Staff Recognition Awards

In 2026, NUSAC is launching an inaugural staff recognition program to celebrate exemplary staff, recognizing their contributions across the University. Previously, Northwestern University’s Staff Advisory Council recognized one staff member per quarter as part of Northwestern’s Most Valuable Personnel program.

All faculty and staff are eligible to submit nominations for staff members, irrespective of their role or connection to the nominee. Staff are unable to nominate themselves, and any nominations submitted after the award deadline will not be considered.

For more information on eligibility and criteria, please review our FAQs listed below.

Rising Star Awards

The Rising Star Award recognizes two rising contributors, one exempt and one nonexempt, who have been in their roles for one to three years who are making a significant impact at Northwestern through their commitment and initiative.

Nominees for this award are:

• Rapidly growing within their position and demonstrating success

• Displaying high potential

• Making positive change

• Proactively solving problems

Campus Stewardship Award

The Campus Stewardship Award recognizes a frontline staff member who supports daily operations to strengthen the campus community through exceptional care, reliability, and service.

Nominees for this award:

• Take ownership of responsibilities and follow through on their commitments

• Anticipate needs and solve challenges in real time

• Are a trusted resource and dependable partner

• Communicate with care and respect

Community Builder Award

The Community Builder Award recognizes a staff member who strengthens the campus community by fostering connections and modeling the ideals of collaboration by elevating and empowering others.

Nominees for this award:

• Contribute to a culture where colleagues work together toward a shared purpose  

• Build relationships based on mutual trust, shared responsibility, and collaborative problem-solving 

• Serve as a bridge-builder who nurtures connections across Northwestern

• Foster a sense of belonging

Idea to Action Award

The Idea to Action Award recognizes a staff member whose curiosity, initiative, and follow-through led to real progress—someone who transforms “what if” into “what’s next.”

Nominees for this award:

• Generated an idea that came to fruition and positively impacted their area

• Identified opportunity for change and mobilized others to address the challenge

• Took initiative to design practical solutions which improved workflow, services, and/or the campus experience

• Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving skills