Time to make nominations for fall Make a Difference awards

Make a difference
The Make a Difference logo.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Nominations for the fall round of Western Michigan University's semiannual Make a Difference awards are due by Friday, Oct. 31.

Make a Difference is a campuswide peer-to-peer program that recognizes staff members for their accomplishments and daily investment of energy and creativity. It features semiannual and annual awards presented to non-faculty employees who provide exceptional service to the University.

Every fall and spring, semiannual awards are presented to a maximum of 15 people. Those selected for the accolade receive a before-tax $300 prize and a certificate, are recognized at a special reception, and may be nominated for one of four Annual Make a Difference awards that carry a before-tax $1,200 prize.

The annual award goes to each year's most outstanding semiannual award winners—the best of the best.

There has been a slight change in guidelines for repeat award winners starting this academic year. Employees may still win the award more than once, but are limited to one award every five academic years. This guideline applies to both semiannual and annual award winners. In the past, employees could receive the semiannual award once per academic year and the annual award only one time.

Eligible employee groups

Nominations for Make a Difference awards are accepted for individuals from the following five employee groups:

  • Administrative Professional Association
  • American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
  • Michigan State Employees Association
  • Police Officers Association
  • Professional Support Staff Organization

Nomination instructions and forms are available year round at wmich.edu/makeadifference. That website also lists previous award winners.

For more news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.