College of Arts and Science staff award winners have improved the student experience

By Chris Putnam

Paul Dick and Melissa Kyrejto are the 2025 winners of the College of Arts and Science Dean’s Distinguished Staff Award.

Dick, a Department of Biology instructional lab coordinator, and Kyrejto, the college’s director of undergraduate student services, have both shown dedication to making the College of Arts and Science a better place for students.

Two staff members in the University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Arts and Science are chosen for the award each year. The prize recognizes staff who have distinguished themselves through excellence in work performance and quality of service.

This year, six staff members were nominated for the award. In addition to Dick and Kyrejto, the nominees were Brigitte Bird McGhee (awards officer, Administrative Support Group), Halyna Heisler (finance and administrative manager, Department of Biology), Anna McKenzie (graduate programs clerical assistant, Administrative Support Group) and Chantal Strachan-Crossman (graduate coordinator and office coordinator, Administrative Support Group / Department of Geological Sciences).

The awards were presented at the annual Arts and Science Celebration on April 30 by Dr. Brooke Milne (PhD), dean of the College of Arts and Science. The dean will further recognize the recipients at the May 13 meeting of Faculty Council.

Paul Dick

Instructional Lab Coordinator
Department of Biology

Paul Dick leads the delivery of the laboratory component of BIO 120, the largest undergraduate course in the Department of Biology. Offered year-round with multiple sections of up to 500 students each, this flagship course is relied upon by thousands of USask students each year for their foundational knowledge of biology.

Dick makes every effort to ensure these students have a successful and positive experience. Approachable and enthusiastic, he is always ready to provide guidance and answer questions. Hundreds of students have submitted positive feedback about the BIO 120 lab coordinator.

Dick also leads a team of teaching assistants who find him a patient and understanding mentor. His efficient and organized leadership ensures that labs run smoothly and that the task of teaching BIO 120 is easier for faculty members.

A creative and progressive educator, Dick has played a major role in helping the Department of Biology stay up to date on teaching practices. From developing new course learning outcomes to creating digital ways to deliver labs during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dick has been vital to helping his department adapt to changing times.

Melissa Kyrejto

Director of Undergraduate Student Services
Undergraduate Student Office

In her leadership role in the Undergraduate Student Office (UGSO), Melissa Kyrejto oversees areas that include recruitment, learning communities and student records. She provides mentorship and support to her team while also advocating for the needs of students.

Through years of service, Kyrejto has gained extensive knowledge of student services and administrative practices. Her colleagues often turn to her for information and advice.

Kyrejto has had a crucial role in developing policies and programs that ensure the smooth running of the UGSO. Though her job is demanding and complex, she is quick to lend a hand wherever it’s needed—whether meeting with students or working the front desk—when the office is short-staffed.

Her hands-on approach, along with her empathy, problem-solving skills and personal integrity, has earned Kyrejto the respect of her team. Under her leadership, staff are engaged and motivated even when the work is challenging and deadlines are tight.

Kyrejto’s kindness, quiet leadership and high professional standards help create a sense of community and a positive work environment in the College of Arts and Science.

Related Articles