Sergio Vega Travel Grants

This award honors a longtime member and supporter of NAOSMM, Mr. Sergio Vega. Sergio joined NAOSMM in 1982 and immediately made contributions to the organization. Sergio was named Manager of the Year in 1985. He was also elected to a two year term as NAOSMM President in 1987. Sergio hosted the 22nd Annual Conference and Trade Show in Chicago in 1995. Sergio also earned his CSMM in 1996. In 2000, Sergio was recognized with a Distinguished Service Award for his many years of service and dedication to NAOSMM.

Sergio is now a lifetime member living in Africa. Sadly, Sergio suffers from a debilitating disease that has robbed him of his ability to move or speak, but his eyes and smile still speak volumes. Our organization was enriched by his kindness and his charming demeanor and we are proud to have this award as a tribute to our very special friend.

Mary Ann Stoll
^{Idaho State University}

Thank you, Mary Ann, for a outstanding job hosting the 2009 conference!

Dale Randall
^{University of Minnesota}

Dale Randall, Senior Stores and Delivery Manager in the Chemistry Department at the University of Minnesota where she was employed for forty-two years.

Not present, but also receiving Lifetime Membership status is Jill Rench, Coordinator of Accounting for the Chemistry Department at the University of Florida.

Barbara Neff
^{Saint Joseph's University}

Barbara Neff, Chemistry Resources Coordinator at Saint Joseph's University was presented the 2009 NAOSMM Manager of the Year Award. The presentation was made by Carolyn Grand of Kimble Chase Life Science and Research Products.

In support of Barbara's nomination, many letters were submitted by the Chair of her department, faculty and students, vendors and NAOSMM members, all stating their high regard for Barbara. Barbara is exceptional in dealing effectively with faculty, staff, students, vendors, Facility Maintenance, and external contractors. Additionally, during the last six years, the renovation of the teaching labs and faculty offices placed more burden on Barbara's shoulders which she dealt with calmly and professionally.

Barbara has had a mentoring effect on stockroom managers outside the Chemistry Department. She has advised new hires in regards to purchasing, vendors and University protocols. She is a trusted colleague in her department providing immeasurable help in initiating and sustaining faculty members research programs.

Barbara's interest in helping in any way that supports the mission of the Chemistry Department and University is truly what sets her apart. She serves on the University's Safety Committee and Medical Insurance Committee. She was instrumental in assisting the University through a self-audit of EPA and OSHA compliance issues.

Barbara is co-author of an article on the topic of hands-on chemistry experiments and the proper use and storage of chemicals (McDuffie, T.E., Jr., Longo, J., and Neff, B. (1999). Handle with care. The Science Teacher, 66(6), 32-36. A faculty member in her department was quoted as saying, "If you want something done, you go to Barbara. Students, faculty, department chairs all come and go, but through them all Barbara has been, and remains, the backbone of the Department of Chemistry."

Barbara has been a NAOSMM member since 1984 and has a long service history with our organization. She has served as Co-Host of two Philadelphia conferences (1992 & 2004). She has also been the Co-Editor of the Newsline for over 15 years and still serves in that position. Barbara has also served as Chair of the Nomination Committee. She is an inspiration and model of dedication to both Saint Joseph's University and NAOSMM.

Congratulations, Barbara! This award is an honor you well deserve.