Recognizing the people who make Rensselaer exceptional
RPI Recognize celebrates the contributions of our employees in ways that reflect our mission and values. Through timely, inclusive, and visible recognition, we can foster a culture of appreciation, collaboration, and professional growth.
Log into our BRAND NEW rewards and recognition platform, Awardco, to start recognizing today!
Strategies for Meaningful Recognition!
- Be specific and concise — focus on what was done and why it mattered.
- Describe the behavior and results, not just the outcome.
- Recognize progress and effort, not only final achievements.
- Pay attention to how each employee prefers to be recognized.
- Leading or contributing to a project with a positive impact.
- Going above and beyond to meet a goal or deadline.
- Delivering exceptional service or addressing a unique need.
- Volunteering at Institute or community events.
- Providing outstanding support to a colleague or team.
- Sharing useful insights or learnings with others.
- Suggesting innovative ideas or process improvements.
- Collaborating effectively across departments or disciplines.
- Demonstrating flexibility or adaptability in changing circumstances.
- Incorporating diverse perspectives into team projects or decisions.
- Use the Awardco platform for public or private recognition!
- Offer a verbal or written thank-you.
- Send a handwritten note or e-card.
- Create a “wall of fame” for customer or peer kudos.
- Host a team lunch, outing, or coffee break to celebrate success.
- Sponsor attendance at a conference or development opportunity.
- Arrange a lunch with a senior leader as a special acknowledgment.
- Pass along a fun, rotating team award or trophy.
- Plan a random act of appreciation or small surprise.
Key Programs Facilitated through our Awardco Platform
Everyday Excellence
Celebrates colleagues who demonstrate RPI’s values in their daily work — collaboration, innovation, service, and excellence.
How it Works:
- Send a quick recognition anytime through the Awardco platform.
- Link your recognition to one of RPI's 8 core values!
- Recognitions can be private or shared on the live feed for everyone to see.
- All faculty and staff can recognize peers, team members, or cross-department partners.
Milestone Moments
Celebrates the moments that matter — big and small.
How it works:
- Automated recognitions will be displayed on the Awardco feed highlighting:
- Years of Service (points earned at key anniversaries)
- Birthdays (automated celebration posts)
New Hires (welcome recognitions on the platform)
- Rewards:
- Employees will accumulate points at certain years of service milestones. You can redeem your points for a wide selection of Amazon items, e-gift cards, RPI swag, experiences, and more!
- YOS milestones with points: 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 20, 35, 40, 45, 50
Forward Together - Annual Staff Awards
Honors exceptional staff whose achievements and contributions drive Rensselaer’s mission forward.
Awards Overview:
Each year, five awards will be presented to staff who exemplify our values and demonstrate outstanding commitment in their roles. A nomination and selection process will be facilitated through the Awardco platform.
Staff Awards:
- Pillar Award (Fortitude) – Recognizes individuals who demonstrate resilience, persistence, grit, and adaptability during high-stress periods or projects.
- Innovation Excellence Award – Honors members of the Rensselaer community who champion creativity, resourcefulness, and forward-thinking solutions that drive positive change.
- Let’s Go Red! Champion Award – Celebrates those who embody RPI’s welcoming and inclusive spirit by fostering collaboration, community, and a strong sense of belonging.
- Rising Rensselaer Award – Recognizes new members of the RPI community (within their first year) who have already made a significant cross-departmental impact.
- Vision in Action Award (Team, Division or Department Award) – Honors a team whose collective efforts exemplify the Rensselaer Forward Plan Core Values and advance the Institute’s mission.
