2009 Research Staff Recognition Awards

Distinguished Research Administrator Award

Laura Bowden, the Administrator for the Department of Biostatistics in the School of Public Health, has been a University employee for 12 years. Bowden has consistently demonstrated a singular devotion to excellence in support of the research mission of the Department and School. She provides visible leadership in the training of staff and in the delegation of authority, with just the right level of oversight. Bowden has actively participated in the Research Administrators Instructional Network (RAIN), the Sponsored Project Advisory Team (SPA), and the eResearch Proposal Management System Department Advisory Team. Her consistent ongoing engagement by the University community is a testament to the value of her contributions and her ability to work well with her peers.

Distinguished Research Administrator Award

Linda Forsyth, the Senior Financial and Sponsored Research Specialist in the College of Engineeringis Office of Resource Planning and Management, joined the University in 1998. It is a testament to her ability and adaptability that she has become a recognized expert in research administration in a relatively short time. She represents the College of Engineering on a wide variety of research administration committees and task teams such as the eResearch Design Team and the Proposal Approval Form and Data Warehouse Team. Forsyth epitomizes the kind of leadership and competence that ensures effective stewardship of the University's research program.

Distinguished Research Administrator Award

Barbara Rice, the Research Process Senior Manager in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, is the Laboratory Administrator for the Solid State Electronics Laboratory (SSEL), the Center for Wireless Integrated Microsystems (WIMS), and the Lurie Nanofabrication Facility (LNF). Since coming to the University in 1993, Rice has grown incredibly in her capabilities, leading to her concurrent role as research administrator for SSEL, WIMS, and LNF. Her attention to detail and knowledge of the various federal and state requirements is highly valued in the complex organizational environment of the University. Rice shares her talent by participating in the Sponsored Projects Advisory Team and the Research Administrators Instructional Network, as well as Pilot Teams for Industrial Sponsors and Budget Preparation. She leads a staff that mirrors her own dedication, commitment, and excellence.

OVPR Exceptional Service Award

David Plawchan, a Managing Project Representative in the Division of Research Development and Administration, has been at the University for 44 years. Plawchan views research administration as a partnership and within the NSF area in DRDA, has set a high standard for customer service, providing mentorship and setting examples to the NSF area staff members. Faculty across the University rely on Plawchanis expertise and count on him to keep them informed on new NSF programs and any changes that might impact proposals and awards. He is well known by the NSF leadership and has developed a good reputation. Plawchan symbolizes what is really good about research administration and team effort towards a common goal.