UNH Today

Kathy Cataneo, director of research development, has received the Holly J. Falk-Krzesinski Service Award  from the National Organization of Research Development Professionals (NORDP). The award is given annually to a NORDP member in recognition of outstanding service to the organization and to the research development profession. NORDP named this service award in honor of its founding president.

“Kathy has a long and distinguished history in research development and administration at UNH and is an invaluable member of our team,” says Marian McCord, senior vice provost for research, economic engagement and outreach. “We are thrilled to see Kathy receive recognition for her outstanding service to NORDP and the research development profession. It was wonderful to read the tributes to Kathy’s leadership and mentorship in the organization; she embodies the same qualities in her role as director of research development.”

Cataneo helped found (and subsequently chaired) the New England chapter of NORDP, and has since been active on the national level, first as a member of the communications working group, later through chairing the member services committee, where her leadership helped grow the organization to 1,000 members. She serves as an elected member of the NORDP board of directors (2016-2020).

Cataneo has supported UNH research and scholarship for nearly 40 years and was the founding director of UNH’s research development office in 2010. She has assisted hundreds of UNH faculty members throughout her career.

“Kathy is a tireless advocate for faculty,” says professor of psychology Jill McGaughy, who participated in the Up-2-NIH program Cataneo launched to promote competitive faculty applications to the National Institutes of Health. “She helped me understand how to navigate NIH, and to persist in the process of applying for funding even when you encounter setbacks. She is a great asset to UNH so I'm very happy to hear she has received an award.”