Celebrating Years of Service
We were thrilled to come together on September 28 for the 2025–2026 University of Arizona Service Awards, recognizing more than 3,000 employees reaching service milestones from 10 to 55 years.
The afternoon brought together more than 600 employees for a spirited celebration of the dedication, experience, and commitment that make the U of A community so special.
The program opened with a performance by the Faculty/Staff Choir, followed by a welcome from President Suresh Garimella. The event was emceed by Christina Rocha, accounting services manager in the Office of Research and Partnerships, and Nikki Reed, assistant professor of practice in the School of Theatre, Film and Television.
Employees reaching 10-, 15-, 20-, 25-, 30-, and 35-year milestones were recognized, with special recognition given to those marking an extraordinary 40, 45, 50, and 55 years of service to the university.
The afternoon ended on a high note with an incredible performance by the Pride of Arizona marching band — a fitting finale filled with Wildcat pride.
Relive the day! Explore the photo gallery and watch videos from the event to revisit some of our favorite moments.
Bear Down, and here’s to the milestones still to come!
2025-2026 Service Award Event Photos
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2025-2026 Service Awardee Mosaics
Mosaic of all photos taken at the event.
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Mosaic of all photos submitted by honorees with event photos.
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Benefits eligible employees who have been at the university for 10 or more years are eligible for Service Awards. Awards are given in 5-year intervals, up to 55 years of service. Staff must be actively employed to receive a service award.
Yes, any employee who is achieving a service milestone is invited to attend the event.
The recognition awards are anticipated to be available on a spring timeline. Additional details and timing will be communicated to eligible employees as the program is finalized.
Refer to the List of Honorees tab where you can sort either spreadsheet by Department/Unit or College.
No, time as a student worker and GA does not count. Only benefits eligible time is counted.
All benefits-eligible time is counted, including prior service. A year of service is credited for any amount of benefits eligible service in that year.
No, the event is just for employees achieving a service milestone. We encourage work teams to celebrate years of service on a local level.
No, only benefits eligible time is counted.
The 2026 Service Awards event is for employees who have achieved a service milestone in 2025 or 2026. All eligible employees will receive an invitation directly to their university email.
No, only your employment at the University of Arizona counts toward your years of service.
Yes, this is considered a work event for employees and should be attended on work time.
If you have questions about access or would like to request disability-related accommodations, such as ASL interpreting, closed captioning, wheelchair access, electronic text, or other accessibility services, please contact the programming team at serviceawards@arizona.edu.