What is the GEM Program?
It is a recognition program designed for employees, students and volunteers to recognize each other for their professional behavior and for Going the Extra Mile in their daily activities.

Who is eligible to participate in the program?
All UTMB employees, including those who work in an off-site location, who work part-time, who work on a paid-by-letter basis and/or who work on contract, students and volunteers are eligible to get or give recognition through this program.

How does the program work?
When you observe an employee, student or volunteer modeling professionalism or Going the Extra Mile in his or her daily activities, you can award that person a GEM card. Award one card per occasion.

Can a new employee receive or send recognition cards?
Yes. This program is for any employee, student or volunteer, regardless of length of service.

How do I send an eGEM card?
Sending an eGEM card is easy! Click here to fill out the online form. The recipient will receive an email with a copy of the card and your message. He or she can print this card and submit it for entry into the annual drawing.

Is there such a thing as getting too many GEM cards?
We can only hope that Going the Extra Mile becomes so commonplace and engrained in our culture, that this becomes a legitimate issue. You can't get or give too many cards. However, we remind participants that for these cards to be meaningful and this program successful, cards must be used to recognize service above and beyond regular responsibilities. They are not meant to be traded among friends. Use good judgment when giving GEM cards so it will mean something when you get one.

What is the annual drawing?
Employees, students or volunteers who accumulate three GEM cards may submit them to their supervisor or the appropriate office for entry into an annual drawing for the chance to win an award. All entries must be submitted by the supervisor or the appropriate office into the online entry system.

• Employees – Submit to immediate supervisor
• Students – Submit to Office of Student Life
• Volunteers – Submit to Volunteer Services

Is there a limit to the number of times an employee may be entered into the annual drawing?
No. There is no limit to the number of entries. Every time an employee turns in three cards to his or her supervisor or appropriate office, the employee's name will be entered into the annual drawing.

Why is supervisor validation required?
Supervisor validation is only required for entry into the annual drawing. It also serves as a way to share your recognition.

Can a supervisor keep an employee from being entered into the annual drawing?
No. The GEM Program emphasizes peer recognition, not just recognition by supervisors/management.

Who should I contact with questions about the program?
All questions may be directed to the HR Talent and Organizational Development team at (409) 747-6700 or submitted via the online comments form.