COS Outstanding Staff Excellence

UCF has recently recognized five staff members for the College of Sciences Outstanding Staff Awards.

Dani Draper from the psychology department, Nicholas Schenk from the political science department, David Bradford from the physics department, Luis Mena from the Nicholson School of Communication and Monika Crittenden from the physics department were all recognized. Each recipient was awarded $250.

Bradford said that in his over 21 years of being employed by UCF he has accomplished so much. Starting as a computer repair technician before a computer was on every desk and the term ‘e-mail’ was not a part of the everyday vocabulary he has seen his role grow. When he first started there were only about a dozen computers and well over 100 when he transitioned to his current position of Engineer.

Currently he maintains a machining facility which directly supports the research activities of the physics department and is capable of producing precision research components and assemblies from a variety of materials.

“Of all the tasks I’ve done at UCF, the one I enjoy most is working with students that are doing research and helping them progress toward their goals,” Bradford said. “Some have presented me with very challenging machining projects which always excites me because I like to solve puzzles!”

Draper said that she was pleasantly surprised and very appreciative upon hearing that she received the award. Not only has she had the opportunity to advance within her department, she has developed working relationships with her fellow employees, supervisors, and students.

“What makes me feel most accomplished is the positive feedback I receive from students for something I enjoy doing:  guiding them through our program, with the assistance of great faculty and coworkers, in order that they may achieve their ultimate academic goals,” she said.