The UNCG Staff Senate is pleased to announce that nominations for the 2026 University Staff Excellence Awards and the Ezekiel Robinson Staff Emeritus Award will be open through March 1.

Staff Excellence Awards

With the Staff Excellence Awards, UNC Greensboro recognizes up to two permanent SHRA or EHRA non-faculty staff members each year who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the University. Recipients each receive $1,000. Eligible nominees must be in good standing and have completed at least two years of service at UNCG by the nomination deadline.

Nominations may be submitted by staff, faculty, supervisors, administrators, and students. Fill out the nomination form here.

Nominations should speak to one or more of the following areas:

• Devotion to Duty: Exceptional service and dedication beyond normal job expectations that significantly enhances support for UNCG or the broader community.
• Innovation: Development of new or improved work methods, practices, or initiatives that advance the mission of the University.
• Service: Outstanding contributions through committee work or representing UNCG in civic or professional organizations.
• Human Relations: Notable efforts that create or support a positive working or learning environment.
• Other Achievements: Acts of service or accomplishment not covered above—such as safety, heroism, or extraordinary contributions.

When submitting a nomination for the University Staff Excellence Award, please include a letter of support that highlights the qualities that make your nominee stand out. Be sure to share specific examples that demonstrate their exceptional service, dedication, and impact across our campus community.

Ezekiel Robinson Staff Emeritus Award

This award honors a retired staff member whose long-term service, leadership, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the UNCG community. Current employees, faculty members, administrators or students are encouraged to submit nominations for retired staff whose contributions exemplify excellence in service and commitment to the University’s mission.

When submitting a nomination, please include a detailed explanation of why you believe the former UNCG staff member deserves the award. Your nomination should clearly describe the individual’s lasting impact on the university and the meritorious nature of their service. Please provide as much context and detail as possible so the review committee can fully understand the scope and significance of the nominee’s legacy. Strong nominations typically include:

• Key achievements and accomplishments during their tenure at UNCG
• Significant contributions to their department, division, or the wider campus community
• Leadership, innovation, or service that strengthened university operations, advanced initiatives, or improved the student, faculty, or staff experience
• Notable recognitions or accolades, formal or informal, that underscore the individual’s excellence
• Evidence of sustained commitment to the mission and values of UNCG
• Any other details illustrating why the nominee’s career reflects the distinction and honor associated with being granted Emeritus status

This award is named in honor of Ezekiel “Zeke” Robinson, a foundational figure in UNCG’s early history. Robinson was hired soon after the State Normal and Industrial School opened in 1892 and served the institution for 52 years, performing critical roles such as managing the African American support staff, ringing the campus bell, delivering mail, assisting with state dinners, and serving as porter for three college presidents.

He witnessed the University’s transformation, from horses to automobiles and from oil lamps to electricity, as the student body grew from 200 to more than 2,200. Robinson passed away on December 1, 1960, at the age of 93. At the time of his death, he was the last surviving member of the faculty and staff from the school’s first year.

His legacy of dedication, service, and steady presence continues to inspire generations of staff who help shape the University we know today.

Staff Senate looks forward to sharing the outstanding work of current and retired staff members with the rest of the community.