08/21/2026
Biology is excited that Jan Hawes has been named the 2026 Emory College of Arts and Sciences Employee of the Year! No one else is more deserving of this recognition. Jan is also celebrating 35 years at Emory.
Jan exemplifies the 'I Am Emory' philosophy through her unwavering dedication to maintaining a safe, functional, and welcoming environment for everyone in the Biology Department. She consistently demonstrates that the success of our faculty, staff, and students is her top priority, always ensuring that the needs of the department are met with efficiency, professionalism, and genuine care. Over the years, she has proven herself to be a steady and dependable presence during some of the department's most challenging moments, including responding to multiple flooding incidents and power outages that threatened both ongoing research and the safety of the building's occupants. In each instance, Jan acted swiftly and decisively, coordinating with facilities teams, notifying the appropriate personnel, and implementing protective measures to safeguard valuable equipment and ensure the continuity of departmental operations. Her genuine care for the people she serves is reflected in the small but meaningful ways. Jan's calm and composed leadership during times of crisis, combined with her steadfast day to day commitment to this community, are the very qualities that make her a true embodiment of the 'I Am Emory' spirit.
