Key Takeaways
- Zack Alumbaugh, an Information Technology Support Associate, has received the 2025 Award of Merit from the University of Illinois Chicago’s Division of Specialized Care for Children.
- The award recognizes exceptional employees for outstanding service to Illinois children with special health care needs and their families.
- Alumbaugh is praised for his patience, creative problem-solving, and genuine empathy in his interactions and challenges.
- He has made significant contributions to the IT team, customer service, and technical issue resolution, earning him recognition as a trusted resource across multiple departments.
- Alumbaugh’s award includes a memento, a $2,500 prize, and recognition from the executive director.
Introduction to the Award of Merit
The University of Illinois Chicago’s Division of Specialized Care for Children has awarded Zack Alumbaugh, an Information Technology Support Associate, with the 2025 Award of Merit. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional employees who have demonstrated outstanding service to Illinois children with special health care needs and their families. Alumbaugh, who joined the Division’s Information Technology team in 2020, has been praised for his unwavering patience, creative problem-solving, and genuine empathy in his interactions and challenges.
Alumbaugh’s Contributions and Achievements
Alumbaugh’s contributions to the Division of Specialized Care for Children have been significant, and his colleagues and managers have taken notice. He has been instrumental in providing reliable support to team members, enabling them to better serve participants and their families. His expertise and caring attitude have benefited every department at the Division, and he has continually found new opportunities to improve processes, leading to better outcomes and services for families. Alumbaugh’s remarkable capacity for communication has established him as a trusted resource across multiple departments, making him a linchpin in the organization.
Alumbaugh’s Perspective and Values
For Alumbaugh, his role at the Division of Specialized Care for Children is more than just a job. He believes that the work they do matters and that it makes a difference in the lives of participants and their families. He considers the Division to be a shining example of how society can come together to care for each other and improve lives. Alumbaugh’s passion and dedication to his work are evident in his interactions with colleagues and participants, and he has been praised for his kindness, support, and willingness to go the extra mile.
Colleagues’ Testimonials and Appreciation
Alumbaugh’s colleagues and managers have nominated him for the Award of Merit, citing his exceptional customer service, technical expertise, and ability to resolve complex issues with patience and professionalism. IT Training and Development Specialist Lynda Miller appreciates how Alumbaugh "pours his heart into his work" and never gives up on tough issues. Director of Information Systems, Security, and Compliance Andrew Nichols praises Alumbaugh’s remarkable capacity for communication, which has established him as a trusted resource across multiple departments. These testimonials demonstrate the high regard in which Alumbaugh is held by his colleagues and the significant impact he has had on the Division.
Alumbaugh’s Background and Personal Connection
Alumbaugh joined the Division of Specialized Care for Children at the encouragement of his mother, Stephanie Alumbaugh, who has worked at the Division for over 20 years and received the Award of Merit in 2011. Receiving the award is a "full-circle moment" for Alumbaugh and his family. He has supported key community outreach events, including the annual Illinois Statewide Transition Conference and the Sensory Station at the Illinois State Fair. Alumbaugh’s personal connection to the Division and his family’s history of service demonstrate his commitment to the organization’s mission and values.
Conclusion and Recognition
The Division of Specialized Care for Children congratulates Alumbaugh on his well-deserved award and recognizes the contributions of all 11 nominees for the 2025 Award of Merit. As the winner, Alumbaugh will receive a memento, a $2,500 award, and recognition from the executive director. The Division’s executive director, Thomas F. Jerkovitz, praised Alumbaugh’s exceptional service and commitment to the organization’s mission, highlighting his unwavering patience, creative problem-solving, and genuine empathy. Alumbaugh’s award is a testament to the Division’s dedication to recognizing and rewarding exceptional employees who make a significant impact on the lives of Illinois children with special health care needs and their families.
