Day Three: Staff Awards

[Oddas Aria]

Welcome to Day Three of the Annual Awards Ceremony 2023!

 

The Staff awards exclusively honor members who have achieved the rank of Commander or higher.  Like year's past, the Fleet's first officers to gather input and filter the nominees for each staff award. Their recommendations are instrumental in helping the EC (Executive Committee) decide the recipients for each accolade. We deeply appreciate their valuable feedback and guidance, as they significantly contribute to the success of our staff awards.

These awards are a celebration of the remarkable efforts made by our community members who consistently go above and beyond to create an exceptional experience for everyone involved. Behind the scenes, there is a substantial amount of work involved in keeping our community thriving, and these individuals play a pivotal role in making it all happen.

 

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Staff Member of the Year Award

Awarded to Staff Members who have contributed tirelessly to the organization through any number of Out of Character channels, while maintaining excellence in simming on their vessel. This is an award granted to any staff member, regardless of rank.

Serala
Presented by Roshanara Rahman

Serala’s player Jim is best known as the first officer of USS Astraeus, a duty post he’s served in faithfully for the past four years, beginning on the USS Atlantis under Jarred Thoran’s command. After Thoran’s sudden departure just as the crew were looking to begin their next adventure aboard USS Chin’toka, Jim’s steady hand led his crew through the transition to the ship’s next captain, Mei’konda. During this time, Jim worked diligently with the Executive Staff to ensure as smooth a transition as possible, and in the nearly two years since that challenging moment, Jim has continued to show that tireless and steadfast service not just to his ship but to the entire StarBase 118 RPG community in his roles as Chat Team facilitator, Training Team instructor, Academy Statistician, and a member of the Image Collective.

In each of these roles, Jim contributes regularly to the needs of the organization, a cycle of repeated and oftentimes “silent” service that defines so much of what it means to be a staff member in the fleet. Statistics and paperwork need to be filed for the StarBase 118 Academy to function, but it is rare that the cadets or even other Training Team members participating in a class are ever made explicitly aware of the work that goes on behind the scenes to keep vital spreadsheets updated and forms filled. Likewise, while the highlights of the monthly chat sessions on our Discord are the fun updates and stories shared by each of our ships’ members that participate, it is only through the guiding moderation of the Chat Team facilitator that a coherent and enjoyable discussion is able to be had among the large number of people gathered without descending into chaos.

In his role as Chat Team facilitator, Jim has worked on how to expand the moderated chat fleet events beyond just the traditional monthly fleet chat to also include fleet watch-alongs and other special events like the annual trivia challenge. He has overseen the expansion of the chat schedule to include times that are more inviting to our members in Asia and Oceania, and he has always been an enthusiastic supporter of finding new ways to engage our members in our fleet’s chats, especially in the new era of using Discord. Returning to his work as First Officer, both Jim’s captain Aaron as well as his nominations for this year’s Award Ceremony highlight his work as a patient and thorough mentor, a skillset that he has honed not only from his time on his ship but as a dedicated member of the Training Team.

As Jim continues in his constant service to his ship and the wider organization, I look forward to seeing how and where next in the fleet he will apply his dedication and the leadership lessons he’s learned from the challenges he’s tackled. Congratulations and thank you, Jim!
 

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Sarek Star

 

Awarded to Commanding Officers who show great diplomatic ability in working with members and staff, related to conduct Out of Character. Organisation, collaboration, mentorship, and ultimately making our game tick can be challenges in every respect, but those Staff Members awarded with this have a clear ability to walk those lines.

Rivi Vataix
Presented by Quinn Reynolds

It’s something of a running joke that Rich and I so often start a discussion with entirely opposing viewpoints. You might think with constant disagreement like that, there’d be an undercurrent of hard feelings. I’m happy to say that couldn’t be further from the truth! He is someone for whom I, and so many others, hold an incredible amount of respect, admiration, and affection for. And in so many ways, that’s down to his ability to communicate effectively with other people.

His ability to hear what you’re saying, his thoughtful responses, his dedication and care for others, his talent to lighten the mood with a well-timed joke, his willingness to compromise (with grace!) when needed, all make for a remarkable diplomat. Even more so when you consider how our communication is almost entirely text-based, absent the nuances of expression and tone. He’s so very deft in handling discussions, and I often walk away from a conversation with Rich having learned a way to improve my own communication.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how the nominations talked about how much his crew admires his diplomatic abilities, and how much his handling of challenging situations has influenced them. They see someone who has nurtured his communication skills, who is willing to seek the advice and opinions of others to ensure he does his best for his crew, always striving to always be kind and fair, yet knowing when it’s necessary to be firm. It’s a tricky balancing act, and he pulls it off with aplomb.

Congratulations Rich, and thank you!
 

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James T. Kirk Cross

Awarded to new Commanding Officers who show outstanding potential in the field of commanding. Their advancement into commanding their own ship can be fraught with challenges, but the receiver of this award has met them head on with vigour.

