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Outstanding Work Performance Awards 2025

July 18, 2025


The Outstanding Work Performance Award recognizes performance beyond what is normally expected of an employee, including increased workload, special projects, developing or modifying procedures and improving effectiveness and efficiency.

Headshot of Patti Bembenek

Patti Bembenek


A custodian’s work is one that can go overlooked for many, but just like the rest of our roles, plays a vital piece in the university’s success. Patti’s proactive problem-solving and commitment to excellence have contributed to a more engaged and motivated campus community. Her leadership and efficiency help to ensure that custodial operations run smoothly. From wearing costumes at team events to always bringing in delicious baked goods for coworkers, she is a source of fun within her department. Patti’s contributions to the cleanliness of this campus will continue to help in shaping the next generation of Pointers.

Darcy Hannon-McFarland


When UWSP made the strategic decision to migrate to a new Interlibrary Loan platform, we recognized the immense effort and change it would require. Despite the challenges, Darcy’s work in the University Library has been instrumental in the successful adoption of the new platform, Rapido. She independently increased her knowledge and technical skills through training videos, online guides and attending numerous meetings with the Council of UW Libraries to ensure a seamless transition. Even after the official implementation, she continued to pursue new partnerships to expand our resource-sharing network. Darcy’s relentless efforts have ensured that UWSP students, faculty and staff have ongoing and timely access to the materials they need for their research and academic success.

Headshot of Darcy Hannon-McFarland
Headshot of Tammy Molski

Tammy Molski


Tammy has taken on multiple projects that have stretched beyond her normal duties as an Administrative Assistant. Taking the initiative with CPS Café financial administration, her new standardized process has helped the café efficiently review monthly progress and better set operational goals. She has improved the communication within the college through the coordination of meetings with CPS administrative staff to create a better sense of community. Tammy has also played a key part in the annual planning of Welcome Week in the College of Professional Studies as well as the organization of special events within three of the four schools within the CPS that draw in hundreds of students.

Steve Sparrow


Demonstrating professionalism, efficiency and dedication, Steve goes above to support the university’s mission of accessible and high-quality education. His ability to manage registrations, promptly address customer inquiries and support his team has helped reduce processing times and provide a seamless experience when working with customers and colleagues. A nominator said, “Even during the busiest time of the year for Continuing Education while short-staffed, Steve’s work performance has been instrumental in maintaining our unit’s operations.”

Headshot of Steve Sparrow