May 21, 2026
Contact: Sara Diedrich, diedrichs@missouri.edu
Photos by Abbie Lankitus
Every day, dedicated staff members power the moments, achievements and experiences that define the University of Missouri. During Staff Recognition Week, Mizzou celebrates these exceptional individuals through the Outstanding Staff Awards. These honors recognize the innovators, problem-solvers and campus champions whose passion, dedication and service go beyond expectations, creating a lasting impact across campus and setting the standard for excellence.
In one of the most meaningful responsibilities on campus, a committee of Staff Advisory Council members and staff-at-large carefully reviewed nominations submitted by colleagues, students, alumni and retirees to select this year’s honorees.
Join us as we recognize and celebrate the outstanding staff members who move Mizzou forward. Read on to learn what nominees wrote about the recipients.
Chancellor’s Outstanding Staff Awards
The Chancellor’s Outstanding Staff Awards recognize individuals who embody the very best of the university and its community, distinguished by exceptional performance, strong character and meaningful impact. Honorees exemplify the university’s mission and values through their dedication, collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence.
This honor is presented to staff across five job categories. The 2026 recipients are:
ADMINISTRATIVE/UNIVERSITY FUNCTIONS
- Laurie Pelster, senior finance and accounting analyst in the Department of Dermatology in the School of Medicine
Pelster has played a pivotal role in strengthening the dermatology department’s research infrastructure during a period of significant growth. She proactively improved grants and accounts management while also improving processes through professional development and cross-departmental collaboration. She has navigated organizational challenges with patience and persistence while maintaining a consistent, solutions-oriented mindset.
Known for her professionalism, responsiveness and collaborative spirit, Pelster is a trusted partner whose sound judgment, reliability and commitment to continuous improvement make her an invaluable resource to colleagues and leadership alike.
- Beth Monson, operations coordinator of the Family Nutrition Education Programs (FNEP) at MU Extension
Monson brings contagious energy and optimism that elevate every project she touches. Her exceptional leadership and steady presence are instrumental in coordinating nutrition and educational programming across the state. She manages complex logistics, cross-functional teams and large-scale operations with remarkable precision. Throughout the process, Monson remains a trusted leader and source of stability, supporting colleagues through uncertainty while embracing new responsibilities.
Her collaborative spirit, strategic mindset and unwavering commitment ensure continuity, strengthen operations and help guide the organization through transitional phases.
FACILITIES/OPERATIONS
- Jeff Liptak, control system specialist at Mizzou Power Plant
Liptak is a trusted and dependable problem-solver whose initiative and commitment consistently elevate plant performance and operational excellence. Driven by a strong dedication to reliability and continuous improvement, he proactively identifies opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce waste and optimize operations. His innovative mindset leads to solutions ranging from process enhancements to cost-saving initiatives.
Liptak consistently goes above and beyond, applying creativity and technical expertise to solve critical challenges under pressure. He played a key role in the successful startup of the Research Commons Thermal Plant and continually demonstrates leadership by stepping in wherever needed, ensuring dependable operations and long-term success.
LEADERSHIP/STRATEGY
- Ashley Mitchell, associate director of student support and operational leader for Mizzou Admissions
Mitchell is an accomplished admissions professional known for stepping confidently into high-pressure situations and consistently delivering strong results. Over nearly two decades, she has been a steady and reliable presence, providing critical support to ensure enrollment communications are timely, effective and aligned with institutional priorities. She balances a full portfolio with precision, maintaining accuracy, speed and strategic focus even in fast-moving or complex circumstances.
Whether leading expanded teams or resolving urgent operational challenges, Mitchell demonstrates exceptional dependability, clarity of focus and sound judgment. Her steady leadership and commitment to excellence play a vital role in supporting both divisional success and the university’s long-term enrollment objectives.
RESEARCH/TECHNICAL PROFESSIONALS
- Peter McCarthy, library assistant at the State Historical Society of Missouri
With nearly 30 years of dedicated service, McCarthy exemplifies reliability, adaptability and an unmatched work ethic. A true team player, he solves challenges, supports staff and ensures exceptional patron service — all with a positive attitude.