Karrod Niac
Presented by - Lia Rouiancet

Oh man, am I ever proud to award this year’s James T. Kirk Cross to Brian, aka Karrod Niac! Brian's journey to command has been marked by outstanding leadership, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the growth of both his crew and the 118 fleet. As CO of the Ronin, Brian has demonstrated incredible skill and passion and united a diverse group of simmers, integrating veterans and newcomers alike into a cohesive, engaged ship. The Ronin's consistent high activity and large number of sims are a testament to Brian's ability to inspire and motivate his crew.

What sets Brian apart, and sets his command up for (what I hope will be) many years of success, is his inclusive leadership style. His open-door policy and genuine interest in every crew member, from ensign to first officer, have created an environment where everyone feels heard, respected, and valued. This approach has fostered a supportive and dynamic atmosphere that encourages creativity and participation from all.

Brian's talents extend beyond his ship. His recent appointment as magistrate of the CC showcases his commitment to the broader fleet community. His involvement behind the scenes and his willingness to take on additional responsibilities demonstrate his dedication to the success of Starbase 118 as a whole.

As a simmer, Brian continues to impress everyone around him (and even those who are just looking from afar — guilty!) with his ability to craft engaging missions that challenge pre-established lore, bridging the past and future of our shared universe. He flexes his well-developed storytelling muscles and creates exciting opportunities for character development and growth, keeping his crew consistently engaged and enthusiastic.

Brian's leadership is characterized by patience, reason, and balance. He navigates challenges with a level head, offering guidance and support to his crew even in difficult situations. His positive attitude and problem-solving skills make him an invaluable resource and an inspiring example to those around him.

Brian has not only met the challenges of command but has exceeded expectations, growing into a captain that his crew and the entire fleet can be proud of. His exceptional leadership, dedication to his crew and the fleet, and his ability to create a thriving, supportive community on the Ronin make him an incredibly deserving recipient of the James T. Kirk Cross. His command embodies the spirit of this award, demonstrating the qualities of an outstanding leader who inspires those around him to reach new heights. Congratulations, Brian!
 

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Honor of the Admiralty

Awarded to Staff Members who have served for a minimum of five years in a multitude of disciplines. From facilitating our task forces, engaging with the Captains Council, and leading with the utmost dedication, these writers volunteer their time, effort, and skill to building our game and community and have comprehensively earned the respect and loyalty of members. This is the highest award that can be conferred upon a StarBase 118 PBEM RPG staff member under the rank of Rear Admiral.

Ash MacKenna
Presented by - Addison MacKenzie

I have the distinct pleasure of awarding Marissa the Honor of the Admiralty. Not only have I been the beneficiary of her leadership and friendship over many years now, she has made an indelible mark on this organization’s history. As one of our longest-serving writers, she is also one of the most decorated, having earned many of the highest IC and staff level awards we offer, and receiving the Honor of the Admiralty is a recognition of both her length and depth of service.

If you look into Marissa’s long bank of characters, you’d be hard-pressed to find a duty post for which she hasn’t written or a service award she hasn’t won, and this includes extensive service as a commanding officer. In the time that I’ve known her (and certainly well before that), she has always been happy to jump in where necessary, to fill whatever role is needed, or lend a hand without being asked.   

This certainly extends just as much to her OOC involvement in the fleet. In addition to having received recognition for her long-term achievement in the Publicity Team via the Shuvalis Diamond, she is currently a Deputy Commandant of the Academy and the facilitator for the Social Media Team, as well as being a former Captains Council Magistrate and having her hands in so many other staff-level elements of this organization over the years.

I think I would be both reasonable and accurate in saying few areas of Starbase 118 haven’t been impacted by Marissa at some point during her long tenure. …Except maybe the wiki. I know she’s not a big fan of the wiki.

I can’t think of a more deserving recipient for this award. Many, many congratulations, Marissa!
 

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Christopher Pike Pendant

Awarded to Commanding Officers who command their ship with honor and dedication, and help to provide an creative atmosphere which fosters outstanding simming. Not only do they lead by significant and exceptional example, but they engineer their vessels to be inspirational and creative powerhouses for all who sim on board.

Addison MacKenzie
Presented by - Lia Rouiancet

First, I want to say congratulations, Matt, for setting a sterling example of what it means to be a commanding officer in the 118 fleet. Your contributions have not only enriched the Artemis but have raised the bar for leadership across the entire community. 

Matt's journey as a commanding officer and a pillar of the fleet has been nothing short of remarkable. Since taking command of Artemis, he has proven himself again and again to be a powerhouse of a leader, guiding not only his ship but the many OOC groups, teams, and task forces he lends his expertise to, including this year (and very deservedly) the Executive Council.

Under Matt’s stewardship, the Artemis has not only reached a strong and stable position in sim rates but has also evidenced an environment of unprecedented crew stability. The Artemis’s Discord (both public and staff) was noted by one nominator as a testament to his dedication, and Matt’s presence creates a dynamic and interactive atmosphere that keeps his crew consistently motivated and inspired.

Matt's leadership style is characterized by his ability to stay ahead of challenges. He demonstrates an impressive knack for anticipating issues and addressing them head-on, often delegating tasks effectively to his staff. When faced with unexpected situations, Matt's quick thinking and decisive action clearly demonstrate his adaptability as a leader, whether that’s in response to an unexpected plot twist in the sim or a timely issue on the Captains or Executive Council.

