Rupp, LaFlamme Honored with 2022 Outstanding Staff Awards

Victoria Rupp, assistant to the dean, and Tara LaFlamme, assistant to the associate deans in the Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS) at UMass Amherst, have been selected to receive 2022 Outstanding Staff Awards. Granted annually in recognition of exemplary work ethic, the awards aim to celebrate those who go above and beyond to contribute to their department and foster a positive, successful environment.

Rupp and LaFlamme were cited in nominating letters for being “role models for collaboration within the college” and while taking on a broad range of tasks that ranged from handling calendars to managing scholarships and programs, all at a “high level of professionalism.”  

“Vickie and Tara are rare gems,” says Laura Haas, dean of the college. “Their teamwork and ability to handle anything we throw at them is nothing short of amazing. In the last year, they have at times done the work of five administrative professionals, while still handling extra projects and greeting everyone with a smile. CICS is extremely lucky to have them; they are the glue which has held our college together and made it functional in this chaotic year.”

“I sincerely believe that Tara and I make a great team and that we both work for and with an amazing team of colleagues, including the deans, faculty and staff,” says Rupp. “It has been a pleasure working with everyone in the college over the years.”

“I am thrilled and grateful to be chosen for this award alongside Vickie,” says LaFlamme. “I am blessed to have the opportunity to work with such amazing, supportive colleagues every day and honored to be part of the CICS family.”

Rupp has worked on campus in various roles, including as graduate program manager for the Neuroscience and Behavior Program and personnel assistant in the School (now College) of Education. LaFlamme previously worked as the undergraduate program assistant for CICS’s undergraduate academic programs. A graduate of Holyoke Community College, she received her associate's degree in business administration.

For more information about the award and a list of previous recipients, see: https://www.cics.umass.edu/awards-programs.