The USG Board of Advisors’ Kendall Service Awards are presented each year to one faculty member and one staff member who have performed exceptionally in supporting student success at the Universities at Shady Grove. Nominations are accepted from students, faculty, and staff and the awards are presented during the annual Student Achievement and Leadership Breakfast.
Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Jennifer Todd
 Dr. Todd with two of her students at the Student Achievement and Leadership Breakfast. Left to Right: UMCP Public Health Student, Zofia Klosowska, Dr. Jennifer Todd, and UMCP Public Health Student, Vana Derderian. |
The 2012 Kendall Excellence in Teaching Award was presented to Dr. Jennifer Todd, Program Director and Professor, University of Maryland, College Park, Public Health Science at USG, for her demonstrated commitment to students and student success through the promotion of high academic achievement. Dr. Todd participates in professional and leadership development with students and advances the educational and career goals for all students at USG.
“Dr. Todd is an exceptional educator and mentor, whose efforts impact her students academically, professionally, and personally,” said Dr. Stew Edelstein, USG Executive Director. “She has developed courses which expose her students to the latest and most innovative approaches in the field, to ensure that they graduate as competitive and well-rounded public health professionals.”
Many students praise Dr. Todd for the individualized attention they receive and for her dedication to their futures. “She was very supportive in her role of introducing me into the field of public health, and ultimately, the reason why I chose to enroll at USG,” said one student.
Another student commended Dr. Todd’s teaching methods, nothing that, “Dr. Todd has really changed my life. I have gone back and referenced the materials we covered in her classes numerous times because they are directly applicable to my job and my internship – teaching practical skills is priceless, and that is what Dr. Todd does.”
Outstanding Service to Students: Ilona Faulks
 Ilona Faulks receives her award. Left to right: Vice Chair, USG Board of Advisors, Mike Knapp, Ilona Faulks, USG Board of Advisors member, Gregory Wims, and USG Executive Director, Dr. Stewart Edelstein. |
The 2012 Kendall Outstanding Service to Students Award was presented to Ilona Faulks, Daytime Office Supervisor, USG Office of Student Services, for her demonstrated commitment to students through high quality support services. As an integral member of the Office of Student Services’ team, Ilona is an active participant in student life and supports the development of professional and leadership goals. Ilona’s outstanding customer service encourages students to, not only use USG’s services, but increases their interest and commitment in being a part of the USG family.
“Ilona goes above and beyond in any given task,” said Dr. Stewart Edelstein, USG Executive Director. “She thrives on making people happy – not only is she good at what she does, she also has a great caring attitude.”
Nominations for Ilona described her as dedicated, determined, helpful, and kind. One student noted that Ilona’s commitment to service is worthy of reward. “Ilona is truly inspiring, and she deserves to be rewarded for her dedication to USG. Ilona does an amazing job with the students – she cares about each and every one of us.”
One coworker praised Ilona’s reliability and commitment to her team. “I have worked with Ilona a lot throughout the years. I know I can always count on her to be thorough and exceptionally detail oriented. In addition, Ilona has shown herself to be a person of character, demonstrating a strong work ethic, professionalism and virtually unsurpassed dedication.”