Pat-on-the-Back Awardees
Congratulations to -
November 2009:
I would like to nominate Major Kevin Babcock and the following ROTC cadets for their assistance with the wreath-laying event on September 1st in honor of Helen and Woodbridge Ferris: Aaron T. Jarvi, Erika L. Culpepper, Christopher J. Fought, Robert J. Saleski, Frank H. Schoenwitz, and Currie A. Tighe. Major Babcock happily assisted with this event and the cadets took their own time to guard the wreath on shifts. The ROTC also assisted with a wreath-laying back in 2003 for Woodbridge's 150th birthday, so we were pleased to partner up again for this event. I encourage everyone to support the ROTC on campus; I know that would mean a lot to them.
I would like to nominate the Business Office and Student Services staff, Deb Griffith, Tasha Seigert, Nicole Merritt, Barb Rice, MaryAnne Guenther, Kelly Normand, Jean Vallier, Pepper Bonnett, student employees Tara Ison, Kara Gottschall, Ashley Donahue, and Josh Cochran, for a Pat on the Back. As more and more phone calls and payments were arriving in preparation for the beginning of the school year, the staff did an absolutely awesome job helping our students with possible solutions for their outstanding bills, whether the student or parent was on the phone or in the Timme Center, also processing payments and producing ID cards. It's an incredibly hectic time for our office and the staff showed infinite patience and thoroughness. What a team! They worked hard every day for the past two weeks and I think they all deserve a big Pat on the Back!
Cindy Jackson has been working quietly behind the scenes to support FSU's 125th anniversary. She has spent countless hours listening to old audio recordings of former Ferris employees talking about their early experiences at the Institute/College/University and transcribing them into a digital text format. These recordings include barely audible comments from the audience, presenters with accents, and unfamiliar names of people and locations. In order to ensure the accuracy of the transcriptions, Cindy has consulted the Internet and old Big Rapids records and maps and has also made telephone calls to long-time Mecosta County residents. She has cheerfully undertaken this project (even with frequent incoming telephone call interruptions) and continues to efficiently manage her office duties in the FLITE Dean's Office. The transcripts will be placed in the University Archives.
Joe Strohkirch’s technical expertise has aided Media Production in providing instructional support to Ferris faculty. He assisted with initial trials of placing streaming Web on a server for distribution to Ferris classes. He also keeps the computers in Media Production’s graphics workroom loaded with the latest software and running smoothly, enabling us to design posters, graphs, and images for the faculty and for departmental offices. Computer technicians Michael Fletcher and Leeann O’Neal have replaced a computer in our Cable Television head-end system, ensuring an uninterrupted display of the Campus and Community Calendars. We thank the IT technicians for their professional and courteous support.
With FSUS, we frequently need to reserve rooms in FLITE for meetings etc., I wanted pass along to you, that Dorothy Hart is always helpful and thorough in her job in coordinating the rooms for us. I really appreciate that she double checks what I submit for my room reservations and she is very accurate. We appreciate her very much and everyone at FLITE.
Wendy Samuels is a prime candidate for a Pat-on-the-Back. Not only is she willing to volunteer for important professional roles such as the Political Engagement Project, academic service learning, and assessment, she has successfully assisted the accreditation efforts of the University. She regularly assists her college recruitment efforts and has even served at a table for another university college at Dawg Days events.
I would like to nominate Ryan Provo for a Pat-on-the-Back Award. Ryan is a student employee in the Purchasing Department. The wonderful success of the 10th Annual Vendor Show held September 17th is a result of the extrodinary effort from Ryan to setup and organize the show. During the past few months, he worked hard to contact vendors, make reservations, and arrange for even the smallest detail to be covered. We had a record number of 42 exhibitors and an estimated 300 in attendance. Ryan's hard work, dedication and, devotion to this project were very evident. It is with great pleasure and pride that the Purchasing Department expresses its appreciation to Ryan.
