Staff recognized with Chancellor’s Employee Excellence Awards

 

UW-River Falls staff recognized with Chancellor’s Employee Excellence Awards

July 8, 2026 —  Seven University of Wisconsin-River Falls staff members have been honored with the Chancellor’s Employee Excellence Awards for outstanding service to the university. The awards recognize employees who go above and beyond expectations, actively contribute outside their primary duties and demonstrate helpfulness, teamwork, customer service, a positive attitude and strong work ethic in supporting the fulfillment of the UWRF mission.  

Recipients of the UWRF Chancellor’s Employee Excellence Awards include: 

Rachelle Haroldson, teaching, learning and technical specialist, Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL). 

“Rachelle exemplifies an unwavering commitment to cultivating a welcoming and supportive environment for all,” one nominator wrote. “Despite the significant demands of her work, Rachelle remains highly collaborative and consistently makes herself available to support others. She is a natural connector and bridge builder, demonstrating how strong partnerships can move institutional efforts forward in meaningful ways.” 

Becky Pribnow, Navigate program manager, Student Success. 

“Becky’s contributions over the past 12 years have left a lasting mark on our campus,” a nominator wrote. “She has strengthened the student experience, supported her colleagues and helped move the university forward in meaningful ways. Becky represents the best of UW-River Falls: a commitment to service, a collaborative spirit and a sincere investment in the success of others.” 

Joni Rose, facilities coordinator, Facilities Management. 

“Joni is a dynamic and highly valued member of our team,” a nominator wrote. “She brings a unique combination of tangible energy and steady leadership to everything she does. Her positive attitude and collaborative spirit make her a joy to work with, even during the most demanding projects. She has a natural ability to bring calm, thoughtful insight into challenging situations and she consistently uplifts those around her.” 

Steve Stocker, associate athletics director, UWRF Athletics. 

“What sets Steve apart is not just the breadth of his service, but the manner in which he serves,” a nominator wrote. “He leads with humility, approaches challenges with professionalism and supports colleagues and student-athletes with genuine care. He embodies the values of UWRF and represents the very best of what this award is meant to recognize.” 

Jolene Summers, administrative assistant III, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES). 

“If I am asked to characterize Jolene, ‘dedicated’ and ‘passionate’ begin to describe her commitment to the college,” a nominator wrote. “During the years I have worked with Jolene, she has approached every task as if it is the most important thing to date.” 

David Toles, associate director of Admissions, Enrollment and Student Services.   

“I would say that David is the ‘rock’ of our department, but that is not accurate. David is the boulder,” a nominator wrote. “His calm tone and consistency in showing up for our team and this campus is undeniable and ever-present. Our team and greater university can always count on David to be thorough in his work, dedicated to student success and available for any question you throw at him.” 

Dan Waletzko, laboratory manager, Plant and Earth Science Department. 

“I chose to continue working during the school year because of the positive, growth-oriented environment he cultivates,” a nominator wrote. “His leadership has shaped my skills, my confidence and my academic direction in ways I will carry forward throughout my career.” 

“UWRF employees are part of a cohesive community where everyone knows they are on the same team and all are deeply committed to the success of our students,” said Interim Chancellor John Chenoweth. “I am happy to have this chance to shine a light on the efforts of these outstanding employees. Thank you for everything you do to support the mission of UW-River Falls, to help prepare students to be productive, creative, ethical, engaged citizens and leaders with an informed global perspective.” 

Chancellor’s Employee Excellence Award honorees will be recognized at the All-Campus Awards reception taking place prior to the UWRF fall Opening Meeting Aug. 24.  

Photos: Winners of the UW-River Falls Chancellor’s Employee Excellence Awards. Top row L-R: Rachelle Harolds, Becky Pribnow, Joni Rose. Bottom row L-R: Steve Stocker, Jolene Summers, David Toles, Dan Waletzko. UWRF photos.