Pat on the Back Awards February 2005

Congratulations to —

Vicky Taylor, secretary, Biology Department. Since coming to Ferris almost two years ago, Vicky has proven to be always cheerful and always reliable. Vicky steps up and helps. She is a valuable asset to Ferris State University, and well deserving of recognition.

Jodi Gardei, ASC, is a real asset to have as our computer support wizard. She is always ready to assist you with computer problems or have suggestions of where to obtain equipment needed. She is a people person and a real "gem" to have around.

Kari Gillikin, student helper, Granger Center. Kari has worked with me for three years through the transition of CTC being leveled to make way for Granger Center. Every time we have an important event at Granger Center, Kari will stay at work longer to help out and get the building ready. We have prepared for Senator Stabenow's tour, the President's Donor Dinner, the Dedication ceremony and the Construction Hall of Fame ceremony. Kari has done a good job and we are glad to have her help at Granger Center.

Scott Claerhout, Technology Services coordinator. During the months of December 2004 and January 2005, he provided technical assistance in a collaboration effort between the College of Business and Admissions Office. Scott took an explorative 'idea' and transformed it into a working model. His efforts resulted in providing additional computer support to the university's highly successful Dawg Day Saturday visitation program; thereby, enabling prospective students to receive much sought-after financial aid assistance and information. Scott's unselfish assistance toward the university's recruitment effort is in keeping with the spirit of the FSU Pat-on-the-Back Award.

Teresa Havens, Motor Pool Clerk. Not only does Teresa manage and schedule the operation of over 200 vehicles and pieces of equipment daily, she also dispatches the University buses and drivers. Recently she spent a Saturday evening at rescheduling drivers and buses when the FSU Hockey Team was stranded in Madison Wisconsin during an ice storm. She even came into the office Sunday morning to finalize the details for a bus driver switch for the bus returning from Wisconsin and one leaving for West Virginia. Teresa always has her cell phone handy and goes out of her way to provide support and assistance to Motor Pool customers.

The following people deserve a "Pat-on-the-Back" award for going above and beyond in helping Ferris State University reach their United Way goal this year:

Kim Kleeves, Clerk Typist in the Physical Plant, organized the Thursday lunches that were held in the General Services area which raised over $550, besides the FSU United Way Silent Auction which raised over $1000.

Will Gasper, Grounds Supervisor, assisted with the organization of the General Services lunches and made sure the United Way campus thermometer was up-to-date.

Karen Lobdell, Secretary in Developmental Programs and Curriculum Department, provided the Wednesday soups in University College which raised over $400.

Sandy Balkema, Professor in the English, Literature, and World Languages Department, organized the "Chocolate Fest" which raised over $100

Roxanne Cullen, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, who yearly provides enthusiasm for United Way by raising $1300 in the Cake Auction.

Rhonda Turner, Benefits Specialist, organized the Prakken Bingo event which raised $235.

Chris Jacobs, Administrative Aid in FLITE, is always willing to assist with the United Way Campaign and organized the Chili Cook-Off and Silent Auction in FLITE which brought in over $170.

Raymond Gant, Director of Minority Student Affairs and Special Assistant to the President, organized the Video Game Competition which brought in $315.