AMHERST, N.Y. – Three Daemen College faculty and staff were presented 2017 Outstanding Faculty and Staff Awards by President Gary A. Olson following his spring State of the College Address on March 30.

This year’s honorees are Dr. Michael Berta of Cheektowaga, director of educational development, Outstanding Administrator Award; Dr. Greg Ford of Grand Island, chair and associate professor of physical therapy, Outstanding Faculty Award; and Melissa Wilkerson of West Seneca, administrative assistant in the physical therapy department, Outstanding Staff Award.

“We are proud to recognize the outstanding work and dedication of these three honorees, who truly inspire excellence among their colleagues across campus,” said Olson.

Berta was commended for his “exceptional commitment to Daemen, always making time for people who need his assistance, and consistently offering expertise in a gracious and helpful way.”

In recognizing Ford, he was noted for “earning the respect and trust of faculty, students, and administration throughout many years of service, and serving as a role model for other faculty.”

Wilkerson was praised for “often going above and beyond what is expected, regularly volunteering to assist anyone, and giving to others while expecting nothing in return.”