I would like to nominate Ron Patterson, Larry Stephan, along with Jim Brown and Dave Remus of the carpentry department for many pats on their backs. This great group of guys, on very short notice help prepare our area for an upcomming event during this year's Homecoming activities. Because of their efforts, photographs and portraits are now gracing our area that have not been seen in many years. It's this dedication and cooperation that embodies Mr. Ferris's belief to make the world better.
I would like to nominate Glenn Zobel and his great moving crew for the Pat on the Back award. On very short notice, the men retrieved from the Alumni courts a very large heavy FI Sign and moved it upstairs to our location for an event during the Homecomming activities. This was not an easy task. The men had some obstacles to maneuver around and they did this with good grace and good humor. This proves again, with a positive attitude, you can move anything. A hearty thanks to the guys!!!
I would like to nominate Lauri Knoop and Jim McIntyre for a Pat-on-the-Back award. Lauri and Jim always get the tasks at hand done and they both volunteer to help their co-workers out without being asked to. Lauri and Jim, you are a TRUE ROCKSTARS. Thank you for all that you do. :)
I would like to nominate Mike Johnson of TAC for his prompt and patient assisitance with computer issues. Mike goes above and beyond his job by using great patience with "non tech minded" faculty as myself. Mike also follows up personally numerous time to make sure there are no further issues. I feel Mike's customer service goes above and beyond what is required of him and makes working in the College of Allied Health much easier knowing we have such great support. Mike Johnson works for TAC in VFS 326C
I think Jim Lindsey of Enrollment Service deserves an "atta boy". He is always there to help people. He has creative ideas and does all this with a unique personality.
Nicholas Campau deserves a great deal of pats on the back for his continued attention to detail, collaborations with departments across campus to get folks involved in sexual assault prevention (White Ribbon Campaign), and his leadership within the Office of the Dean of Student Life in encouraging a safe campus community.
Angela Roman does a dynamic job communicating with employers about the quality of our students, developing relationships with faculty across campus to meet the employment and internship needs of their students, and maintaining a sense of excellence in all that strives to accomplish for the Office of Career Services.
Kristin Norton has a difficult job as Director of Student Conduct, however, she continues to ensure that our students are afforded due process. She deserves a standing ovation for her University Committee on Discipline Training Program that involved over 50 faculty, staff, and students interested in helping our students have a clear understanding of the Code of Student Community Standards.
I would like to nonomiate the individuals that entered their office in the "Pride Day Decorating Contest" for a pat on the back for taking the time and energy to show their FSU Pride.The following individuals would be: Annette Erler - Physical Plant, Melanie Mulder - Financial Aid Office, Becky Prunty - Communications Center, Kelly Normand - Student Services, Richelle Williams - CAHS Dean's office, and Deb Ducat - School of Education. I would also like to nonimate the students who took time out of their busy schedules to judge our contest: Megan Woolsey, President's Office, and Kaley Budnick, Office of Vice President for Student Affairs.
September 2009:
I would like to nominate Melanie Kimpton for a "Pat on the Back" award.
Melanie has met the challenge of stepping up to the plate in the dean's office at the College of Business as the temporary receptionist and all around "Girl Friday". Her "can do" attitude, efficiency, and outgoing personality has been a huge asset while the search for a full time replacement was underway. The department office appreciates your effort Melanie!
I would like to nominate Dawn Cassel, Honors Program Support Staff, for a Pat on the Back Award and these are the reasons: dependability; professionalism; pleasant; attention to detail; calm . . . and is not afraid of work and not afraid to try new things. Great Job Dawn and THANKS!
I'd like to nominate September Howat for a Pat-on-the-Back award. I'm forwarding an email that the Grand Rapids office received regarding September's service to our students. September is an Admissions Officer and always puts students first - prospective and current. She constantly considers their needs and does what she can to be sure they have the best Ferris experience possible.
