The Staff Spotlight recognizes and celebrates achievements and contributions made by non-faculty staff to the successful operation of the University. This is an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and exemplary performance of individuals and teams that deserve special recognition. All non-faculty staff employed, both full-time and part-time, by RUSH University are eligible to be recognized in the Staff Spotlight; it is also possible to nominate a whole team rather than an individual.
There are two award periods each year. Nominations are open year-round; nominees will be reviewed as candidates for the next upcoming review period.
First Nomination Period
- Review Period: June, nominations for 2025 are closed. Dates for 2026 TBD.
- Awardee/Honorable Mentions Announced: at Summer Staff Open Forum on June 18, 2025
Second Nomination Period
- Review Period: November 11, 2025 - November 21, 2025.
- Awardee/Honorable Mentions Announced: at the Winter Staff Open Forum on December 01, 2025.
To nominate a staff member, review the guidelines and instructions and submit a nomination form.
The most recent Staff Spotlight award winners:
Erin Yurko
Erin Yurko is a Clinical Research Coordinator II in the Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center.
Erin was nominated for her ability to coordinate complex clinical trials and her dedication to research participants. From her nomination:
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“It doesn't matter if we need to recruit participants, cover study visits, make home visits, complete imaging or go to infusion, Erin never turns down an opportunity to help the department.”
"She creates a welcoming environment for all team members and leads by example."
"Erin constantly exceeds the ICARE values and goes above and beyond for our research participants."
Michelle McFall-Johnsen
Michelle is an Administrative Manager in the Occupational Therapy department.
She was nominated because her contributions have an immediate and lasting impact on students, faculty, and the staff she supports . From her nomination:
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“Michelle's attention to detail, follow-through, and deep understanding of university processes allow our program to function at a high level."
"Michelle routinely takes initiative to improve our systems and workflows. She has streamlined processes, reorganized key administrative functions, and implemented practical changes that make our daily operations more efficient"
"Michelle embodies the best of RUSH University - excellence, leadership, collaboration, inclusion, and a genuine dedication to service."