Whether handling exhibits, retrieving records or stepping in for urgent weekend support, McCarthy delivers with professionalism and heart. His contributions are indispensable, and his presence elevates the entire organization. Colleagues describe him as the backbone of daily operations, an unsung hero whose impact is deeply felt.
PART-TIME
- Michael Castera, senior data coordinator with the Missouri Cancer Registry and Research Center in the College of Health Sciences
With more than 25 years of expertise in cancer registry processing, Castera delivers unmatched technical skill and an unwavering focus on data quality. Since joining the team, he has played a pivotal role in dramatically improving efficiency and timeliness.
Castera is a trusted resource for colleagues across numerous projects, consistently offering thoughtful guidance on both new and existing workflows. He collaborates effectively with staff at all levels and is widely respected for his reliability, professionalism and willingness to help as needed.
James P. Pace Continuous Improvement Award
This award, established in 2023 by James Pace — a Mizzou alumnus and retired owner and CEO of ROM Corporation — is given annually to an employee who demonstrates innovation, process improvement, change leadership, efficiency and effectiveness.
The 2026 winner is Kristen Hulen, a business and finance officer for Campus Facilities.
Hulen has established herself as a transformative leader whose strategic vision and commitment to process improvement drive meaningful change across Campus Facilities. Leveraging deep financial expertise and a collaborative approach, she has modernized long-standing practices to enhance efficiency, transparency and customer service.
Hulen’s leadership has strengthened processes, enhanced resource stewardship and increased operational effectiveness across campus.
Barbara S. Uehling Award for Administrative Excellence
Established in 1986 by the Staff Advisory Council, this award honors an administrator who demonstrates qualities of leadership and administrative excellence and helps to improve working conditions and the quality of life for Mizzou staff. Chancellor Barbara S. Uehling, who established the Staff Advisory Council, was the first recipient.
The 2026 winner is Hope Bottomley, program manager of Mizzou’s Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.
Bottomley is a vital operational and administrative leader, supporting the daily office functions that ensure the success of the fraternity and sorority community. She sets a positive tone by bringing energy, warmth and an unwavering commitment that elevates everyone around her.
With exceptional organizational skills, Bottomley keeps complex processes on track, anticipates needs and ensures critical priorities are handled seamlessly, allowing others to focus on strategic goals with confidence. Her positivity inspires those around her, and her dedication consistently exceeds expectations, making a lasting impact on both people and performance.
Laura Sobieck, second from left, with University of Missouri Vice President for Human Resources Marsha Fischer, Staff Advisory Council Chair Kelsie Gibler, University of Missouri President Mun Choi and a guest.
Mick Deaver Memorial Award for Student Relations Excellence
This award honors a staff member who exemplifies Mick Deaver’s concern for fostering good relations with students. It is named for Major Mick Deaver, who served as the associate director of the University Police Department until his death in 1980, after which the Staff Advisory Council established the award.
The 2026 winner is Laura Sobieck, a senior educational program coordinator in the Department of Biomedical Informatics, Biostatistics and Medical Epidemiology at Mizzou’s School of Medicine.
Sobieck is an exceptional leader and transformative student advocate whose personalized approach elevates the graduate student experience. She guides students through complex academic processes with clarity, compassion and proactive support.
Her proactive communication style keeps students informed and removes barriers to success, particularly for working professionals and remote learners. Through responsiveness, advocacy and genuine care, Sobieck creates lasting impact, helping students thrive academically and personally while strengthening engagement, retention and overall student success.
Staff Advisory Council’s Exemplary Service Award
This award honors those who have gone above and beyond to support the efforts of Staff Advisory Council.
The 2026 winner is Campus Dining Services.
Campus Dining Services — which operates more than 20 locations across campus — deserves recognition for its exceptional contributions to campus life. Not only does the team serve delicious meals to Tigers and visitors, but its dedicated staff also provides extensive catering services for meetings, gatherings and campus events, such as the Staff Recognition Week luncheon.
Campus Dining staff members’ attention to detail and commitment to service ensure seamless coordination, hospitality and memorable experiences. By welcoming students, families, staff and visitors with warmth and professionalism, the Campus Dining team fosters meaningful connections across campus.
From prospective student and Staff Advisory Council events to campus celebrations, Campus Dining Services plays a vital role in making every experience more welcoming, memorable and successful.
MILESTONES
