Published 5/27/25
Story contact: Liz Alexander, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photo by Abbie Lankitus

Each year during Staff Recognition Week, the University of Missouri presents the Outstanding Staff Awards to recognize staff achievement and excellence. Each award celebrates those who go above and beyond, setting the standard for excellence, dedication and impact.

In what may be the most rewarding job on campus, a committee of Staff Advisory Council members and staff-at-large select honorees after carefully reviewing nominations submitted by colleagues, students, alumni and retirees.

This year, Waleed Atout, the College of Veterinary Medicine’s business and finance officer, received the James P. Pace Continuous Improvement Award.

About the award

This award, established in 2023 by James Pace, Mizzou alumnus and retired owner and CEO of ROM Corporation, is given annually to an employee who demonstrates innovation, process improvement, change leadership, efficiency and/or effectiveness gains for the university.

Nominators said Atout is a driving force behind improved financial transparency and smarter decision-making within the College of Veterinary Medicine. During a time of leadership transition, he took the initiative to evaluate how staff time and effort align with funding sources, giving the college clearer insight into staffing needs and resource allocation.

Through collaborative cost assessment with clinical staff, Atout achieved better understanding of the true expenses of services provided. This in turn led to more accurate and sustainable pricing strategies. His efforts have created lasting, meaningful change, and have set a new standard for operational excellence at Mizzou.