Three Daemen University employees were announced as recipients of the 2022 Outstanding Faculty and Staff Awards.
Each of the three awardees receives a cash prize of $1,500.
“It’s my favorite part of the [program],” said Olson, in handing out the awards at the end of his State of the University address.
Committees chose the recipients and were composed of honorees of the respective awards within the last five years.
Michael Rollo, an integral member of the Facilities Department, received the 2022 Outstanding Staff Award. He was described by his nominator as always reliable, supportive, and friendly—and who exhibits positive energy and never hesitates to help others. 
The recipient of the 2022 Outstanding Administrator Award was Brittany Maryniewski, degree audit and articulation analyst, with the Office of the Registrar.
“She always goes above and beyond in all duties, and always has a smile and a positive attitude,” said Olson. “A professional and dedicated employee, the recipient is kind, understanding, helpful, accurate, and knowledgeable.”
Olson added, “By all accounts, this recipient does not hesitate to take on difficult challenges, and works hard to solve problems.”
Penny Messinger, associate professor of history and chair of the Department of History and Political Science, was honored with the 2022 Outstanding Faculty Award.
“The awardee is a dedicated teacher who always puts students’ needs first,” said Olson. “As such, this professional goes above and beyond to be there for students, is always accessible, and builds genuine connections with students.”
He added, “The committee considered this awardee to be a ‘workhorse,’ for all that she has done for the university.”
Messinger’s service to the institution, including serving as chair of many committees and as an active member in numerous associations, has also been recognized as being instrumental to the design of the general education curriculum.