I would like to nominate Nate Canute, Matt Gates, Corey Potter, Jannes Sanders and Shilah Vaughn - all student employees of the FLITE Public Services Department for taking on the tremendous task of cleaning up the public notice board which is between FLITE and Vandercook. In the 8 years we have been in FLITE the wall has never been cleared of staples, pins, nails, tacks left on the board after the notices were removed and over the years it has become an unsightly mess. It was one of those jobs where no one realized just how bad it looked until it was cleaned. Thanks team for helping our campus put it's best foot forward.
I would like to nominate Tara Ison. She has taken the extra innitiative to compile a ton of information into a reference manual. The Business Office and Student Service Center have to know alot of different information for students and she is making it easier for everyone. Thanks for all you do!!
Lynn Lewis has been immensely helpful in designing new management tools for the instruction librarians at FLITE. More importantly he has been helpful and patient with every step of the troubleshooting process while we prepare to implement these new tools. I've called him many times and he always takes a minute to help me fix problems.
I would like to nominate Becky Prunty and the Communications Center. Besides the millions of questions that they answer daily, they have made the second floor of the Timme Center a greener place! They have voluntarily created a recyle bin for our floor and will take it to the local recycling center for us. Becky and her crew do so many thankless jobs. From folding shirts, to giving tours and lots of mailings, and that's when they are not on the phone. Thanks guys, we are proud of you!
We work with great people here at Ferris. One in particular took time out of a very busy day to extend a kindness to a collegue who was have a rough day to say the least. That kindness made all the difference and I would like to nominate Rosemarie Van Ham for a pat on the back for taking the time to just be thoughtful.
I would like to nominate members and support individuals of the 125th Geocaching Team for a Pat-on-the-Back. For the 125th Geocaching Event, it has been a privilege to serve with all of the steering committee members witnessing first hand all of their hard work. Members have been dedicated to meetings throughout the summer and the testing and placement of caches' so that others who participate after Founder's Day and through the next academic year will be able to experience some history of Ferris State University using satellite technology. Thanks to committee members Court Borgman, Jim Cook, Jody Gardei, Jennifer Johnson, Mary Kay MacIver, Randall Schroeder, Rick Saliers, Randy Shanks, Jennifer Thede, Lee Weaver, and Stacey Weaver. Also, a big thanks to those that provided additional support for this committee to Christy Breggs, Mark Eichenberg, Bruce Hammond, Kent Kachaterian, Pat Klarecki, Lindsey Miller, Larry Schult, Walt Smith, and Al Williams. Last, but not least, thank you to those who have placed caches' at the third stage to enhance this experience. In addition to the five third stage cache's placed by committee members, four additional cache's have been placed by Amy Buse, Jon Coles, Dan deRegnier, Liza Ing, and Warren Hills. Well done all!
August 2009:
I would like to nominate Shannon Yost for a pat on the back award. I just wanted to thank you for helping assist me throughout the Masters program. The help and support you have given me is truly outstanding. You have always been willing to talk with me, whether on the phone or in your office, and have re-arranged my hectic schedule at least a half a dozen times. Besides experiencing it first hand, I have heard similar comments from many people. I am not sure where the program would be without you. Once again thank you for your assistance.
I would like to nominate Richard King (FLITE third floor custodian) for a pat on the back award. Misplacing a wallet, especially when it has money, credit cards and IDs in it, would cause me more than a little stress--unless I knew it was in the hands of FLITE third floor custodian Richard King. I would like to nominate Rich for the Pride Committee's Pat-on-the-back award for immediately identifying, locating, and then contacting the Ferris student who recently lost his wallet in the library--before the student even knew his wallet was missing. Thank you Richard for helping us take such good care of our library patrons.
Although somewhat delayed, I have not forgotten the unexpected and much appreciated effort JEFF GABALIS made to ensure that a series of videotapes were converted to DVD's in the late afternoon and evening of December 23, 2008. What is even more remarkable is that he had spent his lunch hour providing a Holiday Concert for a group of special needs individuals. He was patient, helpful and totally focused on the job at hand - not that almost everyone else had left campus for the Holiday Season Break. We were there until 6:30!! I noticed that Jeff has received other Pat-on-the-Back awards and I can understand why. In light of his extraordinary service to the University and previous Pat-on-the-Back awards, it seems an even more significant recognition is deserved. I would be very happy to nominate him for what ever the next level of award is.
