Facilities/Safety/Trades

The Outstanding Staff awards are chosen by nominations received by the Awards Committee from all faculty, staff, and students at VIMS. They are awarded in the categories of Facilities/Safety/Trades, Technical Support, and Administrative Support.

This year, we are pleased to present the Outstanding Employee in Facilities/Safety/Trades to Mr. Steve Gray.

Steve Gray (L) with VIMS Dean & Director John Wells following the VIMS Awards Ceremony. © C. Katella/VIMS.Steve Gray joined the VIMS community in June 2017 as a part-time custodial worker and was promoted to full-time status in May 2018. He mainly works in Watermen’s and Davis halls but is willing to help out wherever needed.

Steve has a warm personality and is appreciated by the VIMS community as someone who will greet you with a smile while taking pride in their daily work. Although Watermen's Hall is an aging building, Steve ensures that it is spotless. When people step foot on the linoleum, it shines like glass and one can literally see their reflection. It is a relief going into a public restroom knowing that it will be clean, with paper towels and soap readily available and trash cans never overflowing. When complimented for a job well done, Steve always responds humbly and graciously, as if he counts it an honor to be able to serve the VIMS community.

When not at work, Steve enjoys spending time with family, cooking a yummy meal, and tinkering with cars. We are proud to count Steve as a part of our VIMS community, and very pleased to be honoring him today with this award.