2026 Staff Merit and Excellence Awards and Appreciation Celebration

By Nick Nobel
July 24, 2026
Three staff members smiling in the lobby of a movie theater.

Last week, the College of Pharmacy honored its amazing staff during our annual Staff Appreciation Celebration. Texas Pharmacy staff gathered at AFS Cinema to enjoy a showing of the modern classic School of Rock, followed by a catered lunch down the street at the Brewtorium.

The college announced the recipients of the 2026 Staff Merit and Excellence Awards, honoring classified and research staff who go above and beyond in supporting the college's core missions of teaching, research, advising and administration. These annual awards recognize individuals whose dedication and service make a lasting impact on the Texas Pharmacy community. The Dean's Office authorized additional funds to recognize even more merit award winners this year.

A group of people in the lobby of a movie theater.
Members of the College of Pharmacy staff in the AFS Cinema lobby before a screening of School of Rock.
Three people smiling in a movie theater lobby.
(From left to right) Abby Moore, Dean Justin Samuel and Jeff Becker.

We are excited to announce 2026's award recipients:

Staff Excellence Award Recipients

Each Excellence Award recipient will receive $2,000, a custom plaque and lunch with Dean Poloyac.

A man and a woman smiling while holding an award.
Dean Poloyac presents a Staff Excellence Award to Events and Logistics Coordinator Katelyn Houchin (who also organized the event).

Staff Merit Award Recipients

Each Merit Award recipient will receive $750, a custom plaque and lunch with Dean Poloyac.

A man and a woman smiling while holding an award.
Grants and Contracts Specialist Christi Fannon receives her Staff Merit Award.

Congratulations to all the recipients and everyone in the college community!

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