Donovan DeJong ‘93 has been named the 2026 Augie Pride Award winner. He was recognized on Wednesday, April 29, at the university’s annual Service Awards & Retirement Recognition Ceremony in the Ordal Dining Hall of Morrison Commons.
Since 1999, the Augie Pride Award has been given to employees who go the extra mile to provide exceptional service to the university.
“It is an honor to be included in a list of people who have contributed many years, skills and service to the university,” said DeJong, deputy director of IT at Augustana. “The fact that the two people who held my position before me — Glenn Wika ‘62 and Deb Frederick ‘76 — have also been recognized with this award makes it even more special.”
After graduating from Augustana in 1993 with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in biology, DeJong served as a research associate in the biology department under the late Dr. Larry Tieszen ‘61, professor emeritus of biology. In 1997, he joined the IT department to help manage the university’s website, while providing computer support and training to employees. Today, DeJong oversees management information systems and helps maintain student data, including grades, course registrations, financial aid and more alongside the administrative offices.
“I strongly believe in the need for higher education and want to contribute in ways that allow Augustana to lead in providing education to those willing to seek it,” said DeJong. “I am very much dedicated to ensuring that the data decisions are based upon is correct and maintained.”
In addition to DeJong’s love for higher education, his coworkers have kept him at the university for the majority of his career.
“I like to see what changes — whether with students, how education is provided or the changing landscape of higher education,” he said. “After 33 years here, I have had the privilege to work with and get to know some amazing people, some who have since retired and many who are still here.”
Since its creation, the Augie Pride Award winner has been nominated by fellow Augustana employees. Those who nominated DeJong said that he does his work with excellence, humility and a deep sense of pride in the university.
“DeJong’s impact is felt across campus, often in ways that go unseen,” said one nominator. “It’s deeply essential to the work everyone else does each day.”
“DeJong is the kind of colleague who shows up — no hesitation, no fanfare — just consistent, thoughtful support,” added another nominator.
After the ceremony, DeJong celebrated his accomplishments by going out for dinner with his family.
“I appreciate that others took the time and effort to nominate me for consideration. I have already informed them there will be positive payback at some later date,” he said, joking.
For more information about past Augie Pride Award winners, visit augie.edu/ServiceAwards.