About employee service awards
Last updated: September 22, 2025
Celebrating your service at UW
At the University of Washington, your work matters. Every day, UW staff help educate the next generation, push the boundaries of research, and build a stronger, more compassionate community. You are a vital part of what sets UW apart—we don’t just witness change; we make it happen together.
A work anniversary marks more than a passage of time—it tells the story of dedication, growth, and meaningful impact. Whether it’s your first year or your 25th, every milestone is worth celebrating.
While we encourage department level celebration at 1- and 3-year milestones, staff become eligible for official UW service awards beginning at year 5 and every five years thereafter (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20 years).
Program eligibility
You are eligible for service recognition if:
- You are in a regular staff position in active status on your continuous service anniversary, or
- You are on an approved leave of absence (your award will be presented when you return to work).
Note: Faculty, academic personnel, student employee, and intermittent and non-permanent staff positions are not eligible for this program.
How is service measured?
Service is calculated based on your Company Service Date. This reflects your most recent hire date into a regular UW staff position. Time on the layoff list is not deducted unless you are removed from the list before rehire, in which case your service date resets.