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Department News


Wednesday, June 3, 2009

NANCY IOVANNI, DON MEGERLE RECEIVE TUFTS DISTINCTION AWARDS

MEDFORD -- Donald R. Megerle and Nancy E. Iovanni, invaluable members of the Tufts University Athletics Department for many years, were presented Tufts Distinction Awards in a ceremony at the Jaharis Family Center on the Boston campus this morning. The Distinction Awards were established in 2008 to celebrate staff and faculty who make Tufts an outstanding place to work and learn.

Megerle received the Bridge Builder Award, For Bringing Out The Best in Others. Nominees in this category are noted for building strong connections with colleagues and students. These individuals work well with people from all walks of life, including those whose cultural background, sexual orientation, or life experience may be different from their own. They promote a collegial, inclusive environment and may act as mentors or coaches to support the professional development of others. These nominees make a real impact on the Tufts community, and their work may also make a difference in the wider world.

Hired at Tufts as men's swimming coach in 1971, Megerle has mentored hundreds of Jumbo athletes during 33 years in that position. Since stepping down as swimming coach in 2004, Megerle has continued to provide members of the Tufts community with unmatched training and mentoring as Coach of the President's Marathon Challenge Team.

Iovanni earned the Extra Mile Award, for Exceptional Customer Service. This award celebrates individuals or teams who always go the extra mile to meet the needs of the people they serve. While these "customers" will often be Tufts students, faculty, or staff, they may also include patients and their families, parents, alumni, donors, and those in Tufts' host communities. Candidates in this category are known for meeting and then exceeding expectations, developing effective relationships, and using resources creatively to achieve outstanding results.

Born and raised in Medford, Iovanni has been an instrumental member of the Athletics Department since joining the staff in August 1984. In addition to performing her regular duties, Iovanni's willingness to be interrupted or to take calls at home is the epitome of going the extra mile. She also brings a local flavor that has helped establish the department's blue collar work ethic over the years.

Members of the Buildings and Grounds crew who are essential to Athletics operations were also honored with The Unsung Hero Award, For Accomplishing The Extraordinary Every Day. Patrick Ahearn, Jesse Carreiro, Michael Madden and Michael Salami, in particular, have supported the Athletics Department tirelessly over the years.

Tufts football coach Bill Samko's daughter Kiki Samko from Human Resources coordinated Selection Committee activities.

Tufts Athletics thanks all of these dedicated Jumbos for their distinctive service over the years!

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