Chancellor Ronnie Green has been named the first recipient of the University Operations Partner of the Year Award.

The award recognizes a person or group that has demonstrated exceptional support for or collaboration with University Operations. It is an opportunity for the University Operations team to express gratitude to those individuals or units that help create a high-quality, sustainable and innovative campus experience.

The 2022 award was presented June 27 by Jim Jackson, associate vice chancellor for university operations.

“Over the past two years, Ronnie has continuously demonstrated his commitment to and respect for University Operations,” Jackson said during the presentation. “During a time of unprecedented disruption and uncertainty, his authentic communication and leadership enabled University Operations to not only effectively steward our campus’ resources through a pandemic, but reach new levels of achievement and positive impact on campus.”

The award credited Green for his participatory leadership style, which has allowed University Operations to voice expertise through the university’s decision-making processes. That leadership style has been further amplified through the guidance of Bill Nunez and Mary LaGrange, who have served as vice chancellor of business and finance under Green.

“(I) was surprised this morning with this very special recognition for our awesome and nationally-recognized University Operations team,” Green tweeted on June 27. “The real partners are Jim Jackson and all of the team for everything they do to make this great university shine.”

Other key supports from Green that were noted in the award include:

• Leading the move toward an incentive-based budget model for the university, which has led University Operations to deeper consideration about their value to campus and develop strategic plans;
• Providing regular communication through town halls, being open to feedback, changing course when needed and showing that he truly believes that every person and every interaction matters;
• Publicly acknowledging the work of University Operations, helping the campus community better value the services they provide.

Green’s selection for the award was confirmed via a unanimous vote by University Operations’ leadership team. Members include Jackson, Chris Walsh, Celeste Spier, Gabe Hampton, Emily Deeker, Estelle DeJonge, Brenda Osthus, Patrick Barrett, Jeff Culbertson, Nate Benes, Dan Carpenter, Jon Yerger and Clay Kelly.

“(Ronnie’s) works of appreciation brought positive recognition to the University Operations team and contributed to our increased sense of purpose,” Jackson said.