College of Arts and Sciences 2025 Outstanding Staff Awards

The College of Arts and Sciences at Case Western Reserve University is proud to recognize its 2025 Outstanding Staff Award winners—three from the college and one valued campus partner—whose dedication, expertise and generosity of spirit make a meaningful difference across our community.

Congratulations to all four honorees—and thank you for the many ways you strengthen the college every day.

Elhoussain Baghach

IT technician, College of Arts and Sciences/[U]Tech

Nominated unanimously by faculty and staff in the Department of Anthropology, Baghach was praised as both a technical expert and a deeply empathetic colleague.

“Elhoussain never acts as if he is too busy to help you,” the nomination letter said. “His unique combination of technical knowledge and empathy mean he is able to help everyone.

“Elhoussain clearly enjoys working with computers but also with people,” the letter continued. “His positive spirit is infectious.”

Daisuke Fujimoto

Department assistant, Department of Modern Languages and Literatures

Fujimoto was celebrated for his professionalism, reliability and unwavering

commitment to service. “He demonstrates remarkable initiative—anticipating needs before they arise and finding efficient, thoughtful solutions to daily challenges,” wrote Damaris Puñales–Alpízar, professor and department chair (currently on sabbatical). “He is a model of excellence and integrity, and his contributions have had a profound and lasting impact on all of us.”

Suzi Mason

Department administrator, Department of Chemistry

With more than a decade of service, Mason was recognized as a cornerstone of her department and a true team player. “Suzi is always there to help with a positive attitude and constructive suggestions,” wrote Professor Geneviève Sauvé. “Suzi combines exceptional interpersonal skills with resourcefulness. It is hard to imagine how we would do without her.”

Jeremy Naab

Senior assistant registrar, Office of the Registrar

As this year’s non-college staff award recipient, Naab was honored for his

exceptional service to the college.

“Jeremy has consistently gone above and beyond in troubleshooting classroom assignments, navigating logistical space constraints, and responding quickly to emerging challenges,” wrote nominator Rebecca Benard, associate dean for academic affairs, undergraduate students and curriculum, and a senior biology instructor. “His collaborative approach and problem-solving mindset have made him an invaluable resource to the College of Arts and Sciences.”