Simcoe Hall Vice-Presidential Awards recognizes ITS staff contributions

Published on: December 15, 2020

William Heikoop, Faculty Liaison, Academic & Collaborative Technologies and Jin Fang, Manager, Security Administration, Information Security.

Since 2013, the Simcoe Hall Vice-Presidential Staff Award has recognized University of Toronto (U of T) staff members annually for outstanding contributions to their division and the University. This year, the list of award recipients includes two Information Technology Services (ITS) staff members: William Heikoop, Faculty Liaison, Academic & Collaborative Technologies and Jin Fang, Manager, Security Administration, Information Security. Congratulations!

Both Heikoop and Fang were nominated by colleagues and managers who wanted to acknowledge their exceptional work and dedication to ITS and the University.

Heikoop was nominated by Jeremy Graham, Senior Manager, Operations, Academic & Collaborative Technologies and Laurie Harrison, Director, Online Learning Strategies, for regularly going the extra mile to ensure that program quality and student experience reflect the high standards of U of T. Both nominators agree that Heikoop is committed to the success of each student, instructor and course.

“Known among his peers as a ‘human swiss army knife,’ Will has many tools in his tool belt,” explained Harrison. “He is often called upon to resolve technical issues with a Quercus SCORM content integration, step in to facilitate an online learning-related workshop for a divisional partner or guide an instructor through a pilot implementation of a new technology, such as a virtual lab or open textbook. We are so pleased to see recognition of Will Heikoop’s contribution to the academic mission and inspiration of others as we work collaboratively to support innovation in online learning and address changing community needs.”

Mike Wiseman, Associate Director, Information Security and Isaac Straley, Chief Information Security Officer, nominated Fang for this award to acknowledge her collaborative work across the tri-campus community and her ongoing efforts to inspire her team and pave the way for peers. Mike reflects that Fang has done outstanding work on projects, including co-chairing the committee that is implementing the Display Name feature, which facilitates community members having control over the name they choose to use to identify themselves to others.

“During Jin’s 18-year career at the University, she has provided key technical expertise and leadership in the areas of access to institutional systems,” said Wiseman. “Jin has a key role in the formation and leadership of the Identity and Access Steering Committee, whose work will guide improvements and functionality into the future. It’s a pleasure and an inspiration to be a colleague of Jin Fang.”

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual in-person awards ceremony will not be taking place. However, 2020 award recipients will be recognized at a 2020 & 2021 joint celebration next year if it is possible. In addition, each award recipient receives $250 in True Blue points.

To learn more and view the full list of 2020 Simcoe Hall Vice-Presidential Staff Awards recipients see the official announcement.