The title of Best Support Staff Member of 2025 was awarded to five outstanding individuals whose work and dedication reflect the university’s values and whose contribution goes beyond their job descriptions.

Brita Laurfeld – Champion of Support Service Quality
As Acting Head of the Wellbeing Centre in the HR Department and Service Development Manager, Brita Laurfeld has in recent years led the creation and implementation of a support services quality standard across the entire university. As a result of her work, TalTech’s support services have gained a unified, user-centred and well-structured framework, now clearly visible in the new intranet.

Brita’s strength lies in her consistency, systematic approach and ability to see the big picture – without losing sight of the people within it. Temporarily taking on the role of Head of the Wellbeing Centre has not reduced her dedication; rather, it has demonstrated her readiness to assume responsibility even as the workload increases. Colleagues value her calm yet demanding work style and her genuine desire to find solutions that truly work.

Kadri Jürissaar – The Person Who Guided the University into the New Intranet
As Web Project Manager in the Marketing and Communications Department, Kadri Jürissaar has been a key figure in migrating TalTech’s intranet to a new platform. This was not merely a technical transition – Kadri effectively led the process of restructuring, rethinking and creating a new logic for the university’s entire content landscape.

Under her leadership, nearly 4,500 pages were transferred to the new environment, a new menu structure was created, and a network of intranet administrators was established across the university. Kadri stands out for her exceptional helpfulness, patience and ability to explain complex matters to those for whom digital environments are not everyday tools. In addition to her main responsibilities, she gladly contributes to organising events and community activities – always wholeheartedly.

Laidi Lember – Guardian of Financial Clarity and Peace of Mind
Laidi Lember, Financial Analyst in the Finance Department, is for many the first and most reliable source of support in budget matters. Her knowledge, experience and systematic approach provide confidence even in the most complex situations and help university units make well-considered and responsible decisions.

Laidi does not limit herself to numbers – she notices inconsistencies, initiates their resolution and helps colleagues understand the broader logic of budgeting. Leading the preparation of the 2026 budget is just one example of her dedication and sense of responsibility. It is no coincidence that Laidi received the most praise in the support services satisfaction survey.

Keiu Org – Builder of School Partnerships and Inspirer of Youth
As Chief Specialist for School Cooperation and Admissions Marketing at the Exam and Olympiad School, Keiu Org is one of those whose work directly shapes TalTech’s future. Under her leadership, forms of school cooperation have diversified, the network of partner schools has expanded, and the university’s study opportunities have reached thousands of young people across Estonia.

Keiu’s initiatives – ranging from engineering e-electives to the Maze Run at Open Doors Day – have brought both visibility and real applicants to TalTech. Her work is a genuine example of how systematic and creative collaboration creates long-term value for both the university and society at large.

Keiu embodies the university’s values and is an excellent and cooperative partner for all university units. Through her activities, she also contributes to maintaining TalTech’s strong reputation among school leaders, teachers and students in Estonia’s general education schools and upper secondary schools.

Kaie Lehtme – The Quiet Pillar of Support at Tartu College
Kaie Lehtme, Head of Academic Affairs at Tartu College, is one of those whose work keeps the entire system running smoothly. Since the college’s establishment, she has been a central source of support for students, lecturers and colleagues alike, helping to find solutions even in challenging situations.

Kaie’s strength lies in her personal approach, attention to detail and genuine care. Student feedback confirms that she is the first person they turn to when facing concerns. Her contribution is reflected in on-time graduation rates, satisfaction with the learning environment and the college’s strong reputation. Kaie is a true example of how quiet and consistent work leads to great results.