The University of Nevada, Reno recognized 59 classified staff members with more than 10 years of service and 33 retirees at the annual Staff Employees' Council (SEC) Silver & Blue Salute.

University President Marc Johnson granted all classified staff two hours of paid administrative leave to enjoy the recognition reception, which was held in the Joe Crowley Student Union's Milt Glick Ballrooms between 1 and 3 p.m., Wednesday, June 12, 2019.

Classified employees fulfill many roles on the University campus. These include clerical, technical, custodial, researchers, library staff and many other positions.

Shawn Norman, associate vice president for Planning, Budget and Analysis, took on the role of Master of Ceremonies for this year's event.

"Classified staff are very important to the University as they make things happen on campus whether it's working with a student, parent, faculty, or executive leadership," Norman said. "Due to being in tune with the University and knowing how things work, many great ideas start with the classified staff which can lead to campus enhancements and process improvements."

The 2019 Distinguished Classified Employee of the Year, Brendi Gertsma, was presented with a certificate in addition to a plaque previously awarded to her at the 2019 Honor the Best ceremony. Additional honorees who were recognized at the event included the runner-up Classified Employee of the Year, Millicent Braxton-Calhoun, Program Officer for the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, as well as Wolf Cub of the Year, Leilani Konyshev, Community Based Instructor for the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.

A prize drawing to benefit the Classified Staff Development Fund raised $682, with an array of prizes including a $450 Southwest Airlines gift certificate and an overnight stay donated by the Whitney Peak Hotel.

After the ceremony, classified staff and faculty enjoyed delicious food provided by Silver and Blue Catering.

For more information about the event and a complete list of honorees and retirees, visit the SEC Events website.