See who’s shining: UR Stars highlights year in review

Over the past year, University of Rochester faculty and staff have found thousands of reasons to recognize one another through UR Stars. From celebrating everyday contributions to highlighting achievements that reflect our Meliora and ICARE values, each recognition helps strengthen a culture where people feel seen and appreciated. UR Stars makes it easy to celebrate colleagues across the University—and the numbers show just how much that spirit of appreciation has grown. Take a look at some highlights from July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026.

Recognition recipients

Spotlighting some of our most recognized employees

More than XX employees received a UR Star in the last fiscal year. Here are eight of our most recognized employees from across the University.

Makenzie Mathews
8-1400-Critical Care Nursing

Jadiyah Bryant
Urology

Madison Esposito
River Campus Libraries

Andrew Gudonis
Strong West Periop – Nursing

Carmella Rodger
7-3600 MedSurg Nrsg/SMH

Susan Cardinal
River Campus Libraries

Jenny Boyer
Pharmacy SMH

Ashlee Huff
River Campus Libraries

Recognition recipients

Spotlighting some of our most recognized employees

More than 14,360 different employees received at least one UR Star in the last fiscal year. Here are eight employees from across the University that received multiple notes of recognition in our UR Stars program.

Makenzie Mathews
Assistant Nurse Manager
8-1400-Critical Care Nursing

Jadiyah Bryant
Outpatient Access Representative
Urology

Madison Esposito
Library Assistant
River Campus Libraries

Andrew Gudonis
Senior Registered Nurse
Strong West Periop – Nursing

Carmella Rodger
Registered Nurse
7-3600 MedSurg Nrsg/SMH

Susan Cardinal
Lead Librarian
River Campus Libraries

Jenny Boyer
Pharmacy Access Representative
Pharmacy SMH

Ashlee Huff
Senior Staff and Administrative Services Administrator
River Campus Libraries

Recognition by the numbers

18% increase in UR Stars sent

40,304 total UR Stars were sent to 14,361 employees in FY26, up from 34,122 in FY25.

15% of employees gave a UR Star

5,820 employees sent at least one UR Star in FY26.

6,275

Patients and family members sent a UR Star.

Leading recognition across the University

399 recognitions shared

“I enjoy recognizing colleagues because even a small acknowledgment can boost morale, strengthen relationships, and remind people that their contributions matter.”

Elisabeth McDonald
Senior Nursing Professional Development Specialist
Strong Memorial Hospital

391 recognitions shared

“A simple “thank you” and “I see you” though a UR Star or eCard can go a long way. Showing appreciation can be an infectious thing and ultimately makes the workplace a more welcoming environment.”

Caitlin Statt
Social Worker
Strong Memorial Hospital

A little appreciation can go a long way. Take a moment to celebrate a colleague and let them know their contributions are seen and valued.

Send a UR Star