UND presents Meritorious Service Awards at annual luncheon

May 22, 2025

Published in: Affinity, Service

2025 Staff Recognition Luncheon features service milestones and special awards for UND personnel

Andrew Armacost speaking to audience from podium — Image courtesy of MJD Photography.

Editor’s note: In the UND LEADS Strategic Plan, the Affinity core value calls on the University to “recruit and retain a robust UND work force,” in part by “acknowledging the valuable contributions of UND team members.” This story reports on a UND event that tries hard to fullfill that call each and every year.

This story originally was published on May 22.

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On Tuesday, May 13, the University’s Office of Human Resources hosted its annual Staff Recognition Luncheon in the Memorial Union Ballroom.

Recognized were staff members who reached five-year milestones of service in 2025, including some who have now served UND for more than 40 years. The full list of milestone honorees is available to read in University Letter.

Also awarded were 11 Meritorious Service Awards, recognizing individuals who best honor the University’s mission and values through their dedication, performance and relationships with associates. A $1,000 prize is included for each award.

Barb Anderson shaking hands with Andrew Armacost, accepting award — Image courtesy of MJD Photography.

Meritorious Service Award

Awardees are listed in alphabetical order.

Barb Anderson, RAIN Program Director, College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines

Karen Cisek, Project Coordinator, Department of Pathology

Angie Flesberg, Administrative Officer, Department of Surgery

Brittany Jackson, Administrative Assistant, Central Financial Services

Benjamin Kliner, Fleet & Equipment Technician, Facilities Management – Transportation

Michelle Montgomery, Wellness Advocate, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

Shari Nelson, Experiential Learning Coordinator, Experiential Learning Center

Eric Roeder, Kitchen Manager, UND Dining Services

Beth Valentine, Equity Compliance & Education Manager, Equal Opportunity & Title IX

Sara Westall, Northeast/Southeast Clinical Campus Librarian, SMHS Library Resources

Mike Wozniak, Coordinator of Leadership & Programming, Student Involvement & Parent Programs

Honorable Mention: Bear, K9 Unit, and handler Cpl. Jose Solis

Ken & Toby Baker UND Proud Award

The Staff Ken & Toby Baker UND Proud Award is presented to a UND staff member who, through extraordinary public service, has made lasting contributions to the external community, over and above the expectations of his or her regular University position.

This award was presented to Gee Abdulnur, UAS safety lead for the Northern Plains UAS Test Site.

Editor’s note: A version of this article featuring photos of all award-winners is available on the University Letter blog, courtesy of MJD Photography.

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