Dorian McMillan, Senior Laboratory Administrator in the Department of Biology, is one of three staff members whose services have been recognized with this year’s Dean’s Pillar of Excellence Award.
Her colleagues in Biology describe her as proactive and self-motivated — always seeking out new opportunities to improve processes and achieve better outcomes. They also say she approaches challenges with optimism and resilience, inspiring her colleagues to do the same.
“She doesn’t wait for instructions but instead takes the initiative to identify and address challenges, often coming up with innovative solutions,” read her nomination letter.
This past year, McMillan was asked to co-lead a faculty group charged with ideating ways tomake the Biology curriculum more inclusive. Her colleagues praised the useful and powerful perspectiveshe brought to the table.
McMillan also helped lead a review of the undergraduate curriculum, liaising with external partners and pulling data that help programs make evidence-based decisions.Her colleagues say her positivity “not only boosts morale but also enhances productivity and collaboration.”