Annually, three staff persons in the Department of Physics are awarded the John G. Whitcomb Distinguished Staff Award. This award was established to recognize exceptional accomplishments, leadership, and service to the Department of Physics and its missions of research, teaching, and service. Award winners received a cash bonus and a trophy which were presented by Chair, Michael Poirier, at the annual Department of Physics Spring Picnic.

This year, Jessica Middleton (Admin for the Institute for Optical Science) was one of the winners of the Distinguished Staff Award!

Prof. Lou DiMauro, IOS director, shares more on nominating Jessi Middleton for the 2024 John G. Whitcomb Distinguished Staff Award. "She has worn many hats, too many in my estimation, and performs these duties with great attention to detail. Her willingness to help is reflected in these actions and her good cheer. I believe that the Whitcomb Award is one way to say 'thank you' for your dedication." 

Prof. Daniel Gauthier shares that "Ms. Middleton went way beyond the call of duty when she was asked to step in to help Prof. Agostini after his Nobel Prize was awarded. She went out of her way to make sure events were organized well... She was on call all the time and available by text, phone, etc. I think a big part of the success of the weekend was due to Ms. Jessi Middleton."