All of the staff of the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid deserve a POTB (Terri Bloomquist, Sara Dew, Sheri Edstrom, Carla Erlewine, Kim Galloway, Chris Higley, Laurie Kilbourne, Debbie Lunsted, Sue Mumby, Melanie Mulder, John Randle, Janet Romanowski, Linda Stevens, Phil Tetsworth, Nancy Walcutt, Nancy Wencl, Brenda White, Kristi Williams, Rob Wirt, and Heather Youngs). They serve students at the most difficult time in recent history. Phil Tetsworth and Rob Wirt have repackaged 186 students whose families have lost their jobs. The stories they hear are incredibly sad: sobbing fathers, families that must leave their children with relatives to seek work, and a family that had to have their daughter's braces removed because they could not pay the orthodontist.
I would like to nominate Heather Youngs for a Pat-On-The-Back award for her innovative idea of having financial aid counselors over in IRC during orientation. She stuck to her plan, organized schedules and devoted extra time to make sure that the students' needs were met. Way to go Heather!
Valentina Sosa deserves a pat on the back. The Mecosta County Emergency Room called our office regarding a patient that had just been ambulanced in but spoke only spanish and they needed someone to come and be a translator for them. Valentina, a student worker for the International Center, gladly went to the hospital and spent several hours while the patient recieved the needed care.
On Friday, July 24th, Dining Services served over 1200 people for Dinner, 900 of those folks were bikers for the Wish a Mile program, some were campers and the rest were students attending classes for the summer. I would like to take a minute to say thank you to our student workers who showed up and were willing to go above and beyond the call of duty to help us with that amazing task: David Hollyfield, Charlie Wilson, Brittany Clark, Layne Smedley, Jessica Barnes, Jessica Sehy, Frances Kiio, Mindy Bouman, Kristen Johnson, Maticha Chikohora, Marziah Hasimi, Sam Lambright, Cassie Harriman, Jacob Baker, Talesha Belcher, Keeveah Showers, Michelle Salvati, Theresa Salvati, Que O’Neal, Eric Marshall, Kara Myers, Corey Pierson, Chris Foos and the Catering students (Amiee Guild, April Carter, Candice Lewis, Chelsea Reynolds, Jeff Perkowski, Mark Terwillger, Michael Reynolds, Neil Jordan, Pam Vanalstine, Lena Yarrington and Margo Berke). Thank you all so very much, we really appreciate all of the help and blessings you have given us this summer.
Last week, a student in FLITE had a choking incident. Pam Lawrence, our evening worker that night was able to calm the person down and get them to breathe easier until the incident improved. Her quick and calm actions helped the student regain her breathing and eased a potentially stressful situation.
I would like to nominate Deborah Butterfield for the "Pat on the Back Award." She is located in the Southeast Michigan Office in Flint Michigan in a clerical position. Deb is an extremely talented person tackling a wide range of tasks and duties within the office. Often when tasks are given to her to complete, she reviews the steps and many times offers productive suggestions for improvement. She is a self-starter and does not need to be reminded or encouraged to complete tasks. She regularly completes jobs in half the time expected; her short turnaround time on projects is astounding. She has also demonstrated extreme professionalism and sensitivity when dealing with students that come into our office. She is a wonderful asset to the Ferris Team in Flint.
July 2009:
I would like to give Sue Mumby in Financial Aid a Pat on the Back. She is always there to help me with Parents and students during orientation time and I really appreciate it and I know the parents do to. Of course it is always with some humor!!! Thanks Sue.
I would like to nominate Gary Lutz, Charles Rathbun, and Jason Brown for the pat on the back award. All three employees have gone above and beyond to assist me in solving numerous criminal cases. They are often not recognized for the work they do for their customers.
