At WNMU, we believe that excellence is a journey of continuous dedication and improvement. The Presidential Leadership Award is bestowed upon a University Staff employee, selected by the President, who has exhibited exceptional leadership qualities, demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation and positive change, and is recognized for their dedication and commitment to service excellence to the University, Colleagues, Students, and Community.
Their willingness to go above and beyond creates an environment where everyone feels valued and supported and elevates our institution through their unwavering commitment to service excellence. By recognizing their exceptional contributions, we celebrate those who emulate Mustangs serving Mustangs and who truly make a difference in the lives of our students, faculty, and staff.
Eligibility
- All full-time/part-time staff employees in a regular benefits-eligible position
- Employee must have a minimum of three consecutive years of service at WNMU as of September 1st of the current year
- See program details for exceptions & additional requirements
Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate outstanding leadership in any or all of the following areas:
- Staff member is an excellent role model and promotes a work environment that is respectful, collegial, and supportive for themselves and those around them.
- Staff member positively influences the work environment, fosters cooperation, achieves goals, and overcomes obstacles, while carrying out employment responsibilities modeling Service Excellence principles.
- Staff member promotes an ethical work environment and ensures organizational compliance to the best of their ability.
- Staff member represents Western New Mexico University externally through community engagement, service, external organizational leadership, or other outreach; creates a better understanding of the university to those who are not necessarily a part of our immediate university “community.”
- Staff member demonstrates a commitment to supporting the University’s mission, vision, and core values, service to students, colleagues and the community.
- Staff member continually develops partnerships both internally and externally, beyond ambassadorship programs that engage students, faculty, and staff members.
- Staff members are a positive advocate for the university showing the true spirit of the WNMU culture.
- Staff member consistently puts the needs of others before themselves by giving their time, talents, and resources to support the growth and development of the WNMU community.
- Staff member communicates and contributes efficiently and openly with other members of the team while keeping the team on track to meet deadlines.
- Staff member brings their own experience, ambitions, and specialist skills to their work in a collaborative manner, while offering support and keeping an open mind.
- Staff member should be organized and able to use critical thinking skills within the department or partnerships across divisions that face challenges or issues to achieve a shared goal.
- The individual’s overall performance has increased the productivity or efficiency of a division, department, or team by exceeding expectations and by performing at the highest levels of quality.
- The individuals have developed new and/or improved processes resulting in enhanced efficiency and cost savings.
- The individual has the ability to adapt to change in policy and procedures of the workplace with a positive attitude.
- Staff member focuses on inspiring and motivating colleagues to achieve their full potential, both individually and collectively, to reach a shared vision or goal.
- Staff member inspires their colleagues through their vision, charisma, and ability to communicate effectively. They also challenge and empower their colleagues to think creatively, take risks, and develop their skills and abilities.
- Staff member encourages a sense of ownership and commitment among their colleagues, and they work to create a positive organizational culture that fosters innovation and growth.
- Overall, transformational leadership is a people-centered approach to leadership that aims to transform individuals and the University to achieve greater success and impact.
Award Information
- Nominations will open in September
- The Employee Recognition Committee/WNMU Cabinet reviews in October/November
- All monetary award deductions will include all applicable taxes and withholdings
- Award recipient will be announced at the January WELCOME BACK Convocation
Full Program Details
Click here for the full program details which include description, eligibility, and nomination/selection process.
Self Nominating?
We are accepting self-nominations. Please carefully review the program details prior to submission. Self-nominees must meet all criteria and have nomination documentation that meets all guidelines per the program details.
Nomination Form
Nomination window is open September 7th – September 28, 2024
You will have 2 options!
- OPTION 1: Click on the Online Nomination Form button below to complete in its entirety and submit your nomination online.
- OPTION 2: Click on the Downloadable Nomination Form button to download a fillable form to your device, which will give you the ability to make edits. Complete all sections and when finished, email the completed form to awards@wnmu.edu for processing. All forms must be typed and legible and in digital format.
If you have any issues, please email us at this same address.
WNMU 2023 - 2024 Award Recipient
Michael Acosta – Interim Chief Information Officer
