Jacob Shalack, facilities supervisor in the Office of Research, was recently recognized with a Patriot Award from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a federal agency that fosters collaboration between U.S. National Guard personnel and reservists with their civilian employers.
The accolade acknowledges Shalack’s readiness to accommodate the duty commitments of National Guard member Brendan Manley, one of his former research assistants at the UGA Marine Institute on Sapelo Island, where Shalack held the position of assistant director for operations and contributed as a research professional for the Georgia Coastal Ecosystems Long-term Ecological Research project. To ensure the continuity of Marine Institute operations during Manley’s service intervals, Shalack implemented a flexible work schedule and cross-training for his staff, enabling both Manley and other colleagues to manage each other’s responsibilities in their absence.
“There were instances when we would receive short-notice calls to report, especially during COVID,” stated Manley, a 21-year military veteran who currently works full time for the Florida Air National Guard as a combat weather forecaster. “I’d often get a call saying, ‘Be there tomorrow,’ and Jacob was consistently very accommodating.
“You can easily discern the exceptional supervisors from those who are just average or simply indifferent [toward service commitments],” Manley remarked. “Jacob was among the exceptional ones.”
Shalack was bestowed the award during a brief ceremony on Jan. 31 at the Coverdell Center. Retired First Sergeant Thomas “Randy” Hardin, vice chair for ESGR’s Georgia office, awarded Shalack his certificate in close proximity to the U.S. Senate medallion set within Coverdell’s lobby. Also present were Chris King, interim vice president for research, and Merryl Alber, professor of marine science and Marine Institute director.
“I am privileged to receive this acknowledgment from the ESGR,” Shalack expressed. “Although the accolade is awarded to the direct supervisor, it truly represents the efforts of the entire team. From Merryl’s leadership to the adaptability and commitment of Brendan and the other technicians, it was a collective endeavor that contributed to our success.
“In general, cross-training enhances the resilience of the team,” Shalack noted. “It was beneficial in multiple ways. Brendan and the other technicians made this process effortless. They were all incredibly adaptable and diligent.”
The Patriot Award is presented to civilians who receive recommendations from a National Guard member or reservist for exceptional service rendered to the nominating service member and their family. It “reflects the dedication shown to support citizen warriors through a variety of measures,” as stated on the ESGR website.
“We are fortunate to have Jacob Shalack as part of our team — previously at the UGA Marine Institute on Sapelo Island and now with our facilities team in Athens,” expressed King. “We are extremely proud of Jacob and thrilled to see him honored with this award.”
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