Hunsaker Recognized for Outstanding Service in Research Administration

Rebecca Hunsaker, who serves as the executive director of research management in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, was recently honored with the Region II Distinguished Service Award by the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA).

This annual award recognizes members of Region II who have made sustained and significant contributions. It was presented this year at a NCURA meeting in Pittsburgh.

“I am genuinely honored to have been nominated for the award, much less to have received it. The people who have gotten it before me are all incredible people who go above and beyond, so I know I'm in incredible company, and that is extremely humbling,” Hunsaker said.

A prior recipient of the award, Ann Holmes—who retired last summer after a long and distinguished career in BSOS as assistant dean for administration and finance—gave a speech about Hunsaker and her accomplishments at the ceremony.

“I have had the privilege of working by Rebecca's side for most of her career. I have witnessed her skill in mentoring others, not just those who work for her but anyone who comes to her for guidance. She cares about others, and it shows. She is patient and kind,” Holmes said. “She can make the most complex regulation understandable, and more importantly, she makes the explanation relevant to the situation. Nothing pleases her more than helping others grow. Simply put, Rebecca has a gift. And we have all benefited from that gift.”

In her current role, Hunsaker manages numerous critical tasks for BSOS, including proposal reviews, compliance matters, facilitating research participant compensation and incentives, facilitating travel, and helping to manage data and analytics.
Hunsaker has been part of the UMD community since 2004, serving in roles for the Center for Advanced Study of Language and for the Office of Research Administration before joining BSOS in 2011.

“We are all so very proud of her and thrilled for this recognition of her contributions to Research Administration,” said Sandy Collier, director of operations and finance for the Maryland Neuroimaging Center, who also serves as the NCURA Region II Chair. 

Photo provided by Sandy Collier

Published on Fri, Nov 22, 2024 - 9:48AM