The Esprit de Corps Staff Award recognizes an exempt or non-exempt staff member who demonstrates a positive attitude, willingness to support colleagues, and desire to further the mission of their unit and/or Clark School.

Examples might include but are not limited to:

  • Fostering and sustaining effective and collaborative working relationships throughout the university and school
  • Consistently exhibiting exceptional collegiality
  • Setting a positive example in any professional endeavor, regardless of its scale

The award includes a cash prize of $500 and recognition at the annual Faculty and Staff Recognition reception.

Nominations will be assessed on the basis of demonstrated consistent outstanding values and behaviors, with examples that highlight:

  • Collegiality
  • Collaborating and working across teams
  • Strong work ethic
  • University knowledge and contribution

Any full-time or part-time, contingent or permanent, exempt or non-exempt staff member is eligible to be nominated for this award. Nominees must be currently employed (i.e., on payroll) by the university. Nominations must be for individuals; group nominations will not be considered.

Complete the official nomination form and include a narrative describing the nominee’s achievements and specific contributions. The narrative should provide specific examples as to how the nominee meets the eligibility criteria and what distinguishes and makes them deserving of this award.

Nominations will be accepted from current faculty and/or staff members. Narratives must be no more than one page (single spaced) or two pages (double spaced).

Selection of the winner will be determined by an appointed committee on the basis of the information supplied by the nominator. The winner, along with all nominees, will be announced and honored at the annual Faculty and Staff Recognition reception.

Submit a Nomination

Meet our 2026 Recipient: Canitria Cook

Canitria Cook is Coordinator for Academic Affairs in the Maryland Applied Graduate Engineering program. She is recognized for leading initiatives such as student experiential trips to industry employers and orientation events for new students. Canitria has also strengthened partnerships with the Engineering Career Center, supported commencement planning, and helped launch the MAGE photobooth-sharing process, creating opportunities for connection and celebration. Congratulations to Canitria Cook on being selected as the 2026 winner of the Esprit de Corps Staff Award!

Canitria Cook, Maryland Applied Graduate Engineering

Pasr Recipients:

  • 2025:  Melanie Prange, Fischell Department of Bioengineering 
  • 2024:  Ron Mentzer, Engr Education & Career Services

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