The Curators' Outstanding Staff Awards are presented by the University of Missouri Board of Curators to recognize exemplary staff members and their significant contributions across the University of Missouri System. The awards honor individuals whose dedication, service and collaborative spirit strengthens their campus, advances the university's mission and enriches the experiences of students, patients, faculty, staff and communities throughout Missouri.

Recipient & Award Amount

Recipients receive a $1,000 gift and are recognized during the Board of Curators meeting on their home campus. The award will be given to up to six staff members annually:

  • Three awards for staff at University of Missouri-Columbia, including MU Health Care and UM System staff.
  • One award each for staff at University of Missouri-Kansas City, Missouri University of Science and Technology and University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

At the conclusion of each academic year, each chancellor, CEO and the president may recommend exemplary staff members from their respective institutions for consideration by the Board of Curators. 

Each university maintains its own nomination and selection process. Recipients are selected based on their:

  • Impact to the institution
  • Commitment to customer service
  • Demonstrated excellence and collaborative spirit

Award Recipients, 2026

  • Jeff Liptak, MU, Craft Service Maintenance Associate Senior, Energy Management
  • Ashley Mitchell, MU, Associate Director of Student Support Services, Admissions
  • Amanda Simpson, MU Health Care, Care Team Associate–Clinical, Surgical Intensive Care 
  • Johanna Comes, UMKC, Family Nurse Practitioner, Roo Wellness Health Services
  • Kimber Crull, Missouri S&T, Strategic Communications Consultant, Marketing and Communications
  • Tamara (Tami) Davenport, UMSL, Community College Relationship Manager, Admissions