Crandall University celebrated its annual Staff Appreciation Awards on June 17, recognizing the outstanding contributions of employees who exemplify the University’s mission and statement of faith through their service, leadership, and innovation.

Three prestigious awards were presented during the event, each honoring exceptional individuals whose work has had a significant and lasting impact on the Crandall community.

Service Excellence Recognition Award – Dawn Welner

The Service Excellence Recognition Award highlights the efforts of front-line employees who inspire excellence in client service while navigating challenges with professionalism and compassion. This year’s recipient, Dawn Welner, exemplifies these qualities through her unwavering dedication, emotional intelligence, and commitment to a culture of service excellence.

Dawn consistently goes above and beyond her job responsibilities, handling difficult interactions with grace and empathy. Her positive attitude and strong communication skills have made her a source of encouragement and motivation for colleagues across campus. Through tenacity, creativity, and resilience, she not only meets challenges head-on but also helps drive meaningful change. Dawn’s work embodies the spirit of Crandall’s mission and her service continues to make a profound impact on the university community.

Williston Award – Laurie Douthwright

The Williston Award is designed to recognize employees who may work behind the scenes, yet play a crucial role in fostering a nurturing and supportive environment. This year’s honoree, Laurie Douthwright, is a quiet force whose leadership and mentorship consistently elevate those around him.

Laurie leads by example, demonstrating care, compassion, and a deep commitment to both personal and professional growth. He motivates his colleagues to exceed expectations and encourages a shared sense of purpose that aligns with Crandall’s values. Laurie is known for his critical thinking, his ability to inspire emerging leaders, and for cultivating a positive workplace culture. His steadfast support and behind-the-scenes efforts are foundational to the university’s continued success.

Innovative Recognition Award – Alicia Flanagan

The Innovative Recognition Award celebrates employees whose creativity and forward-thinking have brought about meaningful change within the university. Alicia Flanagan, this year’s award recipient, has been instrumental in developing and implementing solutions that challenge the status quo and advance the university’s mission in impactful ways.

Alicia’s innovative mindset has led to the introduction of new systems and processes that improve both the student experience and operational effectiveness. Her initiatives—whether technological, procedural, or programmatic—have contributed to a stronger, more adaptive campus community. Always going above and beyond, Alicia’s work exemplifies Crandall’s commitment to thoughtful progress and faithful service.

These awards serve as a heartfelt thank-you to the staff whose dedication, humility, and service shape the fabric of Crandall University. As we celebrate Dawn, Laurie, and Alicia, we also recognize the broader community of staff members whose everyday efforts enrich the lives of students, faculty, and peers alike.

Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients!

Crandall University is Atlantic Canada’s leading private, not-for-profit university rooted in the Christian Faith, offering degree programs in Arts, Science, Business Administration, Education, and Management. To learn more, visit crandallu.ca or call 1‑888-968-6228.