Recognizing global staff whose work elevates the learner experience

Pictured from left to right, top to bottom: Christina Compton, Jen Engeberg, Bob Thomas, Jessica Stock, Mandy Hartman and Robert Negley.

In honorof National Employee Appreciation Day,UMGC recognizedteam membersworldwide whose fresh ideas and collaborative spirit advance the university’s missionto inspire hope, empower dreams, and transform lives … one student at a time.

More than 800 employeesparticipatedin UMGC’s first Global Employee Appreciation Celebrationon March 5, 2026, which highlightedstaffdrivinginnovationin services, processes, and programsto better support learners.

In addition to recognizingstaff award recipients, the eventhonored longtime team member Jennifer Hull for 50 years of service.

Newcomer Impact Award

This award celebrates new team memberswho show initiative, bold thinking, and measurable contributions to UMGC’s strategic prioritieswithin their first three years.

  • Christina Compton,Non‑Traditional Programs Coordinator
    Comptontransformed UMGC’s partnership with the U.S.NavalCommunity College by streamlining workflows, reducing errors, and driving significant enrollment growth—strengthening military pathwaysto degree completionand improving the learner experience.

  • Jennifer “Jen”Engeberg, Assistant Director, Guam
    Engebergbroadened access for military learnersin Asia through strategic outreach, community engagement, and data‑informed practices, strengthening support for learners and accelerating regional enrollment.

  • Robert Negley, Advanced Testing Program Coordinator, Europe
    Negleyenhancedflexible course offerings, learner support, and regional partnerships atNATO’s Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE)andChièvres Air Base,removing barriers to opportunityand guiding staff development whilehimselfpursuing advanced credentials.

ByleeMassey Memorial Award

This award honors a UMGCfaculty or staffmember whose volunteer service beyond their formal duties meaningfully supports university projects or programs.

  • Bob Thomas, Senior Academic Advisor, Japan
    Thomas founded UMGC’s first overseas student‑led organization—the Japanese Cultural Engagement Club—building community, visibility, and enriched learning opportunities for students stationed abroad.

Innovation Award

This award recognizes faculty and staff who introduce innovative ideas or approaches with the potential to significantly enhance UMGC’s work.

  • Amanda “Mandy” Hartman, Learning Architect
    Hartman developed CLEO(Collaborative Learning Experience Optimizer), UMGC’s first generative AI-supported instructional design framework, which improves efficiency, quality, and consistency in course development while advancing responsible innovation.

  • Jessica Stock, PhD, Overseas Collegiate Professor, Europe
    Stock reimagined the UMGC Field Study program into a scalable model that integrates local cultural partnerships, reduces barriers, and expands global learning access for military‑affiliated students across Europe.