Two staff members from the International Institute (II): Evan Vowell, external grants manager, and Rachel Levy, Wallenberg Medal and Lecture program coordinator, received 2025 LSA Staff Awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the university.
Notably, both social sciences division awards—the Kay Beattie Outstanding Individual Award and the Rising Star Award—were awarded to II staff this year, highlighting the value of their work within LSA and across campus.
Evan Vowell received the Kay Beattie Outstanding Individual Award, which honors a staff member who contributes beyond the ordinary fulfillment of duties and demonstrates a willingness to take on increasing levels of responsibility.
As external grants manager, Evan supports the II’s centers and programs by collaborating with directors and staff to secure and manage external funding. His work in navigating grant requirements, coordinating submissions, and ensuring compliance plays a critical role in sustaining global research, education, and outreach across the institute.
Rachel Levy received the Rising Star Award, which is presented to a staff member with fewer than three years of service who has already made significant contributions and shows strong promise in her role.
As program coordinator for the Wallenberg Medal and Lecture, Rachel manages all aspects of one of the university’s most visible public events. The Wallenberg Medal and Lecture recognizes outstanding humanitarians whose work perpetuates the legacy of University of Michigan alumnus Raoul Wallenberg’s extraordinary accomplishments and human values. She is currently preparing for the 2025 Wallenberg Lecture, which will feature Vladimir Kara-Murza on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 4:30 PM at Rackham Auditorium. More information is available at wallenberg.umich.edu.
Vowell and Levy were formally recognized at the 2025 LSA Staff Awards Ceremony, held Thursday, May 29, at the Mendelssohn Theatre. Their recognition highlights both the dedication of II staff and the importance of their work in advancing U-M’s global mission.
Please join us in congratulating Evan and Rachel on this well-deserved recognition.
