A round of applause for the 2022 Employee Award Winners
UBC Sauder is proud to recognize five incredible employees who have made a significant mark on the school. These talented individuals approach their roles and portfolios with dedication and enthusiasm and it shows.
These employees elevate the experiences of UBC Sauder students, alumni, and community members. They also serve as inspiration to their peers. On behalf of everyone at UBC Sauder, we extend our collective thanks to them!
Meet the 2022 award winners and read their heartfelt reactions:
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Award
Dharm Joshi (she/her)
Director, Masters Programs
Robert H. Lee Graduate School
- A founding member of the UBC Sauder Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee
- Played a pivotal role in foundational committee projects and in setting the strategic direction for EDI at UBC Sauder
- Demonstrated leadership through involvement in the Communications, Annual Report, and the Inclusive Pedagogy Working Groups
“This award means a lot to me as it highlights the crucial work being done by the UBC Sauder EDI Committee. It is an honour to be recognized by my peers for my contributions, and it drives me to continue pushing for progress and change within our programs and community. I am honoured to be a part of this journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future.”
Leader of the Year Award
Rupeela Gill (she/her)
Manager, Leadership and Annual Fund Program
Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE)
- Steered the DAE team for the Return to Campus effort in Fall 2021
- Developed EDI action steps for the DAE recruitment process and was accepted into the DAE EDI Committee
- Advanced the school’s annual and mid-level giving program and showcased admirable leadership qualities during the dean’s transition and the Evolve campaign launch event
“I am beyond honoured to receive this award. Being a leader means being a part of something bigger than yourself and having the responsibility to make an impact for and with others. This award strengthens my drive to continue to do this every day at UBC Sauder.”
Rising Star Award
Laura Storan (she/her)
Examinations Leader, Licensing
Real Estate Division
- Led projects that increased student satisfaction and improved levels of service, including the automation of the examination cancellation process
- Advanced school EDI efforts by designating inclusive washrooms at the Computerized Examination Centre (CEC)
- Demonstrated commitment to professional development, including the completion of the Managing@UBC program
“I was surprised and delighted to receive the Rising Star Award. I truly value UBC Sauder’s emphasis on responsible leadership, and hope that going forward, I can do my part to foster inclusivity and challenge inequity. Special thanks to all of my colleagues at the Real Estate Division, who have made me feel so welcome since my first days as a temporary employee, and have always shown investment in my growth.”
Lesley Wilkins Service Excellence Award – M&P
Bonnie Lee (she/her)
Alumni Engagement Officer
Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE)
- Expertly organized memorable graduation receptions
- Developed a strategy to better recognize and honour alumni volunteers
- Showcased a strategic and service-focused approach in her interactions with countless stakeholders
“This award was an unexpected and pleasant surprise which I am honoured to receive! I’m passionate about supporting students, working with volunteers, and serving the UBC Sauder community. I’m thrilled to have my work and dedication recognized. I want to thank everyone who has supported me, especially my DAE colleagues.”
Special congratulations to Bonnie on her appointment as Associate Director, Alumni Engagement, Students, and Marquee Programs at alumni UBC. We wish her all the best in the next chapter of her career!
Lesley Wilkins Service Excellence Award – M&P
Jaclyn Pho (she/her)
Associate Director, Finance
Finance and Procurement Office
- Displayed superb financial skills and in-depth knowledge of her portfolio
- Represented UBC Sauder on various UBC working groups and committees, sharing best practices that have been implemented university-wide
- Conducted over 150 training sessions tailored to individual user needs during the roll-out of software system WorkDay
“It is an incredible honour and a validation of all the hard work and dedication. It recognizes my passion and motivation to keep striving for excellence. I am only as good as the people I work with, so I want to thank all my colleagues”