About the Award
The Superior Accomplishment Awards Program recognizes eligible faculty and staff members across the University of Florida and the UF Health enterprise. The program honors those who have demonstrated outstanding and meritorious service, improved efficiency, operational excellence and/or made a meaningful impact on the quality of life for students, patients, employees and the communities we serve.
The program is designed to recognize exceptional faculty and staff for their dedication, commitment to excellence and willingness to go above and beyond in advancing the missions of the University of Florida and UF Health.
Division-level award recipients across 4 award types receive cash awards of $300, then compete for university-level awards, which offer six $1,000 and nine $2,000 cash awards. Each award is subject to applicable taxes.
The 2027 Superior Accomplishment Awards nomination period is open through October 23, 2026.
Selection Criteria
Eligible Employees:
- Academic Personnel
- Post-Doctoral Associates
- TEAMS Employees
- UFPD Sworn Law Enforcement Officers
- UFPD Communications Operators
- Employees of University-affiliated Direct Supporting Organizations (DSOs)
- Chief Executive Officer of UF Health Shands Hospital
- UF Health Jacksonville
- University of Florida Jacksonville Physicians, Inc.
- All UF Health hospitals
Exclusions:
- Employees with titles higher than department chair or director level
- OPS employees
- Employees who have received an official disciplinary action in the previous fiscal year (July 1 – June 30)
- Employees who have received a divisional or University Superior Accomplishment Award are not eligible for another award until one year has passed
All nominees must have been employed by the University or UF Health for the full previous fiscal year (July 1 – June 30), with the exception of Rookie of the Year.
Nominees for Rookie of the Year must have successfully passed their probationary period.
All nominees must have been appointed on a minimum 75 percent or 3/4 work-time basis as a UF hourly/salaried employee (including UFF).
Nominees shall have accomplished noteworthy performance and have made a positive impact on the overall goals and objectives of the department. The committee will consider the following:
- Excellence in overall job performance
- Outstanding service to students, patients, staff, academic personnel, visitors and university clientele
- Willingness to assist beyond normal expectations
- Dedication to the job and the university
- Significant focus and attention to safety in the workplace to include development and/or compliance with safety policies, plans and procedures
- Consistent cooperation and helpfulness
- Initiative and/or creativity in performing assigned duties
Nomination Process
Nominations for Superior Accomplishment Awards includes input from several sources that are reviewed by a selection committee composed of university employees.
Why you should nominate someone
Faculty and staff are the driving force behind our university’s success. Recognizing their achievements celebrates the dedication and service that enrich the experiences of students and employees every day. By nominating someone, you help foster a culture of appreciation, inspire excellence and ensure that those who go above and beyond receive the recognition they deserve.
2026 Winners
Twenty staff and faculty members representing a wide range of experience and hailing from UF locations throughout Florida were recognized for their outstanding service in a ceremony held at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center.
Promotional Materials
Download official SAA Awards promotional materials to help spread the word across social media, events, presentations and more.
Have questions? Please email us at SAA@hr.ufl.edu.