LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 16, 2024) — The Employee Engagement Committee of the University of Kentucky Staff Senate gave Michael "Mike” Adams the first Outstanding Staff Senator Award. Adams has served on the Staff Senate for 21 years, including leadership positions.
Adams is the space and facilities coordinator and safety officer for the College of Arts and Sciences.
In the nomination narratives, his senate colleagues say his dedication and passion for the Staff Senate were evident.
"I honestly believe no one is more passionate about the Staff Senate than this candidate, and nobody believes in its potential more,” said Kelly Hahn, a fellow staff senator.
Adams’ proactive leadership in addressing issues and collaborating with the administration was also noted.
"Mike has been a big proponent of staff and being a part of shared governance from the day he became a senator and worked hard every day to get there," said staff senator Carl Harper.
The Outstanding Staff Senator Award was established to recognize a staff senator for their exceptional service and unwavering commitment to the Staff Senate. The award acknowledges their contributions through effective collaboration with staff to address issues affecting the UK community. It reflects their steadfast dedication to shared governance principles and their instrumental role in advancing the Senate’s overarching agenda and goals.
“Mike’s passion and engagement have set a high standard for advocacy and collaboration within our community,” said staff senator Mindy Thompson, past chair of the Employee Engagement Committee. “His receipt of this award honors his outstanding achievements and inspires continued excellence and commitment among his peers.”