The Department of Chemistry is delighted to announce that Jeannie Pak, the department’s Manager of Finance and HR Administration, has been awarded the prestigious Dean’s Outstanding Administrative Service Award for 2024-2025.
The award is given to an administrative staff member who has earned the respect of their colleagues and whose outstanding contributions to administrative service have made a positive impact on teaching, research, or general administration.
Pak said she was deeply honoured and humbled to receive the award. “The news came as a complete surprise and made me reflect on what an incredible journey it has been—nearly 30 years working at the University.”
"I am genuinely grateful to the Chemistry award team for taking the time to recognize my contributions and for their efforts in the nomination process. As both a U of T alum and an employee, I feel fortunate to have experienced the University from multiple perspectives. It's been a privilege to support the University's academic mission through my administrative work.”
“Jeannie has the formidable task of managing all aspects of our finances and human resources in the business office,” said Chemistry Chair Mark Lautens, praising Pak’s exceptional dedication and commitment to the success of the Department.
"Her leadership and dedication have created a positive and supportive work environment. She has earned the respect of her direct reports and administrative colleagues through her unwavering commitment to our department's success."
Lautens added, "She enables others to grow and succeed through feedback, instruction, and encouragement."
Pak, who has worked for the past 16 years in the Department of Chemistry, said it continues to be an exciting and rewarding experience. “My role offers many opportunities to contribute—from managing complex operating budgets and research grants to navigating HR administration. I find supporting the department's teaching and research efforts both fulfilling and meaningful.”
“While navigating the complex University's policies and procedures and providing timely advice and adequate resources can sometimes be challenging, I've come to embrace and find it rewarding.”
Faculty and staff who supported the nomination were also quick to mention Pak’s expertise, professionalism and patience, according to Lautens. Managing Chemistry’s business involves close work with over 40 principal investigators, 250 graduate students and about 60 postdoctoral fellows at any given time, he noted, not to mention a large contingent of staff in the business, academic, labs, and technical facilities.
Asked if there was anything she was most proud of about her time at Chemistry, Pak said, "Looking back, one of my most proud accomplishments is helping improve the department's financial standing shortly after I joined.”
“I realized that foundational work has supported the department in meeting its many goals over the years, and I'm proud to have played a role in that continued success.”
The Dean’s Outstanding Administrative Service Award recognizes the vital role Jeannie Pak plays in the Department's affairs, and serves as testament to its recipients' unwavering dedication, and deep institutional knowledge. The Department can look ahead to a future where her leadership and contributions continue to further Chemistry's mission of excellence in teaching and research.