Nomination category: Career Achievement

Leula Amaha
Custodian, UW Facilities
Nominated by Dian Gay
Director, Resources & Facilities
Applied Physics Laboratory
Awarded 2025
I am honored to nominate Leula Amaha, a dedicated Custodian at the University of Washington, for the Award of Excellence in Career Achievement. Leula has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her work, exceptional professionalism, and has had profound impact on our department.
Leula has been an integral part of our department’s community for years, consistently exceeding expectations and setting a standard for excellence in maintaining our building. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that our facilities are maintained at the highest level, fostering a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for staff and student alike. This dedication not only enhances daily operations but also supports the success and well-being of everyone who utilizes these spaces.
Tell us why you are nominating this individual
Leula takes great pride in ensuring our facility represents our research in the best possible light. With her attention to detail and unwavering commitment, she plays a vital role in maintaining an environment that reflects the high standards of our work. Our facility frequently hosts visits from congressional staff, high-ranking U.S. Navy officials, and program managers from various funding agencies. Thanks to Leula’s diligence, our facility remains clean, presentable, and impeccably maintained, providing an excellent impression to all visitors.
In addition to daily maintenance, we often need to relocate staff and research projects between rooms, which requires significant preparation, including cleaning, floor waxing, and overall space readiness. Leula’s exceptional focus, efficiency, and dedication in her area ensures these transitions are seamless and completed swiftly, which is critical to meeting tight research deadlines.
What makes this nominee worthy of the DSA?
Her steadfast dedication has contributed to fostering an optimal environment that supports groundbreaking research and success. It is no exaggeration to state that the department’s achievements have been greatly enhanced by Leula’s consistent commitment and exemplary service throughout her career. Her proactive approach includes notifying the team of potential facility issues that might otherwise go unnoticed, demonstrating a deep commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and productive environment.
Dian Gay
Director, Resources & Facilities
Applied Physics Laboratory