Langer and Wozniak Win Dean’s Staff Awards

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The Riccio College of Engineering has selected Teresa Wozniak as the recipient of the 2026 Dean’s Outstanding Service Award. The purpose of this award is to recognize and reward outstanding service by a staff member to a department and/or to the Riccio College of Engineering.

Matthew Langer was selected as the recipient of the 2026 Dean’s Outstanding Student Support Award, which recognizes a staff member for significant contributions that enrich the student experience and/or have a positive impact on student development in the College. The structure and framing of this article mirror the College’s 2025 staff awards announcement.

Matthew Langer is Undergraduate Academic Advisor for the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and he consistently goes above and beyond in supporting students. The nomination materials for this award contained extensive evidence of Matt’s dedication, empathy, and commitment to student success. Letters from students described not only his effectiveness as an advisor, but also the genuine care he brings to every interaction.

One student wrote that “Beyond academic guidance, Matt showed a genuine investment in my well-being. He checked in during stressful periods, reassured me that my struggles were normal, and created a space where I felt safe being honest about my challenges. His encouragement helped me navigate difficult experiences and reinforced my resilience.” Another student recalled a moment of self-doubt and described how Matt reframed the situation by responding, “You are doing it,” helping the student recognize their accomplishments rather than focusing on perceived shortcomings. The student noted that this shift in perspective became a lesson they continued to use long afterward.

Matt’s impact extends beyond individual advising sessions. Seven Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering faculty members signed his recommendation letter, underscoring the high regard in which he is held across the department. Faculty pointed to data from the 2025 UMass graduating senior satisfaction survey showing that he has been a principal factor in improving student satisfaction with academic advising within CBE. In addition to advising, Matt supports college financial processes, assists with scholarship administration across all engineering departments, and has even stepped in as an instructor when departmental needs required it. Through his dedication to students and his willingness to take on responsibilities well beyond his formal role, Matt has become an invaluable member of both the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Department and the Riccio College of Engineering.

Teresa Wozniak is an Accountant in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, but her contributions extend far beyond the traditional responsibilities of that position. While her primary duties involve supporting faculty and student organizations with purchasing and financial processes, colleagues across the department describe her as an indispensable resource whose role has continually expanded through initiative, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to service.

Recommendation letters from faculty, staff, and students consistently highlighted Teresa’s positive attitude, responsiveness, and determination to help others succeed. One faculty member noted that she has transformed the position into one of the first points of contact for visitors and students entering the department, helping create a welcoming and supportive environment. Her ability to solve problems, answer questions, and guide people through complex administrative processes has made her a trusted resource throughout MIE.

Teresa’s colleagues emphasized that she approaches every challenge with patience, kindness, and a strong sense of responsibility. Whether assisting faculty with purchasing needs, supporting student organizations, or helping department operations run smoothly behind the scenes, she consistently demonstrates a level of dedication that exceeds expectations. Her willingness to take on new responsibilities and her commitment to supporting the department’s mission have made her an essential contributor to Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and to the broader Riccio College of Engineering community. This award recognizes the exceptional service she provides every day.