Staff News September 2023

The Facilities Management Fleet team was recently honored for multiple accomplishments, including the 2023 Green Fleet Awards. The UVA Fleet team earned the No. 28 spot, the highest score ever by the organization. This is the fourth consecutive year UVA has been recognized as one of the top 50 Green Fleets in North America. The award recognizes peak-performing fleet sustainability efforts and honors fleets who have enhanced practices to make a positive impact on the environment.

The UVA FM Fleet team was also honored for leading the nation's academic institutions by having five staff complete the American Lung Association's Biobased Academy. Fleet team members Mike Duffy, Matt Ball, Devante Dowell, Scott Dudzik and Michael Eldredge completed the program, which trains and educates professionals on the operational, health, safety and environmental benefits of biobased products, which reduce dependence on petroleum products. The United Soybean Board and Virginia Clean Cities presented the honor to the five UVA team members on Aug. 1 during the Resilient Virginia conference held at UVA.

Housing Custodial Assistant Manager for Zone Operations Tanyia Moore (pictured) and Supervisor Michael Minor delivered freeze pops to greeters and RMC staff during Move-In weekend in August.

Ruta Vasiukevicius, document & compliance analyst for the Office of the University Building Official, retired Aug. 25 after almost 22 years. Vasiukevicius first joined the University in December 2001 as an archivist in the Resource Center, part of Geospatial Engineering Services, and served in her most recent role in OUBO since 2018. Throughout her time at the University, she has worked with the construction document archive, identifying process improvements and ways to boost efficiency. In 2011, she was recognized by the UVA Records Management office for her work to support disposal of expired FM records in storage. Prior to joining UVA, Vasiukevicius studied interior design, taught ceramics and worked as a librarian.

Jeff Gibson, HVAC supervisor of Health System Physical Plant Zone 3, retired Aug. 25 after 44 years of service. Gibson first joined the University in August 1979 as an electrician's assistant working the overnight shift Saturdays through Wednesdays on the academic side. He was promoted to AC refrigeration mechanic assistant in 1980 and then joined the first class of the UVA Apprenticeship Program as an HVAC apprentice. He excelled throughout his apprenticeship and was commended for his indicative, his ability to adapt easily to varied and challenging assignments, graduating from the program in 1986. Later he was promoted to lead worker and then supervisor, a role which he served in since 2015. During his time at UVA, Gibson was often commended for his leadership, accuracy and critical shift work coverage which assured patients the best care.

Chester Wood, a former employee of Facilities Management, died Aug. 20. Wood retired in September 2006 after 35 years of service. He started out as a trades helper, working as an electrician and HVAC technician and eventually worked the overnight shift in the Systems Control Center for 17 years. He was also well-known for serving as Santa Claus at the local mall for many years.

Dewey Evans, a former employee of Facilities Management, died Aug. 8. Evans retired July 2007 after 23 years of service in the plumbing shop.

Paul Rood, a former employee of Facilities Management, died July 2. Rood retired in May 2011 after 25 years of service as a construction superintendent. In addition to supporting renovation and construction projects, Rood was heavily involved in the preparations for Final Exercises throughout his years with the University.

Jon Marston, a former employee of Facilities Management, died April 30. He worked as a roofer for 25 years before retiring from the University in September 2021. Marston assisted with many roofing projects within the Academical Village as well as preparations for special events such as the Lighting of the Lawn and volunteer efforts including the Day of Caring.