I would like to nominate Tom Weaver for a Pat on the Back. I have been in for unions and Tom Weaver is the one of the best Union Presidents I have ever met with. Tom is very knowledgeable, understanding, hard working for you, and usually gets his voice to be heard. Thank you Tom
I would like to nominate Mark Rolston for a pat on the back award. He makes sure that our building looks great. When we have something special that needs to be done he always does it with a smile and is always glad to help. Mark you do a great job. Thank you!!!!!!!!!
I would like to nominate Karen Rohdy for a pat on the back award. She has really made our building look fantastic. Karen thank for all of your hard work. You Rock!!!!
I would like to nominate the grounds crew (Gerold Battle, John Bishop, Rich Coby, Gordan Erler, Steve Huss, Brad King, Lionel MacKenzie, Jim Spedowske, Gordan Graham, Jim White, Chuck Zimmerman, Gary Unger, Scott Wilcox, and Daryl Young Jr.) for a big pat on the back. Just wanted to tell you thank you for making our campus very nice to look at and very welcoming to our in coming families. Thank you very much for making our campus look great.
June 2009:
I'm nominating Craig Roach for a pat-on-the-back because he knows what it means to communicate effectively with his customers. I've been working with him on a big project over the past few months and I always know where the project stands, as he sends email updates to me as the work progresses. I appreciate his thoughtfulness in keeping me informed on the progress of my work order request.
Teresa Havens deserves a huge pat on the back for outstanding service during the Rock Shuttle. Not only did she do her regular duties but also dispatched 7 drivers 12 hours per day 5 days per week, with daily schedule changes. She is a true professional and a valuable Physical Plant employee.
A Bulldog Pat on the Back Award is in order for the FSU Bus Drivers for an outstanding job in operating the Rock Shuttle as well as all other academic, athletic, and administrative trips this spring. 5802 miles were driven on the shuttle with a total of 28,449 incident free passenger boardings. A round of applause to Joe Bechaz, Jim Boyd, Dana Carey, David Erskin, Marilyn Erskin, James E. Lindsey, and Wendy Starks. Your skill and professionalism are greatly appreciated.
Thank you to Dave Steffens in Information Technology Services for putting in extra hours and rearranging his schedule to get the Banner patches for the Race/Ethnicity in so this survey could go out to employees and students before the end of the term. Timeliness is crucial!
Both Terri Aldrich and Rob Huston of Information Services are deserving of a pat-on-the-back for their work in migrating the College of Professional and Technological Studies' website to the main Ferris servers. They worked very hard and diligently to complete a project that on its face seems an easy task, but involves much testing and careful work to keep all of our systems and information safe, working, and secure. Thanks to Terri and Rob!
May 2009:
Sherry Hayes is awesome. A request was made for an addition to the Orientation web site and presto, it was done immediately. What a fantastic person!
I am nominating Nikki Bigelow, Heather Cosgrove, Stacy Olson and Charisse Welborn, our student employees, who work in Student Employment and Financial Aid for going the extra mile day in and day out in our office. With the implementation of Xtender for the upcoming academic year, these ladies have taken it all in stride and have prevailed. If it were not for them focusing on covering our front desk, keeping up with the scanning and indexing of student files, as well as keeping up with their daily duties, some of us in this office would have gone insane!!!! Their personality and quick laughter has helped to make some long days seem shorter. Thanks to these ladies for taking some of the stress off us in these trying times. You ROCK!
I am nominating Jeff Gabalis for a pat on the back award. I had a problem with a DVD that the state MARSP sent us to view at our next meeting, and it was not viewable. Having worked in the library, I knew that Jeff Gabalis was a possible person to help me solve the problem of the bad DVD. I took the DVD to him, and after a little bit of looking and fussing, he made a new one that is viewable. Without any hesitation, Jeff solved my problem as quickly as anyone could. If he is willing to assist retired old people like me, I know that he is there to solve the problems of students, faculty, and staff. All you have to do is ask. Please consider giving him a Pat-On-The-Back award the next time it is presented. He desereves it. Thank you for your consideration.
