Posted on February 2, 2024 by Rebekah Alegria
The Carlos Alvarez College of Business celebrated outstanding faculty and staff achievements at its annual Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony last month. The event recognized 12 faculty and staff members for their exemplary contributions.
Opening the ceremony with an expression of gratitude to all faculty and staff, Dean Jonathon Halbesleben stated, "This ceremony not only honors our awardees, but also celebrates the collective efforts and achievements of our entire community."
Seven faculty members were honored for their contributions in teaching, research and service. Keying Ye, professor of management science and statistics, was awarded the E. Lou Curry Teaching Excellence Award, highlighting his passion and effectiveness in teaching statistical methods. Yeonjoo Park, assistant professor of management science and statistics, and Rita Mitra, professor of practice in information systems and cyber security, were presented with the 1969 Commemorative Award for Teaching Excellence for tenure-track and fixed-term-track faculty, respectively.
In the research category, Dina Krasikova, associate professor of management, and Jihye Jung, assistant professor of marketing, were named the Col. Jean Piccione and Lt. Col. Philip Piccione Endowed Research Award recipients. Krasikova's research is multifaceted and integrates leadership in organizations and employee wellbeing. Jung explores the link between consumer identity and spending.
Maho Sonmez, professor of practice in management science and statistics, received the Patrick J. Clynes Endowed Excellence in Service Award. During his 10 years at UTSA, Sun has enhanced his department’s academic programs and student success initiatives through his service.
In recognition of faculty excellence in the areas of teaching, research and service, Minghe Sun, professor of management science and statistics, received the 1969 Commemorative Award for Overall Faculty Excellence. Throughout Sun's 30-year career, he has taught both large section and graduate level courses. He is a prolific researcher who most recently has focused on machine learning, data mining and supply chain management. And, as a senior faculty member he has set an example of what it means to be a collegial and contributing member of his department.
Five staff members were recognized for their accomplishments. Katie McBride, senior administrative associate in the Department of Economics, received the Alvarez Rising Star Award, which is presented to employees with less than three years of service who have made significant contributions to the college. Eddie Alvarez, manager of the Business Service Center, was honored with the Leadership Award for his outstanding supervision and support of the college's goals.
Shelly Dotson, assistant to the dean, and Sara Gothelf, program manager in the Student Success Center, were both named recipients of the Extra Mile Award. This award is given to staff who put in extra effort in their assignment and with their peers and customers. Mary Kalicki, administrative services officer in the Department of Management, was honored with the prestigious Order of the Roadrunner Award. She was honored for her ongoing excellence within her role and her immeasurable contributions to both her department and the college.
— Rebekah Alegria
