Cameron McLean, the director of student activities, has been named the 2019 Pillar of Rensselaer award recipient at the annual Service Recognition and Retirement Dinner, held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Troy, Aug. 9.

The Pillar Award, the highest award bestowed by Rensselaer on a member of the staff, is presented annually to an individual who has demonstrated an understanding of Rensselaer’s mission and history, has served as a role model for other employees, shows concern for students and their welfare, and adds to the human dimension of Rensselaer.

Candidates are nominated by fellow employees, whose letters of support describe how the candidate’s attributes meet the criteria for the award.

McLean was cited for her deep understanding of Rensselaer’s history. As one supporter observed, “Over the past 25 years, her good work has helped to write the story of the Institute.” 

“This person’s work requires a deep understanding of the mission and values of Rensselaer, the priorities of the Institute specific to the student experience, and the correct approach to balancing student ambitions with policy, process and professional judgment,” wrote one nominator. “This person has demonstrated, year after year, her ability to strike that balance.”

“I have never met, nor worked with anyone who so wholly commits to each and every project, task, student, colleague, person, cause, more so than Cameron McLean,” wrote another nominator. 

The Pillar Award recipient receives a silver pin designed by Tiffany & Co., a crystal pillar award, and a check for $2,500. Also, the recipient’s name is inscribed on the base of the permanent Tiffany Crystal Award displayed in the Office of the President.

The Pillar of Rensselaer Award was established in 1993 through the support of Carl Westerdahl, the former dean of students and director of alumni relations. McLean is the 28th recipient of the award.