Dean's Distinction vs. Harvard Heroes

While both Dean's Distinction and Harvard Heroes are both high-level recognition programs for FAS staff members, they do include some key differences, including eligibility, guiding principles, and nomination criteria.

Please review the chart below and keep the differences in mind as you consider nominations for each program.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Annie McGough or hr_programs@fas.harvard.edu.

Dean's Distinction vs. Harvard Heroes Comparison Chart

Criteria	Dean's Distinction	Harvard Heroes
Audience	FAS staff	Harvard staff
Nomination Types	Individual and team	Individual
Nominee Eligibility	Benefits-eligible, full-time or part-time staff Non-HUCTW and HUCTW staff Hired into an FAS benefits-eligible position on or before 1/1/2025 Job grade levels: 47 through 60 for Individual Dean's Distinction 47 through 64 for Team Dean's Distinction Less than Half Time (LHT) staff may be nominated as a member of a team (but not as an individual) While previous Dean's Distinction nominees (from any year) are eligible to be nominated again this year, recipients of Individual Dean’s Distinction in 2020-2025 are not eligible to be nominated, unless they are being nominated for Team Dean's Distinction. Harvard coaches, faculty members, students and retirees are not eligible. Staff must be Harvard employees at the time of the celebration event to be honored.	Staff must be an administrative/professional, support, or hourly Harvard employee At least one year of benefits-eligible service. Job grade levels 47 through 60 Less than Half Time (LHT) staff and temps are not eligible. Assistant coaches are eligible. Head coaches are ineligible. Staff must be Harvard employees at the time of the celebration event to be honored.
Guiding Principles	Cultivating a strong sense of community and connection across the FAS. Building morale in the work environment with intentional care and consideration. Exceeding regular responsibilities and expectations (i.e., going above and beyond) even in the course of doing one’s regular job. Promoting empathy, authenticity, and mutual respect as hallmarks of excellence in the FAS. Demonstrating creativity and innovation through collaboration and solutions-oriented approaches.	Navigating the New World of Work Embracing Change Citizenship and Community Fostering an Environment of Inclusion and Belonging Leadership and Management Mission and Values One Harvard Service Excellence Stewardship Sustainability Teamwork Innovation/Continuous Improvement
Nomination Criteria	Nominations should be submitted based on the individual or team’s specific work done in the last calendar year.	Nominations should be submitted based on the nominee’s work over their career at Harvard.