September 30, 2025

The University of New Mexico Staff Council is now accepting nominations for the 2025  Gerald W. May Outstanding Staff Award. Established in 1990 by former UNM President Gerald W. May, this prestigious presidential award is intended to recognize outstanding staff members who have made significant contributions to the University. 

Each year, at least three people are presented with a monetary award and plaque. Nominations may be made by faculty, staff, and students that recognize staff members who have made notable contributions to the UNM. 

Nominations are open to all UNM staff including the UNM Health Sciences Center and branch campuses. To submit a nomination, click here. The deadline for submitting a nomination is Friday, October 17 at 3 p.m.

The Staff Council Rewards & Recognition Committee reviews nominations and puts forward recommendations for the award. Once the Staff Council Executive Committee approves, the recommendations are sent to the University President, who makes the final selections. Recipients are then honored at a public ceremony, currently scheduled for December 5th. 

Since 1991, over 140 staff members have been recognized with this award. Past recipients stand out as leaders in innovation, collaboration and advocates for service excellence. 

May served as UNM’s 14th president from 1986-90. In 1990, May provided funds specifically for staff recognition and at the end of his tenure, a matching amount was made available from the Regent’s Endowment Fund. Currently, the award issupported by Institutional Support Services.  

For more information and a previous list of winners, visit the Staff Council website. 

For questions, please contact this year's award coordinators: Jessica Hitzman and Nicole Smith.