Peers say College of Architecture business staff is 'Best in Business'

Recognized by their peers for outstanding service, sustained excellence and workplace innovation, the Texas A&M College of Architecture’s [business office] (http://www.arch.tamu.edu/inside/services/business-office/) staff received the 2014 Best in Business Award from the university’s [Committee of Senior Business Administrators] (http://csba.tamu.edu/index.php) at a special May 20, 2014 presentation.

In nominating the group, Jorge Vanegas, dean of the college, called them a “cohesive, high-performance team that consistently and flawlessly executes its myriad duties,” including research and grant management, purchasing, payroll, budget implementation, human resource administration and travel processing.

They have also been innovators in new business practices, he said, noting that the team often evaluates systems, policies and procedures prior to their adoption by the university. This role they earned, he said, by gaining the respect and trust of the university’s division of finance and other agencies.

The business office staff, led by Chris Novosad, assistant dean for finance and administration, includes Theresa Bramson, business coordinator I; Kevin Gustavus, business administrator II; Amanda Hammill, business coordinator I; Angela Mayorga, business associate I; Shauna Ramos, business coordinator I; Rachel Robinson, business associate II; and Faith Stringer, business coordinator III.

Every member of the business office staff, Vanegas said, “exceeds expectations, follows up and follows through. They provide our college students, faculty and staff with a customized, personal and positive experience.”