We would like to nominate Paul Heidmann for a Pat-On-The-Back.
A special thanks to Paul for the excellent work in creating a database to manage the Administration and Finance planning information as part of the new planning process and format. The data base made data entry for departments, organized all the A&F information, allowed for departmental/divisional prioritization and produced planning reports for all levels. Besides creating the database, Paul was always available to help with refinement whenever asked. This project was a big success because of him. Thanks Paul!!
Ted Halm deserves a HUGE pat-on-the-back! He has an amazing can-do attitude and always "gets-er-done" in record time. He is a great person to work with!
I would like to nominate the following people for a Pat-on-the-back award because of all of their awesome help with the Carnival Theme Meal we had at MASCAR GRILLE on April 15, 2009: Sue Iverson for donating prizes and making a cool animal train and lollipop tree. Mark Lane, Lora Ellison, Julie Knopf for decorating the CPAW’s fresh fruits & vegetables stand, and for making a wonderful fruit bowl for the students. Sally Maurer, Amy Huntey, Jeff Higley and Linda Aldrich for being team players and making a LOT of elephant ears. Craig Bowman for lending us his office as a storage unit. Thomas Weaver for putting a jail and a carnival sign together for us. Julie Modene for loaning us the popcorn machine from Dining. Mike Langan for his blessing and encouragement. Vicky Rockey for loaning us her treasure chest, and for all of her wonderful signs and time putting the changes into FoodPro for us. Dan VanHorn for being our “gofer this, gofer that” at the store. Gary Schneider for ordering the Apple Boscos. Jeff Stirn for handling all of the extra food that came in. Rick Modene for his Deep Fried Candy Bar recipe. Gordon Patton for loaning us the wonton wrappers and having to restock what we borrowed. Marianne Van Horn for being kind enough to roll with the changes in the front of the house. Kyle Carter, Jen Simon and Courtney Mather for help decorating on the day of. Paula Walter for helping advertise beforehand. Jacob Baker for helping make decorations. Brenna Kelley for letting us inflate some ballons, and Thomas Overholser for letting us use decorations from the Rock Cafe. All of you deserve a round of applause because YOU ROCK, and we made a lot of students really happy that day.
I would like to nominate Dava Cook from the Mail Room for a Pat on the Back Award. I needed to get some of our students applications for summer employment to an agency in Cadillac by the end of the month. Putting the forms in our regular mail had me worried that they would not make it in time. I called Dava and she agreed to wait for me to come over to the mail room to get the postage taken care of on that same days date and then personally delivered the packet to the Post Office on her way home, assuring that the students information would arrive before the deadline. I was very impressed that she was willing to do all of this.
I would like to nominate Jean Vallier from the Business Office. She always takes the initiative to make sure our "Sunshine Fund" is taken care of. She also keeps up on the pop orders. Jean is always thinking of others in time of need, and sees that they receive a card or small gift. Thanks Jean for all you do!!!
I would like to nominate Amber Balmer, Lizz Kelly, and Ian Nagy for their hard work and dedication in helping to bring free notebooks to Ferris next fall to give-a-way to students. Amber, Lizz, and Ian also researched and designed 8 pages that will be included in every notebook, as well as incorporating the 125th anniversary logo into a the cover of the notebook. I would also like to nominate Mark Schuelke for his support of this project as well. Mark has been instrumental in aiding in the contractual and logistical side of this project.
Ruth Ridderman, Administrative Secretary to the Associate Vice President for Marketing and Communications, deserves a Pat on the Back for her tireless work in overseeing the recent remodeling project in UAM. She helped to coordinate the moving of offices to temporary space, and then into the new permanent spaces. Ruth was also the go-between for the Physical Plant work crews and the outside vendors who set up the new cubicles for UAM staffers.
I would like to nominate Charlotte Bongard. Charlotte is always willing to go that extra mile to help my department. She will sit down with me anytime I need assistance with my budget, and if you ask Charlotte for something, she will do her very best to accommodate your needs. She is an awesome person and deserves to be recognized. She always does this with a smile. Thanks Charlotte for being a team player!
