Erskine B. Bowles Staff Service Award

Nomination process

All university employees are encouraged to nominate a deserving colleague for this award.

Submission period: June 15-July 31, 2026

• Provide a statement that highlights the candidate’s accomplishments and describes how the candidate contributes to the overall welfare of their university organization and their surrounding community.
• Answer open-ended questions to provide evidence the candidate meets the selection criteria.
• You may also provide additional letters or documents of support from peers, supervisor, students, campus administration, local media or community members, and/or representatives from local businesses/organizations.
• All nominations are shared with the nominee upon submission.

Selection criteria

• Must be a permanent staff member (SHRA or EHRA) of any of the 17 UNC constituent institutions, the UNC System Office, or a recognized University affiliate
• Exemplifies excellence in their professional interactions and customer service within their university employment
• Provides extraordinary service to their campus and UNC System outside their job description
• Provides exemplary service to their surrounding community

What recipients receive

• A memento
• An award of $1,000
• Recognition from the Staff Assembly and UNC System leadership