A special commendation for Washington State University faculty and staff who have provided superior customer service.

Submit nomination

Anyone can nominate. See the eligibility guidelines.

About the Program

Crimson Spirit Recognition honors individual employees who provided exceptional service and exceeded expectations while representing WSU to internal or external constituencies. Honorees receive a unique award plaque, special lapel pin, recognition by peers, and university-wide acknowledgment at the annual Employee Recognition Reception.

Crimson Spirit logo featuring a cougar head and the text Crimson Spirit.

Crimson Spirit Recognition Recipients

Previous recipients

Honorees exemplify university values and promote strategic goals through:

  • Expressing genuine interest
  • Anticipating needs and taking appropriate action
  • Following up to ensure an issue is resolved
  • Exceeding expectations
  • Providing superior quality service
  • Creatively solving problems
  • Presenting noteworthy extra effort
  • Providing outstanding contributions to the WSU community
  • Other superior efforts in support of the University’s strategic goals

Eligibility

  • Nominees must be current benefit-eligible Washington State University classified staff, faculty, or administrative professional employees from any University work location. Student and temporary hourly workers are not eligible.
  • Nominees may be recognized once every three years.
  • University affiliates are not eligible for this recognition.
  • Since the program is overseen by Human Resource Services, HRS staff are not eligible for this recognition.
  • Self-nominations cannot be considered.

Nominations

The 2025 nominations will be accepted through:

  • Period 1: November 5 (2024) – February 14 (2025)
  • Period 2: February 15 – June 6
  • Period 3: June 7- November 3

*Any nominations submitted after November 3rd will be considered in 2026

  • Submit a nomination with the nomination form.
  • Nominations can be provided by: WSU faculty, staff, students, or community members.
  • If a nominee is not selected as a recipient, the nominee may be re-nominated in the next period.
  • 4 Winners will be selected each period for a total of 12 winners per year.
  • Winners are selected by the Crimson Spirit Recognition Committee, made up of employees throughout the WSU system.

Crimson Spirit Customer Service Initiative

Learn more on the Customer Service Initiative page.

Questions? Please contact Human Resource Services.