Rewards and Recognition

Whether you are working in an academic department, a center, or in administration, you are integral to the success of FAS. Individually, your passion, professionalism, and commitment to our mission are vital to our standing as a world-class research and teaching institution. And as teammates and colleagues, your collaboration and connection with others are what make the FAS a rewarding workplace and a welcoming community.

To acknowledge the efforts of outstanding FAS employees, the FAS promotes the following awards and recognition programs.

FAS-wide Recognition Programs

  • Dean's Distinction: This annual program recognizes a small number of FAS staff members for their outstanding citizenship, collaboration, and exceptional contribution in support of FAS' teaching and research mission.
  • FAS Giving Thanks: An annual informal gathering for the FAS community that provides the opportunity to write a note of thanks to a colleague, enjoy seasonal refreshments, and donate to the Harvard Square Homeless Shelter. 

Harvard-wide Recognition Programs

  • Harvard Heroes: The University-wide Harvard Heroes recognition program celebrates the extraordinary “above and beyond” contributions of Harvard staff.
  • Harvard Service Milestone Recognition Program:  Faculty and staff across the University who achieve a service milestone anniversary from 5 to 60 years will receive a special message of thanks and congratulations, as well as a selection of gifts to choose from during their anniversary month.

Appreciating Staff in Your Department

Two people clasping hands

While we host large-scale annual recognition programs like Harvard Heroes and Dean's Distinction, there are many ways to show your appreciation for your staff and colleagues within your department. Here are a few examples:

  • Organize a local recognition program. These don't have to be elaborate. They can include things like shouting out good work at a regular staff meeting and giving small tokens of recognition, like a Harvard tote bag or gift certificate to a local coffee shop. Some departments even create their own 'branded' recognition programs, with printed certificates or other celebratory items.
  • Send an email to the staff member's manager or senior FAS leadership (with a copy to the employee), sharing how their helpful actions impacted you and your department. Your words of appreciation can mean a lot and it will show the employee's leaders how much the employee's work means to you and the FAS.
  • If your department has its own website or newsletter, include a section for posting recognition notices.
  • Suggest strong performer take part in professional development programs, such as joining a cohort in the Harvard Leadership Development Programs or being a mentor in the FAS Mentoring Program.
  • Organize a lunch out after a big team project.