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Recognizing Excellence: Undergraduate Services Team receives Engineering Award of Recognition

The Undergraduate Services (UGS) Team at Western Engineering has been awarded the 2024 Engineering Award of Recognition for their outstanding commitment to enhancing the student experience. Selected through a wave of thoughtful nominations from both students and staff, the UGS Team was described as the “backbone of undergraduate student life” — a team whose influence is quietly felt in nearly every student milestone, challenge and success.

Whether it’s a first-year student searching for direction, an upper-year student needing academic accommodations, or a parent calling with concern for their child, the UGS Team is the first point of contact — and often the most memorable one.

This exceptional team includes:

·      Nicole Sansone – Manager

·      Alexandra Bannon – Academic Advisor

·      Diana Ali – Academic Advisor

·      Karen Murray – Academic Advisor

·      Nicole Harding – Academic Advisor

·      Akash Yadav – Academic Advising Coordinator

·      Monique Lewis – Academic Advising Coordinator

·      Ibrahim Abdulmonem – Program Coordinator

·      Abby Al-Takriti – Program Coordinator

·      Nathalia Acosta – Curriculum Specialist

·      Sara Hanna – Student Wellness Counsellor

“They are the heart of our Faculty,” one nominator wrote. “They serve thousands of students each year, yet they somehow make each person feel seen and valued.”

For the team, the recognition was meaningful after a year of hard work and new challenges. “It's easy to get lost in the work from day to day, but to see it all recognized in this big picture way and know it's making a difference feels very rewarding,” one team member shared.

Housed in the Spencer Engineering Building, the Undergraduate Services Office is more than an administrative hub. For many students, it’s a safe space — a place where they’re not just another number. Multiple nominations described the team’s warmth, empathy and unwavering dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all, regardless of background or academic standing.

“They remember students by name,” a staff member shared. “They remember stories, concerns and accomplishments. Students know they’re cared for here.”

Beyond the call of duty

The nomination letters praised the team not just for its work ethic but also for the emotional intelligence and initiative it brings to everything it does. Staff described the UGS team as “reliable,” “professional” and “willing to do whatever it takes” to support students and colleagues alike.

“Not only do they answer questions, but they also help students think critically, make informed decisions and take ownership of their academic paths,” one faculty member wrote.

The team is also praised for its deep institutional knowledge, which allows it to anticipate challenges and suggest proactive solutions before problems escalate. “They’re always thinking one step ahead,” one nominator shared. They don't wait for problems to reach them—they look for ways to prevent them.”

An inclusive and supportive environment

One of the strongest recurring themes across the nominations was how the UGS Team fosters a sense of belonging.

“Many of our students come in overwhelmed — academically, emotionally, even socially. The team is a lifeline,” said one staff member. “They not only solve problems but often give students the hope and confidence to keep going.”

That same sense of support is echoed within the team itself. “Without the support of our incredible leadership — Stephanie [Tigert] and Nicole [Sansone] — and the ongoing, daily encouragement from the entire team, I would not have had the confidence or mental capacity to tackle so many differing situations in my first year,” said Lewis. “Our office is a safe space for staff, faculty and students alike where no question is too dumb and no statement is too silly.”

A collaborative spirit

Beyond student-facing work, the UGS Team plays a key behind-the-scenes role in the smooth operation of many academic and outreach programs. They collaborate regularly with faculty, academic counsellors, program directors and student engagement offices to ensure consistent, student-centred service delivery.

“They are unsung heroes,” one nominator emphasized. “Much of what they do is invisible, but essential — from enrolment logistics and course planning to crisis management and program transitions.”

Their ability to remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly and stay organized during high-volume periods such as course registration and exam season was repeatedly commended.

Shaping student success, one interaction at a time

While the numbers are impressive — serving more than 3,000 undergraduate students across six core programs — the true impact of the UGS Team lies in the individual stories of care and connection. Each conversation, each email and each smile at the front desk contribute to a culture where students feel like they matter.

“They don’t just answer questions — they listen,” one student wrote. “And in doing so, they remind us that we’re not alone.”

When asked what inspires them to continue this work, Bannon put it simply: “The students! They inspire us with what they are capable of achieving and keep us going.”

Ali also pointed to the power of the team dynamic: “I'm genuinely so grateful to be part of a team that is positive, strengths/growth-driven, so inclusive and fun!”

Bannon offered thoughtful advice for those aspiring to make a similar impact: “Know that while you might not hear it every day, your work is valued and you are making a difference…stay positive, engaged and keep going.” Meanwhile, Lewis shared, “One caring conversation can be the moment someone needs to change their perspective and feel confident to chase their goals.”

Congratulations to the Undergraduate Services Team. Your work embodies the very values that fuel our impact: excellence, empathy, collaboration and student success. This award recognizes your hard work and celebrates the meaningful difference you make in students' lives every single day.