The stability and success of the Artemis crew under Matt's leadership speak volumes about his abilities as a captain. He’s dedicated to mentoring and guiding his simmers, and is never afraid to tackle a difficult situation. A nominator noted a particular circumstance in which Matt easily worked with a challenging simmer who consistently pushed the boundaries of realism in their sims. Matt's approach to this situation — helping the simmer understand the consequences of their character's actions and guiding them towards more appropriate and realistic storytelling — demonstrates his dedication to maintaining the integrity of the shared story while supporting individual growth.

Matt's exceptional leadership, his commitment to nurturing his crew's talents, and his ability to navigate challenges with grace and wisdom make him a most deserving recipient of the Pike Pendant. His captaincy embodies the spirit of this award, demonstrating the qualities of a steward who not only leads but inspires and elevates those around him. Matt, the 118 fleet is incredibly lucky to have you!
 

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Chief's Citation Award

Awarded to essential Staff Members whose determined work has benefitted the group In Character, and/or Out Of Character, even while their primary service was not as the Commanding Officer of a simming installation. Inspired by the non-commissioned and enlisted personnel who are the backbone of any starship but were rarely recognized in Star Trek lore in favor of the officers.
 

Alora DeVeau 
Presented by Quinn Reynolds

I can hardly think of anyone more deserving of this award than Amanda! A long-time member of the fleet, she has poured an incalculable amount of her time and energy into various pursuits over the years. She’s a driving force in the Newsies team, organising and conducting interviews for our several features; not just an interesting read for our current members, but a huge help in showing the world that we’re both an active and engaging place to join.

In a similar vein, she’s a friendly face to many of our new members; often on hand to greet new people and answer their questions when they join our Discord server, regularly taking part in Academy classes to train them, and maintaining contact via normal and cross-ship simming after their graduation. All of this greatly contributes to a positive experience for those who join us, and we’re not at all suspicious that she’s using the African violets she hands out as part of a long-term plan for insurrection.

Her ship also benefits from her enthusiasm and commitment to making the fleet a welcoming and fun place to be. She’s a kind and dedicated mentor, ensuring that anyone under her wing enjoys regular check-ins, sound advice, and thoughtful guidance. We’re fortunate to count her as one of our members, and is definitely numbered among those we consider the backbone of the fleet. Thank you for everything you do, Amanda, and congratulations on being this year’s winner of the Chief’s Citation Award!
 

 

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Strange Medallion

Awarded to First Officers in the fleet who are consistently dependable, perform above the call of duty in their position, and excel not only in simming, but also in their dedicated Out of Character activities. Those awarded are regarded as leaders who excel in their facilitation of their crew, raising the bar and lifting up simmers to the podium. Named after Commander Sally Strange, widely known as one of the most creative and dedicated First Officers in the fleet's early years.

Tomas Falt - Denali Station
Presented by - Oddas Aria

As one who nominated Tom for the Strange Medallion, it was great to see him win this Award. Since coming aboard Denali Station - indeed, since joining the Juneau, he has been a steadfast presence, quick to pitch in, quick to lend a hand, and someone who is always willing to help find a way to make running the ship both pleasant and a smoother running operation. 

In many ways, Tom compliments me in all the best ways - comfortable reaching out to people, knowing when to temper feelings, and when those feelings are getting diminishing returns. His advice is something I rely on, in the same way that I know when he says ‘I got this’ I do not have to worry about it ever again. To say I am beyond pleased he received this award would be an understatement. Congratulations Tom, good job.
 

Edited July 3 by Oddas Aria
Strangely, I left out the Strange Medallion

[Drex0379]

Congratulations and thank you for your hard work!!!!

[+ Talia Ohnari]

Congratulations!!!!! 

[IsKah]

Congratulations, thank you for all the work everyone does for us players

[Madison Marsh]

Thank you for your hard work and dedication. Congratulations to all of the award winners! 

[Doz Finch]

Congratulations!

[Samira Neathler]

Congratulations everyone!

[Toryn Raga]

Congrats to you all! @Karrod Niac Not surprised in the slightest. I see it every day. 

[Lhandon_Nilsen]

Wooo our very own @Alora DeVeau getting an award. As said by Quinn, Amanda was one of the first people I met after the joining the Oumuamua and she gave me the warmest welcome, helped introduced me to everyone and make those first days an absolute joy.

[Serala]

Congratulations to all the winners! Very much deserved.

Edited July 4 by Serala

[Haukea-Willow]

Congratulations to everyone once again ❤️

[Josh Herrick]

 Congratulations! ❤️

[Tahna Meru]

Congratulations, everyone, and thank you for keeping the Fleet running! 

[LCDR Aine O. Sherlock]

Congratulations!

[+ Arturo Maxwell]

Congratulations on some well-deserved awards   ❤️

[Jo Marshall]

Well done folks! Well deserved awards there! @Alora DeVeau Smashed it!

[+ Vitor S. Silveira]

Congratulations to all. It is a well recognition to every one of you and a huge thank you for your work. If it wasn't for that we wouldn't have a place to write.