Monday, March 30, 2026
The College of Science is proud to celebrate Becky Petrusky of Biological Sciences for receiving the 2026 UNT Spirit Award.

The College of Science is proud to celebrate Becky Petrusky of Biological Sciences for receiving the 2026 UNT Spirit Award. This honor recognizes UNT staff members who have consistently demonstrated a sense of pride in being a part of the community by supporting staff, faculty, and students, and always promotes the University in a positive light. 

Becky Spirit“To me, having UNT spirit means celebrating the students, campus life, and the city in which we live,” said Becky, who is an Administrative Specialist in UNT’s Advanced Environmental Research Institute (AERI).  “When people ask what I do that keeps me so busy, I respond by saying I not only work to save animals, but I am paid to help save the world. Not a bad gig for the past eighteen years!” 

Becky is responsible for accounting and purchasing supplies for the research teams in AERI, and she is also responsible for the upkeep and billings for the Institute of Applied Science's (IAS) fleet of vehicles. Outside of the office, she and her husband get involved bringing joy to the community, especially around holidays. 

“During Christmastime, we drive around Denton as Mr. and Mrs. Claus, we bring the Easter Bunny to IHOP, and orchestrate the monthly rescue meet and greets at our North Denton PetSmart,” said Becky. “UNT Spirit is not just here on campus but how we reflect our UNT missions within our hometown.” 

UNT's Institutional Effectiveness Awards and UNT Staff Appreciation Awards recognize faculty and staff who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to advance UNT’s mission and enhance student outcomes. We are proud of all our College of Science awardees: