Hancock and Burton Receive Presidential Appreciation Award

Diane Hancock

Diane Hancock and Steve Burton, of the McKay School of Education, were two recipients of this year's President's Annual Appreciation Award. This award recognizes staff and administrative personnel, nominated by their peers, for outstanding service, competence, and creativity. BYU President Cecil Samuelson presented this year's awards at the Presidential Award Banquet held Tuesday, March 25, 2008.

"I was delightfully surprised when I found out," said Hancock. "I immediately felt gratitude for the appreciation that was indicated by that award." Hancock has worked at BYU for 31 years and is currently serving as the executive secretary of the Counseling Psychology and Special Education Department (CPSE). She received the Presidential Appreciation Award once before, early in her career. "To be awarded it again in this new department is a great honor," she said.

"Diane is a dear friend," said Robyn Chatterley, another faculty member of the CPSE department. "She has taught me so many life lessons through her example both on and off campus. I am thrilled that she received the Presidential Appreciation Award."

Steve Burton

Steve Burton, also a 2008 recipient, serves as the systems administrator for the McKay School, working with computer systems, servers, and networks, and managing the various technologies in the McKay School of Education. He has worked at BYU for 16 years. "Steve exemplifies service," said a close colleague, in support of the nomination. "No matter what the request, he comes through cheerfully and wholeheartedly."

Burton said he felt great surprise when he found out he had won the award. "You just do your work and hope you're doing a good job," he said. "People are very kind in the thanks that they show."

Burton and Hancock both said the best part of working at the McKay School is the people with whom they work. "I like not being 'the computer guy' that no one knows," said Burton. "I get to know the faculty here, and they are great to work with." Hancock agreed that the supportive and friendly environment makes the School of Education a great place to work.

7 May 2008