VCU news

By Joan Tupponce

The 50th annual service recognition celebration reception for faculty and staff of Virginia Commonwealth University and VCU Health System took place in person on April 25 at the Siegel Center after being virtual for the past two years.

“I’m pleased that we’re colleagues united by the mission to serve, educate, mentor, and heal,” said VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. in his remarks. “We are making VCU a truly public research university and health care system, adapting to changing needs. I’m grateful for your work across divisions, departments and campuses to create a unified place that’s known for quality of care, compassion and high-quality service.”

The event celebrated faculty and staff with five to 60 years of service. It recognized almost 2,900 individuals from VCU and VCU Health who reached milestones from Oct. 1, 2020, to Dec. 31, 2021. Of the 2,900, 264 had 30 or more years of service, and 21 people celebrated 45 years of service.

Meanwhile, Enrique Gerszten, M.D. emeritus professor of pathology and director of the Paleopathology Research Laboratory in the VCU School of Medicine, is celebrating 60 years of service at the health system.

“It was an honor to start the ride as a resident in pathology and end as a part-time emeritus professor,” he said. “All the deans and chairs with whom I have had the privilege to work, although with different styles, made important contributions to the School of Medicine.”

Everyone recognized at the event has been integral to VCU’s success, said Valerie Robnolt, Ph.D., president of the Faculty Senate who spoke at the event along with Saher Randhawa, president of the Staff Senate.

“Your meaningful contributions every day positively impact the lives of so many. Thank you for your service,” she said.

Service awards

Employees recognized Monday include annual recipients of the Dorris Douglas Budd Award, the President’s Award of Excellence, the President’s Outstanding Achievement Award and the Danny Woodward President’s Award for Service Excellence.

Dorris Douglas Budd Award

Crystal Finegan, Medical College of Virginia Physicians (VCU) Trauma Program

President’s Award of Excellence

Joseph Kuttenkuler, University Marketing

President’s Outstanding Achievement Award

Tina Cunningham, Research Administration, Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation

Jane Emerson, Clinical Operations, University Student Health Services

Danny Woodward President’s Award for Service Excellence

Caitilin Golob, Surgery Administration, Medical College of Virginia Physicians (VCU)

Ann-marie Taranto, HR Business Partner, School of Medicine