April 2009:
I would like to nominate our custodian for the Prakken building - Karen Youngs. Karen took over the job from someone else and had a lot of work to do to make things look good again in this building. She comes in every afternoon with a smile and we all enjoy seeing her start her shift. The building has never looked so good and Karen definitely takes pride in her work and her student follows her lead. We TRULY appreciate Karen and hope she stays our custodian for a LONG time.
Christa Walker in UA and M is the graphic designer for the commencement books for graduation and she has made the process of creating them much less stressful for everyone involved. She's always willing to squeeze a last minute name into the layout, and she finds fun and friendly ways to remind people of their deadlines to supply information. We appreciate her!
I would like to nominate Phil Tetsworth, Bonnie Thebo, and Barb Rice for their efforts in our food pantry donations. Every week, a local food pantry is donated money from the efforts of these people. This is a great service to the community and they deserve recognition for the idea and effort. THANKS!! Also thanks to everyone else who participates, I am sure that it helps many families in need.
I am nominating Chris Vodry for going the extra mile. Late on a Friday afternoon I had a last minute urgent request that I made of her. It was 10 minutes before she was to leave for the day and she had plans that evening. Chris stayed and got the job done.Chris is very organized, thorough, and professional in all that she does. She helps out whenever she sees people struggling or overwhelmed. She is an asset to the College of Business in many ways.
I nominate Kevin Rose for this award. He is the Custodian for the Second Floor of the Timme Center where Admissions and Records is located. He has been doing an outstanding job and our floor literally shines as a result of his efforts. Almost daily, we have large groups of prospective students and their parents coming to visit our floor. It is our only chance to make a great first impression with them. Because of Kevin's dedicated work, our area is clean, neat, and inviting. We appreciate his efforts in helping to attract students to the University. Great Job, Kevin.
I would like to nominate Kevin Rose (our new custodian) for a pat on the back award. In his short time at CSS 201, he has worked extremely hard to clean things up and keep them that way. He shows that he has tremendous pride in keeping our floor clean and many have commented that things have never been cleaner. I appreciate all his extra efforts. He definitely deserves a pat on the back. Thank you Kevin!
Over six days from March 9th to March 14th, the entire contents of the Rock Cafe from pictures to utensils and everything in between, needed to be relocated to the storage area of the Mascar basement for the Rock renovation. Glenn Zobel, and crew (Kimberly Walters, Dan Vanhorn, Marianne Vanhorn, Ken Starner, Bill Ruppel, Ron Patterson, Ed Green, Mike Toles, Bill Benedict, Dick Spedowske, Brian Krum, Lisa Willson), did an excellent job of shuttling these items from the Rock to Mascar. But the true "Pat on the Back" needs to go to six trainees that actually made this happen. Laura Ward, Kari Yost, Jim McIntyre, Sue Iverson, Cindy Kozminski, and Nicole Wright. All Dining Services trainees worked for six days worked outside their usual kitchen duties in Dining Services. Packing, sorting, and stacking items without fuss or complaint all week. This mission would not have been completed without their total dedication to the cause. I was very proud to have them as co-workers in this operation. Their attitude and dedication was outstanding. Thanks for a job well done.
I would like to nominate the HVAC crew (Bill Ruppel, Ed Green, Greg Kehr, Eli Williams, Tim Pullen, Mike Toles, Scott Ruiter, Bill Conrad). In the midst of all the scheduling confusion I asked my shop team to set aside their priorities last Monday and find a way to completely remove and reclaim the refrigerant at the ROC along with salvage on any useably equipment. In a matter of six working hours they had worked on 36 pieces of equipment using regulatory methods and safely prepared all the refrigeration equipment for storage or disposal. This includes a 25 ton chiller (5 years old), the DDC computer control, exhaust fans, 2 kitchen make up air (2 years old) 9 freezer/cooler refrigeration systems ( 3 years old), along with all the refrigerant., pressure switches, and other parts. I pushed them to keep within regulatory procedures making it much more difficult to get this done in the short window. They had to find creative methods to save time. I never doubted they could do it; they have never let FSU down yet. They did this with enthusiasm and professionalism. There were moments of mixed messages and communication gaps, however they remained calm and focused. They need to be recognized for this accomplishment just like so many others are cited in "pat on the back" type media. The University should be proud of their work and recognize their effort.
