Robert Yablans, director of engineering for the Department of Mass Communications and Journalism Studies and volunteer engineer and troubleshooter for the Student Media Board, received Friday the highest honor for a staff member that the university can bestow.At the annual university convocation, Yablans received the Outstanding Service Award for his “can-do” attitude and his willingness to solve computer-related and information technology problems for both students and faculty. “This is really cool,” he said.The eight-year university staff member and DU alumnus was surprised by his nomination.”I received a voice mail notifying me and pretty much fell out of my chair,” he said.The staff member with the most student and faculty online nominations each year wins the award. A modest Yablans gave some of the credit for the award back to those he helps everyday.”While I certainly appreciate the recognition, I have to say that it’s the total team effort that allows me to provide excellent service,” he said. “I wouldn’t have been able to get many things done or provide the excellent service without the help of many students, faculty, staff, departments and key individuals at DU. I am grateful for all of the assistance they have given me over the years.”He will display the “beautiful plaque” in his office in the Mass Communications building, Yablans said, however, his “real reward” is working with the members of the DU community each day.”The students, faculty and staff are my real reward. Providing them with the great technology we have here and showing them how to implement and use it gives me great satisfaction,” said Yablans. “Doing this makes me feel great and makes me want to come in every day.”Yablans was one of eight staff members receiving awards for their service to the University of Denver.In addition, seven faculty members were honored at the annual convocation that is held at the start of the academic year. Wyndol Furman, professor in the Department of Psychology, was named John Evans Professor, the highest honor a DU faculty member can receive.Jack Donnelly, professor in the Graduate School of International Studies, received the Distinguished Scholar Award.The Teacher of the Year Award went to Peter Adler, professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminology.Chancellor Robert D. Coombe delivered the convocation address in which he set the university’s new agenda that emphasizes academic excellence. Coombe was named chancellor in July, succeeding Daniel L. Ritchie, who became chair of the DU Board of Trustees.The eight-year university staff member and DU alumnus was surprised by his nomination.”I received a voice mail notifying me and pretty much fell out of my chair,” he said.The staff member with the most student and faculty online nominations each year wins the award. A modest Yablans gave some of the credit for the award back to those he helps every day.”While I certainly appreciate the recognition, I have to say that it’s the total team effort that allows me to provide excellent service,” he said. “I wouldn’t have been able to get many things done or provide the excellent service without the help of many students, faculty, staff, departments and key individuals at DU. I am grateful for all of the assistance they have given me over the years.”He will display the “beautiful plaque”in his office in the Mass Communications building, Yablans said, however, his “real reward” is working with the members of the DU community each day.”The students, faculty and staff are my real reward. Providing them with the great technology we have here and showing them how to implement and use it gives me great satisfaction,” said Yablans. “Doing this makes me feel great and makes me want to come in every day.”Yablans was one of eight staff members receiving awards for their service to the DU.In addition, seven faculty members were honored at the annual convocation that is held at the start of the academic year. Wyndol Furman, professor in the Department of Psychology, was named John Evans Professor, the highest honor a DU faculty member can receive.Jack Donnelly, professor in the Graduate School of International Studies, received the Distinguished Scholar Award.The Teacher of the Year Award went to Peter Adler, professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminology.Chancellor Robert D. Coombe delivered the convocation address in which he set the university’s new agenda that emphasizes academic excellence. Coombe was named chancellor in July, succeeding Daniel L. Ritchie, who became chair of the Board of Trustees.