“Thoughtful, Considerate, Extremely Effective” – Samantha Stilson Receives UPMC Award for Commitment to Excellence in Service (ACES)

Please join us in congratulating Samantha (Sam) Stilson (Grants Specialist III), who has received a 2025 UPMC Award for Commitment to Excellence in Service (ACES) for her outstanding work in the Department of Psychiatry’s Office of Grants and Contracts (OGC). The prestigious ACES award, received by less than 1% of UPMC staff annually, honors individuals who routinely go above and beyond. 

Sam’s nomination included the following comments about her superb work:

“Despite having only worked with Samantha since this summer… I believe she's the best Grants Specialist with whom I've worked in my over 30 years of grants administration… Despite having an unbelievable number of complicated issues to resolve and accounts to keep straight, she always responds quickly in a thoughtful and considerate manner, with effective resolutions… In addition to being extremely effective, Samantha spreads goodwill like sunshine.”

Mariana Rieke, MSHSA, CRA (Director, Office of Grants and Contracts) added, “This award reflects Sam’s outstanding performance, professionalism, accountability, dedication, and deep commitment to our department and the UPMC mission. She brings a positive attitude to her work each day, consistently leading with a smile and an encouraging presence. Her contributions make a meaningful impact through her daily responsibilities and for those we serve. She is a role model and a source of motivation for her colleagues. We are fortunate to have her as part of our team.”

Congratulations, Sam!