The inaugural Staff Excellence Celebration on April 16, 2026 drew an incredible turnout. More than 120 staff members received nominations, and recognizing our staff was a reminder of how much excellent work happens on this campus every day.
Congratulations to the 2026 award recipients:
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Rising Star Award: Brittany Frederick, Director, Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Multicultural Education
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Mentorship Award: Jon Birr, Sergeant, WPI Police
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Unity Award: Angela Kao, Grants Manager, Computer Science
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Innovator Award: Lisa Pearlman, Executive Director, Health & Wellness
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- President's Award for Exceptional Service:
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Matt Foster, Executive Director, Housing & Residential Experience
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Kathleen Head, Director, Global Experience Office
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Staff Council Service Award: Lauren Turner, Senior Vice President, Talent & Inclusion
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Thank you to Talent & Inclusion for partnering with Staff Council to make this event possible, and to President Grace Wang for attending and welcoming everyone.