Sursum Corda Awards: Caffrey, Doyle, Eckenrode, Kennedy Honored

Four staff members, whose collective experience as members of The University of Scranton community spans nearly a century, were celebrated as the newest winners of the Sursum Corda (Lift Up Your Hearts) Awards.

The awards, presented Feb. 19 at the McIlhenny Ballroom inside the DeNaples Center, recognized the dedication, service and outstanding contributions the four individuals have made in performing their duties, nurturing a sense of a belonging and playing an important role in supporting members of the community as they strive to embody the University’s mission and values in their daily lives.

This year’s recipients of the Sursum Corda Awards are:

David Caffrey, public safety officer for the University Police Department

Caffrey began working at Scranton in 1989, policing the Hill section out of his own car.

In the 35-plus years since, Caffrey has been a steady and dependable presence who’s led by example through his consistency, reliability and commitment to excellence. Caffrey’s longevity stands as a testament to his devotion to law enforcement and the University.

Caffrey takes great care to ensure that University facilities, equipment and grounds are always secure, creating a safe and supportive environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors. He has a deep sense of duty and pride in public service, going far beyond what is expected.

A U.S. Navy veteran, Caffrey enjoys spending time with family, including his sister, her children and grandchildren.

Hugh Doyle ’17, G’20, director of undergraduate admissions within enrollment management

Just two weeks after graduating, Doyle joined the admissions staff and has since served in several leadership roles at the University.

Doyle brings exceptional dedication, creativity and intentionality to his duties and considers the University’s mission and the needs of its students in all he does. Bringing a philosophy of “mission first, people always,” Doyle manages his team with compassion and care and consistently models integrity, trust and mutual respect.

Doyle volunteers with a local nonprofit organization that supports individuals with mobility limitations. Similar to his interactions with students and colleagues, he approaches his voluntary work with humility and a genuine love for others.

A fan of the great outdoors, Doyle enjoys spending time with his wife, Elizabeth ’17, and their son, Finnen.

Melissa Eckenrode, administrative assistant to the Department of English and Theater

Known for her compassion and unwavering support of students, offering encouragement and guidance to all who come through the department, Eckenrode has served the University for more than a decade.

Since 2021, she has been an active member of Staff Senate and now co-chairs the Social Events and Community Building Committee, strengthening connections across campus while also volunteering with additional committees.

Deeply committed to service, Eckenrode chaperones annual student service trips. This past year, she generously chaperoned two international service trips.

Eckenrode and her husband, Paul, volunteer for the Feed a Friend program, providing essential resources to individuals and families in need. She and Paul are the proud parents of four children — Monica, Abigail, Matthew and Isabel.

Diane Kennedy, IT client services analyst in the division of information technology

For nearly three decades, Kennedy has been an influential, reliable and dedicated University community member who has played key roles in several major technological transitions.

Notably, Kennedy assisted in the University’s move to Microsoft email and calendaring and the redesign of an outdated asset tracker system.

Kennedy’s commitment extends far beyond her professional responsibilities. She has long visited nursing homes, hospitals, youth groups and libraries with her therapy dogs, Opel and Uwe, offering comfort and connection.

Kennedy’s service took on new meaning in 2024 after her husband, Rob, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Together, they have become advocates for dementia awareness and caregiver support, helping raise funds and engaging in various outreach activities and initiatives.