “Amazing team effort on the assignment!” to recognize my colleagues have made a difference to enhance workplace relationships and communication – and encourages my colleagues to pay recognition forward. As well, acknowledging the positive contributions of my colleagues allows them to recognize in themselves, their purpose and value to our department and within the University community. When I was a Campaign Associate with the UBC Community United Way Campaign, I recognized colleagues and volunteers with Thank You cards. This award has inspired me to think of new ways to give thanks and recognize my colleagues.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I encourage peers and supervisors to nominate someone or a team in their department for a PSA that makes an impact in their unit and the University community. In addition, I encourage everyone to recognize and give thanks – a simple, “Thank you! Great work!” – to anyone in their daily encounters who give their best.
Do you know staff who’ve made an outstanding contribution at UBC? Nominate them for the 2016 President’s Awards.