The 2024 BME Unsung Hero Award was given to Elizabeth Chiu (right) and Andrea Hung (left) at the Translational Biology and Engineering Program (TBEP) at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering.
The 2024 BME Unsung Hero Award was given to Elizabeth Chiu (right) and Andrea Hung (left) at the Translational Biology and Engineering Program (TBEP) at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering.

Elizabeth Chiu and Andrea Hung receives BME Unsung Hero Award

Starting in 2024, the BME Unsung Hero Award celebrates the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support the Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME). This award recognizes the invaluable contributions of administrative staff, research technicians, assistants, and other key team members who ensure the success of our labs, programs, and community.

The 2024 BME Unsung Hero Award was given to Elizabeth Chiu and Andrea Hung at the Translational Biology and Engineering Program (TBEP) at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering.

Together, they create a welcoming and supportive environment that fosters connection, collaboration, and joy within the graduate student community. Their combined efforts as Operations and Administrative Coordinator (Liz) and Operations and Research Officer (Andrea) go far beyond their formal job descriptions, making them the dynamic duo that TBEP simply couldn’t function without.

Post-COVID, rebuilding community and morale was a challenge for many institutions, but Liz and Andrea have not only met this challenge—they’ve exceeded it. From organizing seamless operations and handling crises with calm efficiency to planning memorable social events like holiday gatherings and the iconic Echo Pitch competition, they ensure that both the day-to-day and special moments at TBEP are nothing short of exceptional. Whether it’s facilitating critical equipment repairs, brightening the lounge with thought-provoking “questions of the day,” or staying after hours to support student initiatives, they exemplify dedication, creativity, and genuine care. Their tireless contributions have transformed the 14th floor of MaRS into a vibrant, welcoming space where graduate students feel supported and motivated.

What truly sets Liz and Andrea apart is their ability to make everyone feel valued. Their warmth, humour, and kindness create an atmosphere where students, faculty, and staff can thrive both academically and personally. Together, they embody the essence of the Unsung Hero Award: unwavering dedication, quiet excellence, and immeasurable impact. Liz and Andrea aren’t just vital to TBEP—they are its heartbeat, and this recognition is a testament to their extraordinary contributions.

“Congratulations to Elizabeth Chiu and Andrea Hung on receiving the BME Unsung Hero Award—your dedication, kindness, and tireless efforts have profoundly enriched our community, and we are truly grateful for everything you do." Says Prof. Milos R. Popovic, Director of BME.