Employee Recognition Awards

The purpose of the Employee Recognition Awards program is to recognize outstanding employees of the university each semester during the all-employee meeting. (Beginning Fall 2025)

I. Awards

(The ratio of awards to employees is proportionate to the different areas of campus.)

Fall

Disciple Leader Award (Leading Like the Savior) (1 Faculty, 1 Administrator, and 1 Staff)
Exemplary Faculty Award (Teaching and Mentoring) (Faculty Award) (3 Faculty)
The Heart of a Teacher Award (Teaching and Mentoring) (Administrative/Staff Award) (2 Administrators and 1 Staff)

Winter

Jacob Spori Service Award (Sacrifice and Service) (1 Faculty, 1 Administrator, and 1 Staff)

Spring

Spirit of BYU-Idaho Award (Defining Characteristics of BYU-Idaho) (1 Faculty, 1 Administrator, and 1 Staff)

II. Guidelines for Selecting Exemplary Employees

Fall: “Disciple Leader Award” (Leading Like the Savior)

A disciple leader is someone who leads by precept and example, demonstrating humility, compassion, and love, just as Jesus Christ did. They serve others selflessly and live by the principle: “the greatest among you shall be your servant” (Matthew 23:11). Those who embody this spirit lead like the Savior, whether through everyday acts of service ("leadership with a small 'l'") or through impactful, widely recognized efforts ("leadership with a large 'L'").

Fall: Exemplary Faculty Award (Teaching and Mentoring) (Faculty Award)

Elder Henry B. Eyring highlighted the transformative power of education, stating, "The heart of a great teacher is filled with love—for the Savior, for the subject, and for the student." Exemplifying this ideal, great teachers and mentors inspire others through their unwavering dedication, expertise, and genuine care, whether in the classroom or beyond. Their influence fosters learning, growth, and lasting impact.

Fall: “The Heart of a Teacher Award” (Teaching and Mentoring) (Administrative/Staff Award)

Winter: “Jacob Spori Service Award” (Sacrifice and Service)

Principal Jacob Spori demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the academy’s survival during its early, challenging years. As recounted, “The academy struggled to survive that first year. Principal Spori worked hard, unselfishly, and almost single-handedly to see that the school remained open through the first difficult years. When the 1889-1890 school term ended, he felt personally responsible that his stewardship of the academy had not been good enough to avoid a deficit of $177. He suggested to the board that one way to cut the deficit was for him to work on his farm and not draw his salary, but still be available to teach and administer the school. The board agreed. In addition to applying his salary toward the debt, Principal Spori worked on the railroad for a time, using some of his earnings to help pay the salaries of other teachers.” Those who follow his example of consecrated service, personal sacrifice, and a willingness to go the extra mile embody the spirit of this remarkable legacy.

Spring: “Spirit of BYU-Idaho Award” (Defining Characteristics of BYU-Idaho)

President David A. Bednar described the culture of BYU-Idaho as one deeply rooted in faith and love, often referred to as the “Spirit of Ricks.” He explained that this spirit is “the Holy Ghost working through the concerned and caring people at BYU-Idaho.” Today, it is simply referred to as the “Spirit of BYU-Idaho.” It is exemplified by individuals who are gospel-focused, spirit-led, positive, open, and friendly.

III. Award Items

Cash Award
Desktop Trophy
Invitation to attend Devotional and sit on the stand
Invitation to attend Devotional Luncheon
Invitation to sit on the stand at the corresponding All Employee Meeting
Invitation to sit at the front table at the All Employee Banquet (Fall Meeting)

IV. Eligibility

Must be regular ongoing faculty, administrative, or staff employees of BYU-Idaho. (FTE positions)
Recipients are eligible to receive one award every 10 years.