UK Outstanding Staff Awards: Paul Masterson

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 14, 2026) — As the University of Kentucky approaches this year’s Outstanding Staff Awards, the UK Staff Senate continues to celebrate the recipients of the 2025 Outstanding Staff Awards, announced earlier this year, by highlighting the excellence, dedication and meaningful contributions of each honoree.

Winners were nominated by peers, faculty and students across campus, reflecting the depth of talent and commitment among UK staff. Finalists were selected in student, faculty, staff and overall award categories, with one recipient chosen in each category.

Among the honorees is Paul Masterson, facilities supervisor and woodshop coordinator in the UK School of Art and Visual Studies in the College of Fine Arts. He received the 2025 faculty-nominated award.

“Receiving an Outstanding Staff Award was a great honor and made all the more special by being in the faculty-nominated category,” Masterson said. “Working with many colleagues at the School of Art and Visual Studies, College of Fine Arts and broader campus is one of the most rewarding aspects of my position. I’m appreciative of our varied collaborations, and thankful to those who took the time to put my name forward.”

As part of his nomination, faculty describe Masterson as someone whose impact extends far beyond his job description. Known for his craftsmanship, creativity and willingness to help others, he regularly supports faculty, staff and students with projects large and small. During a recent Lighting Studio shelving project, Masterson worked alongside a faculty member for months, improving designs, sharing expertise and helping create a better finished product than originally envisioned.

His resourcefulness has also benefited the school in unexpected ways. While visiting campus surplus, Masterson recognized a discarded laser cutter that could be repaired and put back into use. His initiative helped bring equipment valued at more than $16,000 to the school, expanding opportunities for students and faculty.

Masterson is equally known for his reliability and collaborative spirit. Since joining the School of Art and Visual Studies, he has improved the woodshop’s organization, equipment and safety while creating a welcoming environment where students and colleagues can seek guidance and learn new skills.

Beyond his day-to-day responsibilities, he volunteers with UK’s Campus Wood initiative, which transforms downed campus trees into usable lumber for student projects, and supports school events and fundraising efforts.

“My role at UK allows me to utilize my background as a woodworker, artist and designer in many ways,” Masterson said. “I get to work with students from many disciplines and backgrounds; from freshman possibly making something by hand for the first time, to graduate students working on complicated projects. Getting to share my enthusiasm for fabrication and teaching them skills they can use in their own work is very rewarding.”

Winners of Staff Senate’s 2026 Outstanding Staff Award will be announced in December. In the coming weeks, UKNow will highlight winners of the 2025 awards.

The UK Staff Senate is the official representative body of university staff. Through shared governance, the Staff Senate elevates staff perspectives, strengthens communication with university leadership, and promotes collaboration among employees across the university. Staff Senate advocates for staff interests, supports a positive workplace experience and recognizes the people whose work advances the university’s mission and service to the Commonwealth. Learn more about Staff Senate and the Outstanding Staff Awards at staffsenate.uky.edu.