Ray Morales, senior director of Columbia Business School’s Information Technology Group, has been awarded the 2012 Robert W. Lear Service Award.The Lear award is given yearly to a member of the faculty, administration, or staff who most clearly demonstrates commitment to and interest in working students. The award was established by the Graduate Business Association (GBA) to honor executive in residence Robert W. Lear, former chairman and CEO of F&M Schaefer Corporation.“I’m grateful to work with students on a daily basis and work together to resolve technology issues that may arise, as well as offer suggestions and solutions to help ease the academic experience,” Morales said. “Our students are very supportive of the ITG organization, and I value their patience and feedback to help improve the services we provide.”Morales was selected from a pool of more than 80 nominations because of his demonstrated dedication to supporting the School, community, and students.“Ray Morales and his team at ITG ensure the School’s technological backbone supports its customers 24 hours a day,” said Ryan Bell ’12, GBA president. “I've never seen him turn down a request to fix a problem, with every issue met by ’we can do that,’ or ’let us figure it out.’ Ray and his team are invaluable to the School.”Tal Hayat ’12, GBA vice president of infrastructure and technology, added his praise for Morales’s work with students. “Ray faces the challenging task of being the go-to guy for students with all their technological problems and requests. His door is always open, and he gets things moving before you even finish voicing a request,” Hayat said. “He proactively offers his assistance and works tirelessly in the background to help make life easier for the student body and the GBA.”Students, staff, and faculty members are invited to honor Morales at a ceremony on May 1 in Uris Hall’s Calder Lounge from 12:30 to 2 p.m.