For the second year in a row, Gull Appreciation Day brought the Endicott community together not only to celebrate another successful academic year but also to recognize the faculty and staff whose everyday contributions help shape the heart of the Nest.
From the early morning staff preparing campus for the day ahead to the faculty and employees creating meaningful experiences for students behind the scenes, Endicott is built on dedication, compassion, and connection. The Excellence Awards, launched in 2025 by the Human Resources team, were created to honor individuals whose leadership, service, collaboration, and commitment to community help make Endicott a place where people feel supported, valued, and at home.
Now in its second year, the Excellence Awards were presented during Gull Appreciation Day alongside the College’s long-standing Milestone Awards, bringing together celebrations of service, achievement, and community spirit. Each honoree received public recognition from peers and leadership, along with a monetary gift, as a symbol of the College’s gratitude.
“Behind every successful student experience and every meaningful campus moment are staff members whose dedication, care, and leadership make Endicott what it is,” said Kate White, Vice President of Human Resources. “The Excellence Awards give us an opportunity to pause and recognize those contributions while celebrating the people who help our community thrive each day.”
Earlier this spring, faculty and staff were invited to submit nominations for four award categories: Collaboration Champion, Service & Dedication, Inspiring Leadership, and the newest category, Culture of Belonging. More than 100 nominations were submitted to the Human Resources team, marking a significant increase from the program’s inaugural year. Many included heartfelt stories and examples of colleagues going above and beyond to support students, coworkers, and the broader campus community.
“Last year’s inaugural awards showed just how eager our community is to celebrate one another, and we hope this tradition continues to grow as a meaningful reflection of the appreciation and pride shared across campus,” said White.
The Collaboration Champion Award, which recognizes individuals who excel in fostering teamwork and collaboration across departments, was presented to Donny Femino, Assistant Vice President of Research & Planning, and Maria Wong, Associate Dean of the School of Social Sciences, Communication, & Humanities (SSCH).
Femino and Wong were recognized for their collaborative co-leadership during a significant campus-wide initiative that required thoughtful coordination, partnership, and inclusive engagement across the College community. From the earliest planning stages, they approached the work as a shared institutional effort grounded in trust, communication, and collaboration. Through their leadership and partnership, they helped create a process that made colleagues across campus feel informed, supported, and actively included.
The Service & Dedication Award, which honors individuals who exemplify unwavering commitment to service, safety, and the well-being of the campus community, was awarded to Alda Goulart, Housekeeper, Facilities Management, and George Sherman, Associate Dean of Admission.
Goulart was recognized for her reliability, kindness, and behind-the-scenes contributions that help create a welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff each day. Sherman was honored for his longstanding dedication to students and families and for the enthusiasm and care he brings to the admission experience and broader Endicott community.
The Inspiring Leadership Award, presented to leaders who motivate and guide others with vision, integrity, and support, was awarded to Sam Alexander, Associate Dean of the SSCH, and RJ Tolan, Head Coach, Men’s Ice Hockey / Gameday Management, Athletics.
Alexander was recognized for his supportive leadership style, mentorship, and commitment to fostering collaboration and academic excellence. Tolan was honored for the energy, positivity, and dedication he brings to students, colleagues, and the broader campus community both on and off the ice.
New this year, the Culture of Belonging Award recognizes individuals who consistently enhance the workplace through inclusive, respectful, and supportive behavior. The award was presented to Rimonda Maroun, Associate Professor in the SSCH, and Corie Quill, Senior Director, Residence Life.
Maroun was recognized for creating inclusive learning environments where students feel heard, supported, and empowered. Quill was honored for her dedication to student support, community-building, and fostering a strong sense of belonging throughout campus life.
As the Excellence Awards continue to grow, they reflect the appreciation, pride, and strong sense of community that define Endicott. More than a celebration of accomplishments, the awards serve as a reminder of the people whose everyday efforts make the Nest feel like home.
Learn more about the Excellence Awards and Endicott’s Human Resources initiatives.