More than 450 University of Oregon employees reached a milestone work anniversary in 2020. Officers of administration and classified employees are recognized in the annual years of service program for every five years of employment.

The 2020 honoree list is available on the Office of Human Resources webpage. A wall of honor includes the 36 employees who have worked at the UO for 25 years or more.

"Recognizing these milestone years is a way for us to pause and thank dedicated employees for the expertise they bring to their work every day,” said President Michael H. Schill. “Their contributions help us meet our mission of educating the next generation of global citizens, creating life-changing research, and serving our community. Please join me in expressing appreciation to them for being part of the UO family.”

UO community members can send a personal note of gratitude to an honoree through the HR website.

“Please take a moment to congratulate honorees directly. We cannot have our in-person reception this year, but hearing directly from colleagues can be very meaningful,” said Mark Schmelz, chief human resources officer. “These employees have worked hard and are appreciated for their service to the university.”

Historically, HR hosts an in-person reception for honorees and their colleagues in January and a luncheon with the president for those who have reached the 25-year or more mark. As the university continues to adhere to safety requirements required during the COVID-19 pandemic, an in-person gathering will not be a part of this year's celebration.

Honorees will receive a service certificate and a lapel pin that signifies the number of years they have worked at the university to commemorate their achievement.  A few lucky Ducks will win a UO-themed gift basket through a prize drawing.

Honorees can request their service certificate and lapel pin through the HR website, and all requests received by March 5 will be automatically entered into the drawings. Prize winners will be announced on March 8.

HR identifies honorees using employment dates in Banner. If employees have questions about why they are or are not included on the list of honorees, they can contact Sandee Bybee, HR employee engagement and communications manager, to resolve the issue.