University of Illinois Springfield employees were recognized for their outstanding contributions during the Chancellor’s Awards and Staff Appreciation Day held at the Student Union on March 11, 2026. The ceremony, overseen by UIS Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost Brandon Schwab, featured two prestigious awards: the Chancellor’s Academic Professional Excellence (CAPE) Award and the Chancellor’s Award to Recognize Excellence in Civil Service (CARE).

Four additional awards were presented, recognizing outstanding contributions by UIS staff members in categories such as student success, leadership, rapid growth and community enhancement.

CAPE Award

The Chancellor’s Academic Professional Excellence (CAPE) Award was presented to Michele Gribbins, associate provost for institutional research and effectiveness. The award recognizes Gribbins’ dedication, exceptional service and significant contributions to UIS.

Gribbins leads the Office of Institutional Research and Effectiveness and provides data, analysis and reporting that support strategic planning, program evaluation and accreditation at UIS. Her office plays a key role in preparing institutional reporting and supporting the university’s accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

During her time at UIS, Gribbins has contributed to several major institutional initiatives, including the university’s transition from Blackboard to Canvas, the rapid shift to remote instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Academic Portfolio Review process evaluating academic programs. She has also supported university efforts related to student retention initiatives, advising improvements and institutional surveys used to guide campus decision-making.

Nominators noted that Gribbins is known across campus for her strong institutional knowledge, attention to detail and collaborative approach to projects that involve multiple offices and stakeholders.

CARE Award

The Chancellor’s Award to Recognize Excellence in Civil Service (CARE) was presented to Ashley Earnest, assistant director of media strategy, in recognition of her exceptional performance and contributions to the UIS community.

Earnest helped launch the UIS Social Media Squad, a student content creator program designed to give students hands-on experience producing digital content while sharing authentic stories about campus life. The program allows students to build professional portfolios in social media and communications while helping the university connect with prospective and current students through student-created content.

Through the Social Media Squad, students collaborate with the Office of Media Strategy to produce photos, videos and posts highlighting academic programs, campus events and student experiences. The program provides practical career preparation for students while expanding the university’s ability to share stories across its social media platforms.

Colleagues noted that Earnest’s work on the Social Media Squad and other digital storytelling initiatives helps strengthen the university’s visibility and highlight the accomplishments of UIS students, faculty and staff.

Other awards:

• Eden Imming received the Nova Award, which is presented to staff members employed at UIS for up to two years. Imming joined the UIS Office of Financial Aid in August 2024 as a financial aid representative and was promoted to financial aid coordinator a year later. Nominators said she has demonstrated excellence in working with students and families and provides engaging and encouraging assistance in administering financial aid. They also noted that she consistently offers help when unexpected situations arise in the department and treats students and families fairly and with respect.
• Jordan Killen received the Orion Award, given to a full-time staff member who demonstrates a student-first mentality. Killen was recognized for her leadership and mentorship of students through Campus Recreation programs. Students praised her ability to create a welcoming environment and highlighted her leadership of the Prairie Stars Spring Break service trip, where students participate in community service and experiential learning opportunities.
• Ann Comerford received the Polaris Award, which recognizes individuals employed full-time for at least one year who have demonstrated excellence in leadership and mentorship. Nominators highlighted Comerford’s leadership, professionalism and dedication to supporting colleagues and students. They noted her ability to guide and encourage others while contributing to the success of her department and the university.
• Kelsea Hott received the Sirius Award, which honors staff members who have completed their probationary period and consistently go above and beyond to enhance the university community. Nominators said Hott helps foster an inclusive and welcoming environment within the Office of Human Resources. They noted that she goes out of her way to make colleagues feel seen and supported and uses inclusive language that helps create open and respectful communication across the department.