Rutkowski Receives Nancy Gray Award
While his responsibilities as grants manager may require more interaction with faculty and staff at Rider, Michael Rutkowski ’91, M.B.A. ’95 also serves as a mentor to students and a supporter of activities at the University.
“It’s not just a job to me. I believe in the University’s mission,” said Rutkowski, who started working at Rider in 2001. “I try to stay involved in all aspects of the University and I try to get other people involved.”
Whether he is helping a faculty member apply for a grant, cheering on the swimming team or being involved with the Annual Fund Faculty/Staff Campaign and Faculty and Staff Alumni Association, Rutkowski’s dedication to and pride for Rider is immense. His commitment to the University was recognized when he was named the 2009 recipient of the prestigious Nancy Gray Award at Rider’s University Day on April 7 (click here to view the University Day photo gallery).
“I believe that Michael exemplifies the spirit of Rider University and lives and gives that spirit in every aspect possible,” said Betty McErlean, director of the Budget Office, who nominated Rutkowski.
The award, named for Nancy Gray, former vice president for Development and University Relations, honors a member of the faculty or staff who exemplifies campus leadership, involvement, school pride/spirit and community service.
Rutkowski said he felt “shocked, honored and humbled” when he had learned that he had received the award.
“I know a lot of people on campus who are involved in many things. They are my inspiration,” he said.
As grants manager, Rutkowski helps faculty and staff apply for grants from the federal government. While he might not always understand the research terminology, Rutkowski enjoys learning about their work and latest discoveries. In his role, Rutkowski also works to get funding for Student Affairs, Educational Opportunity Program and Student Support Services (SSS). He attends their awards banquets, supports students and occasionally tutors SSS students in accounting.
Rutkowski also serves as co-adviser for the Rider Gay-Straight Alliance, VOX (Voices for Planned Parenthood) and the Japanese Pop Culture Society. Among the three organizations, he advises a total of 100 students. For last three years, Rutkowski has also taught Freshmen Seminar, which gives first-year students an overview of campus life, including time management, drop/add period policy and student organizations.
Recently, Rutkowski was asked to advise an upcoming service trip to Costa Rica in May. Thirteen students will build a playground, work on a school house and tutor school students in the town of Pacayitas.
“Student interaction allows me to get a good vibe of campus life,” said Rutkowski, who also supports University events, including theater, athletics and guest speakers. “I love my job as grants manager and as an adviser. Working with students makes it worthwhile. We do amazing things here at the University.”
Dave Keenan, director of Campus Life, said Rutkowski has been nominated for the award for the past four years.
“I think it is extremely well deserved and long overdue,” Keenan said.
