The University of Florida recently honored Jacksonville employees who, through their dedication and long-term commitment, have made significant contributions to the organization, patients and other employees.

Robert C. Nuss, M.D., associate vice president for health affairs and College of Medicine senior associate dean, thanked the employees for their loyalty and hard work.

"Our continuing growth and prominence in the market place is a direct result of the individual and collective efforts of our employees," he said. "Your work service has contributed significantly to the success of the University of Florida, UF Jacksonville Healthcare, Inc. and UF Jacksonville Physicians, Inc."

Twenty-two employees named Star Employee of the Month throughout the past year were recognized: Sabrina Ballard, Sheila Bobek, Bridget Britt, Kelly Britt, Kristy Champion, Bonita Drayton, Queenie Escudero, Sarah Gladden, Robbie Green, Cheran Henry, Farida Husein, Pam Ivey, Patricia Kendrick, Margie Masters, Jessica Pafford, Maryann Palmeter, Adrian Peters, Stacey Plummer, Kristi Rowland, Catrina Smith, Paulette Turgeon and Lois Walker.

In addition, 2005-06 was a banner year for service awards, with the following employees earning commemorative lapel pins or pendants:

30 Years

Nancy Melvin

25 Years

Nancy Frashuer
Donna Serrano
Patricia Williams

20 Years

Loreto Alfaro
Myrtle Herrin
Pamela Ivey
Mary Ogburn
Marcia Patterson
Thomas Walz
Carolyn Williams

15 Years

Sharonda Aikens
Kim Bartley
Sonya Geis
Rogana Kendrick
Teresa Knowles
Juanita Kohn
Deloris McGee
Linda Quarterman

10 Years

5 Years