Faculty and Staff Honored with Mission and Culture Awards

University begins new tradition to recognize those who personify SHU’s values

Sacred Heart University recently honored eight faculty and staff members with its first mission and culture awards for their meaningful contributions that reflect SHU’s spirit.

SHU’s office of mission & culture sponsored the awards, which will be presented annually. Matthew Shields, executive director for mission integration, ministry & community engagement, said the recognition is a meaningful way to celebrate the hard work of faculty and staff.

“Our office was eager to celebrate our colleagues’ incredible dedication and unique gifts that bring to life the founding spirit of Sacred Heart University,” he said. “I am extremely grateful to the mission and culture awards committee, which worked with great efficiency and enthusiasm during this process.”

Rising Heart Award

The Rising Heart Award recognizes newer employees who have shown exceptional promise and dedication to the University’s mission, culture and charism. The honor is presented to individuals who showcase SHU’s spirit and values while demonstrating potential for future contributions.

For their embodiment of these qualities, the first-ever winners of the Rising Heart Award are Todd Matthews and Elizabeth Luoma. Matthews is an associate professor and chair of the sociology, criminology & criminal justice department, and Luoma is executive director of the Center for Teaching & Learning.

Action for Justice Award

The Action for Justice Award honors Dorothy Day, a deeply spiritual and courageous leader whose life was a testament to justice, peace and unwavering commitment to the dignity of all people. The award recognizes outstanding service by full-time faculty and staff in developing and nurturing the University as an academic community whose members are inspired and encouraged to live their faith in action for justice and solidarity with those facing adversity.

For their exemplary attitude and service to the University, Colleen Butler-Sweet and Robert Johnson were chosen for the inaugural award. Butler-Sweet is the assistant chair and associate professor in the sociology, criminology & criminal justice department. Johnson serves as the University’s executive director of multicultural affairs.

Outstanding Service Award

The Outstanding Service Award pays tribute to Sister of Charity Donna Dodge for her profound and lasting impact on the SHU community and her unwavering commitment to those most vulnerable. The honor is designed to recognize exceptional service by full-time staff and faculty in advancing the University’s mission as an academic community dedicated to quality, excellence and service to those in need.

SHU presented the award to Elizabeth “Bippy” Luckie and Darcy Ronan for their outstanding service to the community. Luckie, a member of SHU’s athletic community since 1982, serves as the director of athletic financial assistance. Ronan is an assistant professor and STEAM education program director in the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development.

Visionary Leadership Award

The Visionary Leadership Award is given to community members who reflect the character of Pope John XXIII, whose profound faith and visionary leadership inspired the Second Vatican Council. This award recognizes exceptional leadership in service to the University’s mission. Reflecting the pioneering spirit of Sacred Heart’s founders, it honors faculty and staff who lead by example, fostering a university community rooted in excellence, service and mission-driven leadership.

This year’s recipients are Pamela Pillo, MBA ’18 and Charles Gillespie. Pillo serves as the assistant vice president of undergraduate admissions, and Gillespie is an associate professor of Catholic studies. He also serves as the director of the University’s Pioneer Journey program.

Top, from left, are Colleen Butler-Sweet, Charlie Gillespie, Robert Johnson and Elizabeth Luckie. Bottom, from left, are Elizabeth Luoma, Todd Matthews, Pam Pillo and Darcy Ronan.