Engagement & Recognition

Employee Engagement and Recognition at the University of Denver

At the University of Denver, engagement and recognition work hand-in-hand to create a culture where employees feel valued, connected, and inspired. Engagement is the emotional and cognitive commitment employees have toward their work, their colleagues, and DU’s mission—expressed through enthusiasm, dedication, and a sense of purpose. Recognition reinforces this commitment by celebrating contributions and milestones that reflect DU’s values.

Signature programs highlight this alignment: the You Rock! Awards offers peer-to-peer recognition, empowering employees to appreciate one another in meaningful ways. The Years of Service Awards honor long-term dedication at 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50-year milestones, underscoring DU’s gratitude for sustained contributions. Employee appreciation events, held in partnership with DU Athletics every year in January, provide opportunities for connection and celebration across campus. Additionally, Faculty and Staff Awards spotlight exceptional achievements in teaching, research, and service. Together, these initiatives foster belonging, motivation, and pride in being part of the DU community.

DU Employee Engagement Survey

The University is committed to being an exemplary employer through strengthening faculty and staff engagement. This employee engagement survey is one of several information-gathering methods meant to help leaders and teams think holistically about their strengths and challenges. Follow-up surveys will be held in the future.

You Rock! Program Recognition

The You Rock! Program encourages faculty and staff to recognize each other for small and large accomplishments. Nominate a colleague today for a You Rock! Award and look back on members of our community who were recognized in the past.

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