Distinguished Service Award:
Honors a faculty member who demonstrates a commitment to excellence, exemplary performance, significant achievement in his or her service area and substantial contributions to the stature, reputation and quality of the university through service to citizens of the state and/or university community. The award celebrates administrative faculty whose achievements are outside the classroom or laboratory.

Carol Ort, associate professor of biology, has served the University within a variety of capacities for more than 30 years. Known for her calm, ethical and thoughtful demeanor, Ort's career has been punctuated with skillful problem-solving as an administrator, and notable distinction in the classroom and as a researcher. 

Her service to the University as an administrator has been substantial. Beginning in 1987 and continuing through 2006, she has held a number of administrative posts that have helped the University increase its academic efficiency and accomplishment.

In 1987-88, she was chair of the College of Arts & Science Courses and Curriculum Committee.

In 1988-89 she served as chair of the Department of Biology. In 1990-1992, she was associate chair of the Department of Biology. Beginning in 1990 and continuing through 2003, she served as assistant vice president for academic affairs/vice provost for the University.

In 2004-2005, she was chair of the University Courses and Curriculum Committee, as well as chair of the Administrative Manual Committee. In 2006, in addition to again serving as associate chair of the Department of Biology, she was chair of the University Courses and Curriculum Committee.  

Her influence at the student level has also been notable. For example, she has served as freshman and sophomore advisor for majors in the Department of Biology. In May 2006, Ort was also honored as faculty mentor to Herz Gold Medal winner Jodie Parker of Sparks, Nev.

Parker noted of Ort, "She is one of the most enthusiastic educators I have ever had, and her classes have shaped what I want to do with the rest of my life."

Ort received her Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley in 1974, and her bachelor of science degree from Michigan State in 1969.