May 4, 2023
Congratulations to Brian Underwood!
The Department of Mathematics congratulates Brian Underwood for winning a 2023 Chancellor's Outstanding Staff Awards (COSAs).
Brian is a leader who brings out the best in his team. He creates space for colleagues to be themselves and provides ample support not only for them to succeed but more importantly, for them to feel secure enough to struggle and possibly fail. This courageous approach has a deeply felt impact not only among his immediate colleagues, but within the entire department and all who interact with it. An environment where people feel safe to be themselves, to be vulnerable and take risks, and to try new things, is crucial for any community. Brian has been instrumental in administering a grant from the Equity and Inclusion Committee, and in creating a departmental staff DEIBA+ Committee to build community and connection. Through his thoughtful conduct, open and honest communication no matter how delicate the context, and care for his colleagues and their experiences, Brian has had a lasting impact.