Gaona honored for exceptional culture contributions

On April 29, 2026, Grainger Dean Devesh Ranjan hosted a celebration at which he recognized engineering faculty and staff for outstanding daily work that shapes the heart of our college.

Daniel Gaona, an accountant III in electrical and computer engineering, received the University and Academic Staff Distinguished Achievement Award.

While Gaona’s accounting expertise keeps one of the college’s largest departments running smoothly, his impact extends across our college and throughout the UW-Madison campus. Notes a colleague: “He leads with humility, positivity and a genuine commitment to making the College of Engineering a better place for everyone.”

At the college level, Gaona is a culture-builder. He strengthens staff engagement, recognition and connection through his service on the Committee Advocating for Staff Interests. For example, he spearheaded “CASI Kudos,” an initiative that elevates awareness of staff contributions and promotes gratitude and community. He also served on the committee charged with hiring a new college dean.

During the university’s transition to Workday, Gaona was a “change-champion” and member of the campus Workday finance “tiger team,” providing early and detailed feedback that improved processes that affect every college department. He also ensured his college colleagues understood those processes.