2025 Awards for Excellence

This award recognizes a career of service to the University of Arizona and the community by someone who loves the UA and acts in the spirit of Billy Joe Varney.

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Alexandra Bussell, Department of Surgery

With nearly two decades of exceptional service to the University of Arizona, Alexandra is a pillar in the Department of Surgery, delivering expertise, mentorship, and innovation. Alexandra is “a torchbearer who leads and inspires those around her to strive for excellence.” 

Whether managing accreditation for a residency program, mentoring new staff, or delivering meals to Tucson families during the holidays, Alexandra approaches every task with grace and humility. One colleague said it best: “Alexandra’s generosity is endless… she embodies the Billy Joe Varney spirit.

Individual Awards are presented to approximately 9 members of the Classified and University Staff, regardless of their length of service, classification or pay grade. These awards are designed to recognize outstanding achievements.

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Margie Arnett
Director, CTIPH, Center for Rural Health
Nominated by Bernadette R. Cornelison

Margie’s outreach efforts strengthen university and community engagement by integrating multiple perspectives, including those from ASU, NAU, and the patient representatives. Margie’s leadership and passion shine through in everything she does. Whether mentoring others, tackling challenges with a smile, or generating innovative ideas, she makes a difference daily. One nominator shared, “Margie’s positive energy is contagious—she inspires us all.”

Kat Francisco
Senior Manager, Academic Affairs Office of the Provost & Academic Affairs

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Kat is the colleague who lifts everyone around her through her exceptional work ethic, thoughtful leadership, and warm, inclusive spirit. Kat led critical initiatives like aligning APR processes with accreditation standards, migrating over 735 programs to WSCUC systems, and introducing 151 new ones. But what truly sets Kat apart is how she lifts others along the way—mentoring colleagues, creating spaces for inclusive conversations, and even developing an AI workshop to empower staff.

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Christina Kalel
Assistant Director, Faculty Affairs College of Medicine
Nominated by Tina Johnson

Christina distinguishes herself through a remarkable blend of leadership, innovation. Her efforts to streamline the promotion and tenure processes improved operational efficiency and empowered faculty and staff, reducing approval times significantly and nurturing a spirit of collaboration. Christina’s leadership as Chair of the Commission on the Status of Women has broad impact. Her passion and commitment to excellence resonate through every 
project and interaction.





 

Danielle Pilar McNair
Lead, Student Support Services, MPHMel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health Nominated by Gary D Thompson

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Danielle is a mentor, a problem-solver, and a role model. Her ability to foster collaboration, elevate her team, and bring innovative solutions to the table makes a difference. Danielle’s students put it best: “She is the best advisor that a college student can truly ask for. She really has helped me get to where I want to be and the diploma that I want to graduate with. She is a perfect candidate 
for an Award for Excellence.”

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Kaitlin Dariel Trujillo Salvo
Senior Academic Advisor
Veterinary Sciences

Dari is a visionary whose commitment to excellence inspires everyone around her." Her ability to tackle complex challenges with innovative solutions has set her apart, making her an invaluable asset to the team and organization. Dari tirelessly assists students to find scholarships, navigate financial aid and find the resources they need to be successful in their academic careers.

Liz Sandoval
Director, Office of Curricular Affairs

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Liz is “a fantastic teammate, always supportive and cheerful, and exceptional in everything she does.” Whether she’s streamlining complex academic approval processes or developing new automated workflows that enhance university operations, Liz is always leading with purpose and positivity. Liz doesn’t just manage processes—she transforms them. From reducing program approval timelines by up to 75% to ensuring faculty and students alike have a voice in decision-making, Liz leads with compassion and clarity.

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Paul Valdez
Associate Director, Startup Wildcats Tech Launch Arizona Student Ventures

Owing to Paul’s vision, leadership and mentorship, Tech Launch has successfully built a student-led team that is fulfilling the needs of our campus community for an entrepreneurial ecosystem and providing viable solutions to campus problems. Whether working with engineering faculty to recruit technical founders or with student affairs to expand outreach, Paul brings people together to drive meaningful change. Paul inspires action when others are unsure where to start.

 

Silvia Xu
Assistant Dean, Finance & Administration
College of Nursing

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Silvia's expertise in financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation has been instrumental to the College’s ability to grow and thrive. She has played a pivotal role in ensuring fiscal stability while also positioning the College for long-term sustainability. Silvia’s respectful and professional interactions create an environment where all colleagues feel valued. Silvia’s work and spirit make the College of Nursing what it is today.

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Hayri Yildirim
Director, Facilities Planning and Management
University of Arizona Libraries

Hayri is a dedicated and exceptional professional whose contributions make significant impact. Hayri played a vital role in the planning and construction of the UA Student Success District, finding creative solutions even in challenging situations. Beyond his technical skills, Hayri is a valued mentor. He shows generously shares knowledge and fosters collaborative environments. To quote, "His guidance has been instrumental in my professional growth, and I have no doubt that his influence will continue to shape the future of our industry."

The team award is presented to a team primarily comprised of Classified University Staff and tasked with a specific project or function.

Main Campus Evaluation Team

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Brenda Ayon
Victoria Vindiola Sicre
Beatriz Gutierrez
Amanda Kimberly
Abril Olea

This five-member team processes over 60,000 applications annually, exceeding expectations. Their efficiency is remarkable, with each evaluator averaging 49.2 applications per day—far surpassing the normal 35—while maintaining an impressive 98-99% accuracy rate. Their commitment to the university community extends beyond their core responsibilities, as they volunteer at key student events such as Admitted Student Days and Destination Arizona and provide critical support in financial aid services.

SPLS/ENVS/WRRC Business Team

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Jennifer Rascon
Bonnie Gilmore
Kevin Teres
Maxine Martinez
Nic Propp

The SPLS/ENVS/WRRC Business Team displays innovative problem-solving, dedication, and teamwork. They have consistently taken on complex challenges with determination and a solutions-oriented mindset, ensuring that projects are delivered with outstanding quality. Their collaboration and ability to adapt have been key to driving success. As one nomination noted, “They don’t just meet expectations—they redefine them, pushing for better results every time.” Their contributions have truly elevated the entire organization.

The Department Award recognizes a University of Arizona department for excellence in the management of its people and resources creating a culture of learning and a satisfying work environment.

Indigenous Resilience Center (IRes)

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IRes operates on the foundational values of Relationship, Respect, Reciprocity, and Responsibility. 
As one nominator shared, “Being in IRes means being in community.” Their leadership has created a culture of engagement and a dynamic environment where each voice is key to the work, regardless of title. IRes supports personal and professional growth while centering knowledge systems and community partnerships.