Jeff Rances wins 2009-2010 Principal Exemplary Staff Employee of the Year

The campus recently announced, on behalf of Chancellor Marye Anne Fox, the names of the ten Professional and Support Staff members who are being recognized as the 2009-2010 UC San Diego Exemplary Staff Employee of the Year Award recipients. Our very own Jeff Rances, Admissions/MS Coordinator, has won the highest award based on criteria communicated in the 2009-2010 Exemplary Staff Employee of the Year Award Program notice. The Review Committee, consisting of representatives from the Chancellor's Office, each vice chancellor area and the UCSD Medical Center, evaluated all eligible nominations submitted by members of the campus community. We are greatly honored for Mr. Rances' selection as it recognizes his exemplary service and significant contributions to our department impacting UC San Diego and the community at large. Mr. Rances joined the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry in 2008 and during his short tenure he has made a significant and direct impact in the areas of diversity and graduate wellness/community. His accomplishments and service go above and beyond his administrative responsibilities through his personal approach to making an inclusive environment for a diverse population. His vested commitment to diversity was instrumental in recruiting a higher number of talented underrepresented students into our program (and an increase in the overall admissions pool) during the current admission cycle. His commitment to diversity also secured campus fellowships for underrepresented students which represented departmental savings towards graduate student support. Additionally, he is working on a specific pilot program that will bring current students together across disciplines for talks and workshops that will strive to improve climate and race-relations. The pilot program will also aim to assist in the retention of those traditionally underrepresented students by providing out-of-the-classroom training through mentorship for success in graduate study, research and beyond. Mr. Rances has become a key staff in making a difference in overall student wellness and community. He has mobilized and inspired our students in common interests to provide an environment that will cater to their success. Overall, Jeff's hard work, dedication and "best interest at heart" makes him the best the University has to offer during difficult economic times. His genuine goodwill has made the department a better place. We are definitely honored and lucky to have him as an employee of the University. Please join us in congratulating Jeff on this wonderful recognition as the Principal Exemplary Staff Employee of the Year.