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Employee Recognition and Awards Programs

Recognizing the best in our employees

FOA departments and leaders celebrate the contributions of UC Davis employees to recognize excellence, dedication, innovation and effort. Some FOA staff members work directly with campus customers and others work more behind-the-scenes, but regardless of position, each FOA staff member has an opportunity to make a positive impact on the UC Davis community.

Read more below about employee recognition and awards programs offered to UC Davis employees within FOA:

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Employee Recognition
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FOA Excellence Awards

Help us identify, recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of our FOA colleagues. Nominate a colleague for these prestigious annual awards!

Customer Service Champion Award

The Customer Service Champion (CSC) Award program celebrates Finance, Operations and Administration employees who go “above and beyond” in delivering outstanding service to our campus community.

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On The Spot Award

The On The Spot Award recognizes FOA employees who demonstrate exceptional effort, initiative, or creativity in the moment

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STAR Awards

STAR Awards provide recognition for employee or teams who have demonstrated exceptional performance.

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Recognition Tips for Every Employee Level

Recognition is a powerful tool in building a positive workplace culture. Here are some practical tips, suitable for employees at all levels.
 

Provide regular, real-time acknowledgment for big and small achievements
  • Be intentional about offering spontaneous recognition. 
  • Utilize team meetings for collective awards and social shout-outs.
  • Bring teams together with refreshments for informal recognition.
Tailor recognition to individual preferences
  • Some employees prefer public praise, while others value a quiet, personal thank you.
  • Utilize different methods like handwritten notes, verbal praise, group emails or recognition stories in the Digest.
  • Offer flexible rewards such as gift cards or other tokens of appreciation.
  • Celebrate milestones, such as years of service, to show employees they are valued.
Recognition should happen at all levels
  • Create channels where employees can acknowledge one another’s contributions.
  • Consider nominating your peers for awards. Check out FOA’s page for Employee Recognition programs. 
Provide leadership exposure and development opportunities
  • Offer professional development opportunities and mentorship programs.
  • Validate expertise by involving subject matter experts in relevant discussions.
  • Thoughtfully include employees in meetings for inclusiveness and acknowledgment.
  • Arrange for direct interactions with leadership for high performers and publicly commend notable contributions.

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