In recognition of accomplishments and dedication during a career at Trent University that has spanned nearly three decades and has covered many positions and departments, Deborah Earle, a program administrator in the Concurrent Education Program and the Department of Social Work, has been named the 2015 recipient of the Nancy E. Simmons Smith Staff (NESS) Award of Excellence.

“It is a great honour to learn about the NESS award. I truly enjoy my work at Trent. There are so many wonderful staff and faculty here and the students truly are incredible,” Ms. Earle said in response to receiving the award. “It is a pleasure to assist the students on their journey. My personal journey at Trent has been amazing - a student then alumni, a don, and now a 26-year employee. I look forward to many more wonderful years.”

Recognizing a long-standing need for a staff recognition award, the University established the NESS Award in 2008 to recognize non-academic staff members who demonstrate excellence and exceptional commitment to Trent. With the support of an endowed fund, supported by generous donations, the Award is named in honour of Ms. Simmons Smith, University secretary and secretary of the Board of Governors from 1987 to 2008. Ms. Earle was presented with the award at the end-of-the-year Board luncheon on June 23.

Ms. Earle’s nominators were glowing in their praise for the Trent graduate and long-time employee.

“She has this amazing ability to simplify an issue, take charge if required, and encompass all involved in the project, encouraging their participation, recognizing their weaknesses, and drawing on their strengths,” one of her peers wrote.

Another colleague added: “Deb’s positive reinforcement that students, faculty and staff all play an important role in the continued success of Trent as an educational institution, is only surpassed by the fact that fairness, respect, consistency and integrity are the basis to view any activity in which one enters.”

In a letter to Ms. Earle, Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor at Trent, noted her achievements and wrote: “The time and energy that you commit to your work, above and beyond requirements of your position are exemplary and is referred to with enthusiasm by your nominators.”

For more information about the Nancy E. Simmons Smith Award of Excellence, please visit www.trentu.ca/nessaward.

Posted on Tuesday, June 23, 2015.