But I think it would be especially nice if there were some way to specifically acknowledge monks who have made unique contributions, no matter what their level. I've seen quite a few particularly erudite posts, from a number of monks who are relatively new to the Monastery.

Don't we already have that with Daily/Weekly/Monthly Best Nodes?

Although personally I think "Best" is somewhat of a mis-nomer (popular would probably be a better description) - aren't these lists simply a public acknowledgement of those nodes that have been considered by the community at large as the recent "best"?

One of your nodes is currently sitting on top of the monthly best (quite deservedly so), and I was lucky enough to have one of mine up there a while back. I got quite a kick out of that at the time. And for me, at least, that was more than enough recognition :)

Cheers,
Darren :)