Andrews University's faculty and staff were joined by the Board of Trustees for their annual faculty and staff service awards presentation, followed by a reception in the Howard Performing Arts Center on Mon., Mar. 3.

Six faculty members were honored with the Daniel A. Augsburger Excellence in Teaching Award, an award recognizing faculty whose teaching reflects the high standards of excellence modeled by Augsburger in his 60 years of teaching at Andrews University. This year's recipients were Richard Davidson, professor of Old Testament interpretation and chair of the Old Testament Department; Stephen Thorman, professor of computer science and physics; Gary Gifford, associate professor of leadership and educational administration; Armand Poblete, instructor of information systems; Margarita Mattingly, professor and chair of physics; and Carlos Flores, professor of music.

The Spiritual Life Award, which is bestowed upon any employee who has made a significant contribution to the spiritual life on campus, was presented to Jane Sabes, associate professor of history and political science. Described by her nominators as an ever-strong spiritual influence on students and colleagues alike, Sabes, who was surprised by the announcement, said, "I thought I was coming tonight to help pass out brochures!"

Three staff members were recognized with the Staff Excellence in Service Award. The award is given "in recognition of outstanding service to the university, the church, and the community, and for demonstrating, by precept and example, a Christ-centered life." This year's recipients were Lori Guerrero, dispatch supervisor for the Department of Public Safety; Jillian Panigot, an administrative assistant in the Physical Therapy Department; and Shelly Erhard, guest relations coordinator for the Office of Enrollment Management.

Erhard, who was affectionately referred to as Director of First Impressions in a video tribute, says her word creed is, "To be the first friendly face that makes someone feel welcome when they come to Andrews University."

Greg Offenbeck was given special recognition for his 30 years of continuous service with Andrews University.

The awards portion of the evening concluded with recognition of employees with five, ten, 15, 20 and 25 years of service with the University.

The evening also included various musical selections performed by Justin Jeffery, Juan Carlos-Rodriguez, Chenoa Jimenez and the University Singers conducted by Stephen Zork.

Keri Suarez, media relations specialist, University Relations