Mika Tomac does not have a one-size-fits-all attitude, say the students she works with. Her support and encouragement was cited as reasons for her nomination for an award recognizing her first-class service.

A clinical therapist in the Faculty of Nursing, Tomac received a “Going the Extra Mile” (GEM) award at a luncheon Thursday to honour the contributions of staff in Student and International Affairs.

In nominating Tomac, a student wrote that she “literally changed my life.”

“She has made me believe in me and reminds me to be kind to myself, which sends me off with such a breath of fresh air into the busy world I struggle in every day,” said the letter of nomination.

In addition to the student-nominated category, awards went to Career Development Services secretary Hoda Skaff and Student Disability Services secretary Joy Lesperance for their work with faculty and staff, and to Paolo Vasapolli, assistant manager of satellite operations for Food Services, as a partner working with the Student and International Affairs team.

Dean of students Clayton Smith said it is important to take time to recognize staff members who go the extra mile to enhance the UWindsor student experience.

“These staff demonstrate through their actions sincere empathy and support for our students throughout their university years,” Dr. Smith said. “We are so proud of their many acts of giving!”