2025-2026 Kevin Taylor Memorial Service Award
And the winner is ...
Robert Lake, security administrator, PeopleSoft Architecture & Security Administration Team, University Support Services
Robert Lake gets ready to dig into a hot fudge sundae.
Lake’s nomination letters:
“Having worked alongside Rob for over 20 years, I can confidently say he exemplifies the qualities this award celebrates — positivity, empathy, and a steadfast commitment to service.
Rob consistently approaches challenges with a solution-oriented mindset and a calm, collaborative demeanor that uplifts those around him. Although I only had a few interactions with Kevin Taylor, I see many of his defining traits reflected in Rob. He has a remarkable ability to navigate tense situations with sincerity and levity, helping to ease conflict and foster productive dialogue. Even when he must deny a security request, Rob does so with empathy and a genuine effort to find alternative solutions that meet the needs of both our team and our customers.
Rob has played a critical role in supporting major PeopleSoft initiatives, ensuring secure access and enhancing the user experience across the university. His dependability, drive for continuous improvement, and deep understanding of institutional systems make him an invaluable asset.
Rob’s collaborative, team-first approach is something I’ve long admired — he’s always ready to step in, support others, and diffuse difficult moments with grace.”
~ Nominated by Doug Kenner
“As the university’s foremost expert on PeopleSoft security, Rob brings extensive knowledge and experience that has become indispensable to UIT operations. His deep understanding of complex security protocols ensures that critical university systems remain both secure and accessible to those who need them. Rob has an extraordinary ability to communicate complex security concepts in understandable terms. This is evident in his patient, educational approach to customer interactions.
He takes the time to clearly explain the pros and cons of each security option, empowering customers to make informed decisions rather than simply dictating solutions. This collaborative approach, his teamwork, and knowledge-sharing make him an exceptional employee. Rob’s willingness to engage with others and his commitment to empowering customers make him great in his job. Rob is a great teammate who willingly shares his knowledge and helps solve problems across the organization. His infectious positive attitude creates a welcoming environment that encourages collaboration and learning.
Lake, right, plays Brandon Gresham during a Deputy Chief Information Officer organization Rock, Paper, Scissors Tournament.
Rob’s proactive approach to identifying new security options demonstrates his commitment to ongoing improvement and innovation. Rather than simply maintaining existing systems, he continuously seeks ways to enhance security while improving the user experience for business and functional users across the university.
Rob's responsiveness to both internal and external customers ensures that every interaction results in a positive experience. His commitment to making sure business and functional users have the access they need to complete their jobs is evident for all to see.
Rob quietly ensures that security — though not “flashy” — works seamlessly for everyone. His humble and unassuming nature means he often goes unrecognized for work that is absolutely vital to the university’s operations. Rob exemplifies the philosophy that if security professionals are doing their job correctly, no one notices the complexity of what they manage daily.
Rob’s dedication to superior service, his collaborative approach to problem-solving, and his commitment to both UIT and the broader University of Utah community make him an exceptionally deserving candidate for this recognition. His work ensures that the university’s critical systems remain secure while maintaining the accessibility that enables others to do their jobs effectively and efficiently.”
~ Nominated by Dave Sexton
To keep spirits up during the pandemic, Lake would show up at weekly online team meetings with creative backgrounds like this one.
“Robert works with people across campus since he deals with security. He always wants to help people and does it with a great attitude. He works with several different projects and has to get people access to those projects. He has to figure out what security is needed for any new addition to the SIS.
There are several very strong personality users and he works with them with respect and they appreciate this. He is always calm and is always positive — always is in a good mood and does his job with a smile.”
~ Nominated by Garth DeVries