Some may know Samantha Kandilas as the Academic Department Manager for the department of Materials Science and Engineering, but the impact of her 16-year long career has been felt throughout the Faculty. On December 4, Kandilas was recognized for the indelible mark she has made in the Fireball Family when she was named this year’s recipient of the Veronika Czerneda Staff Award for outstanding service.
“I am truly honoured to receive the Veronika Czerneda Staff Award. It’s not just a recognition of my efforts but also a reflection of the incredible support I’ve had along the way, from my mentors, colleagues and family. Thank you for this honour—it inspires me to keep growing and contributing in meaningful ways.”
Kandilas joined McMaster Engineering as an administrative assistant in 2008, and while her current role is overseeing the daily operations of the Materials Science and Engineering department, throughout her tenure, she has proven herself to be an outstanding leader in multiple departments. She has established herself as an exceptional leader and team player within her own unit, but also one who takes on additional tasks and duties well beyond her scope of work.
In addition to fulfilling her full-time duties, Kandilas has spent the past year supporting the Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences (iBiomed) program, which she played an integral role in launching in its inception. She seamlessly ensured that the iBioMed program met all its deadlines and requirements, and her nominators noted her exceptional leadership in managing the complex preparations for Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board accreditation in both departments.
“Despite working a full-time job in her home department, Samantha effectively ensured that iBioMed met deadlines, working closely with staff to ensure no gaps were left unfilled. Having known Samantha for almost 10 years, I always knew she was highly competent and a wonderful team player. What I did not appreciate until recently was just how effective and efficient she is at managing major projects.”
Kandalis has always been there to lend a helping hand to anyone who needs it, says colleague Kristina Trollip, Academic Department Manager of Chemical Engineering.
“Samantha is a true team player. “She is always willing to help colleagues, share her expertise and she is always creating a positive team environment within her department and the Faculty as whole. Her ability to inspire and lead by example makes her an exceptional colleague. She is so deserving of this award!”
This sentiment is echoed by Professor and Chair of Materials Science Engineering Hatem Zurob who praised Samantha for “transforming the atmosphere in the MSE office” and for being an excellent mentor who “inspires others to go the extra mile”.
Beyond the Faculty of Engineering, Kandilas’s expertise and collaborative spirit have made her a go-to person for various central units at McMaster as well. She played a significant role in user-acceptance testing and feedback during the launch of Mosaic and is regularly asked to provide input for scheduling and exams and other campus committees. It is this ability to foster relationships that has made her so well-respected throughout the university.
From building meaningful relationships, supporting faculty and staff and always going above and beyond in her work, Samantha Kandilas’ legacy as an employee is celebrated by many across McMaster.
The Veronika Czerneda Staff Award was named for a staff member from Materials Science and Engineering who passed away in July 2000. It recognizes staff members for their exceptional quality of service, contributions to daily operations, and efforts that enhance the reputation of the Faculty of Engineering.
