Celebrating the 2023 Employee Award Winners
UBC Sauder is thrilled to recognize seven exceptional employees who have made a significant impact on the school. These talented individuals embody the values of rigour, respect and responsibility and are committed to elevating the experiences of UBC Sauder students, alumni and community members.
Each of these employees approach their roles and portfolios with dedication and passion, and we are grateful to have them as part of the UBC Sauder community. On behalf of everyone at UBC Sauder, we extend our collective thanks to them!
Meet the 2023 award winners and their genuine responses to this recognition:
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Award
Wayne Rawcliffe, MBA, EdD, CPHR, SHRP (he/him)
Full-time Lecturer, Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources Division/Law and Business Communications Group
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Expanded students’ exposure to diversity in the business world by intentionally and thoughtfully integrating a variety of learning materials to teach evidence-based knowledge of EDI
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Contributed significantly to the school and student body as an inaugural member of the UBC Sauder EDI committee with three years of service to this initiative
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Integrated EDI into his advisory duties with several student clubs, guiding student executives to adopt an EDI lens in all initiatives
“I am honoured to be recognized by my peers for this award. The work of EDI is not an end in itself. To solve the complex problems that we face globally and locally, we need all perspectives to discover innovative solutions. EDI in the classroom ensures active participation and contribution from all students, fostering comprehensive learning experiences.”
Leader of the Year Award
Phil Seo (he/him)
Associate Director, UBC Sauder Co-op, Business Career Centre
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Built strategic community partnerships within the community, including the Co-op Student Association and piloted Co-op social events across Canada
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Demonstrated that he is a responsible leader who strives for excellence and aims to positively impact the broader community
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Improved the Co-op program to encompass new initiatives, a community-focused culture and transformative experiences
“Leadership is a quality I value deeply so winning this award is extra special to me. I love working in teams, and working towards our vision of building a UBC Sauder Co-op community. I am very appreciative to work at UBC, at Sauder, in the Business Career Centre, and on a team of genuinely caring team members.”
Rising Star Award
Simran Mander (she/her)
Alumni Engagement Officer, Development and Alumni Engagement
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Demonstrated remarkable growth and emerging responsible leadership skills by mentoring multiple students and new team members
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Contributed a wealth of ideas to the school while simultaneously running an incredible volume of alumni programming
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Built upon the reunions portfolio, working closely with alumni volunteers to host over ten successful reunions last year
“This award serves as a dual reminder: firstly, highlighting the broader influence of my work on not just alumni but students, and the school; secondly, it symbolizes a triumph over my personal imposter syndrome. It is also an incredible testament to the collective efforts of the incredible DAE team and the unwavering support from those who believe in our shared vision.”
Rising Star Award
Kunwar Singh Raina, MBA (he/him)
Associate Program Leader, Continuing Business Studies
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Demonstrated remarkable growth through his dedication to the school, outstanding performance and career progression
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Developed responsible leadership skills by building strong and collaborative relationships within his business unit and across UBC Sauder
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Committed to advising new students on program criteria, helping them navigate the application process and ensuring students make informed decisions about their educational journey
“I am truly honored and humbled to receive the Rising Star Award. This recognition symbolizes not just my individual achievement, but the collective effort of my incredible team. It reinforces my confidence in the remarkable work being done at DAP & CBS, and serves as a motivating force to continue with the same rigour. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to contributing even more to the success of my team and UBC Sauder as a whole.
Lesley Wilkins Service Excellence Award – M&P
Erin Catherall (she/her)
Program Manager, Aboriginal Management Program (AMP), Ch’nook Indigenous Business Education
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Supported students by being highly sensitive to their needs and worked seamlessly with faculty to deliver the various AMP courses
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Created two exceptional programs: the Metis Nation Business Management Program and the Metis Nation Senior Leadership Program
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Supported in UBC Sauder’s efforts in economic reconciliation and capacity building in Indigenous communities
“This award is meaningful as it highlights the important work UBC Sauder and the Ch’nook Indigenous Business Education office is doing in helping to advance the goals outlined in the UBC Indigenous Strategic Plan (ISP). I am honoured for the recognition by my peers; however, my contributions would not be possible without the support of my team, faculty, UBC Sauder staff, donors and higher leadership, all of whom contribute to making these programs a reality. I am proud to be part of the impactful journey our School is undertaking in this space.”
Lesley Wilkins Service Excellence Award – M&P
Erica Hill (she/her)
Learning Designer, Learning Services
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Instrumental in the advancement of many technology pilots and drove positive change within UBC Sauder
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Dedicated to enhancing the student experience, driving process refinement, and making a social impact
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Developed extensive training materials and resources for faculty and staff following the pandemic that have led to a more engaging and enriching learning environment for students
“It was wonderful to be recognized by UBC Sauder with the Leslie Wilkins award, especially since moving into a brand new role of Learning Designer. I love working at UBC Sauder and I’ve built so many rewarding friendships and connections in the 13 years I’ve worked here. The award is really a reflection of the amazing support and guidance of the Learning Services team. From supporting my growth in my career to including me on challenging and fun projects, they allow me to shine in my own quirky way. I’m blessed to work with this amazing group of people!’
Lesley Wilkins Service Excellence Award – CUPE2950
Yuri Imai
Student Experience Coordinator, Continuing Business Studies
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Supported course advising and enrolment while maintaining the learning management system, tracking grades and processing graduation certificates
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Committed to providing support and guidance to students to enhance the student experience
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Inspired those around her to strive for excellence through a positive attitude and passion for her work
“I feel honoured and humbled to receive this award. I appreciate the recognition and will use this as motivation to continue to work hard. I would especially like to thank my colleagues at UBC Sauder Continuing Business Studies who have been both supportive and inspiring.”