I would like to nominate Rob Wagner for an FSU Pat-on-the-Back award. Rob is a programmer in the Timme Center. He has to work with a lot of strong personalities. He is always kind and he is the most humble person I have ever met. He never makes anyone feel dumb for not understanding the programmer piece of our jobs. He is always willing to stay late and drop everything to help someone. I wish I could be more like Rob. He is just a kind, hardworking and peaceful person.
March 2009:
I would like to nominate Stephanie Patton, AM Cook at MASCAR GRILLE, for a Pat-On-The-Back Award. Many of our employees are terrific at producing healthy and delicious meals, but, may not be quite as skilled with a computer. Stephanie has taken her fellow team members under her wing and is teaching them all about the world of the internet, e-mails, and how to access pictures of their kids and grandkids. She has helped coordinate their efforts with the TAC Center to work out all their bugs. The next step is to teach them about our computerized menu management software. Great job Steph! Thanks for going above and beyond the call of duty and for caring so much for your fellow employees.
I would like to nominate Professors Robert Krueger and Kim Hancock from the College of Pharmacy for taking time out of their busy schedules to help the Academic Advising Team get access to a locked classroom and computer support for a presentation on February 10. Dr. Krueger saw me in the first floor hallway at 8:30 in the morning and asked if he could help in any way. When I said I was trying to get into room 303, he came to the third floor with me, opened the door and showed my visitors how the lighting in that lecture hall worked. Dr. Hancock joined us and, without any prompting, called tech services to make sure that the presentation for the morning could proceed as scheduled. While I don't think that this is unusual at Ferris, the fact that two pharmacy faculty could be so generous with their time and interest impressed both me and our visitors and it sure made my day easier. Thank you both.
I think that Maryanne Guenther and Kelly Normand deserve a Pat on the back for a job well done. They did a great job reorganizing our office and making it more efficient. Thanks women!
I would like to nominate Angie Mishler for a Pat-on-the-Back. Angie is always willing to help co-workers and recently has taken extra time to teach some of us new processes to better serve our prospective students. Angie often takes the initiative to learn new things on her own and then passes that knowledge on so that we can all benefit from what she has learned. Thanks Angie!!!
I would like to nominate Dan Spedowski "Spud". Spud is our custodian in University Eye Center. He has done amazing things over and beyond his job. Our patient waiting room is a square room with chairs and tables. Spud will move chairs and tables around time after time to change the look. It is amazing what he can come up with. It makes our day to look and see what he has done. He also noticed many boxes stacked up which were in our way, he left a note saying he moved them to a place out of the way. What a nice surprise. Thanks Spud, you make our day and we appreciate everything you do.
Our new custodian Vickie Edmonds is doing an awesome job here in Bishop Hall. The office floors have never look this good! Thank you Vickie for all your efforts..they are appreciated.
I want to nominate one of my students for a Pat-on-the-Back Award. The e-mail excerpt below makes the nomination and explains the reason.
Rebecca Feigenblatt, an Integrative Studies major living in St. Louis, MO, offers the following praise for Janelle Shoup, an English Education major living in Custer, MI: "I am not sure if this is the time or place to say this... however, I wanted to make sure to point out an amazing classmate of mine. This weekend I realized that I was missing the last two books of this anthology. So in the midst of freaking out I e-mailed Janelle (someone I have never met but I have had another class with her and we e-mail back and forth occasionally.) Without batting an eye, Janelle scanned the pages needed for the assignment this week and sent them to me. If anyone sees Janelle, please thank her for me, she saved my sanity, and certainly improved my evening. Dr. H, if you give out good student of the week awards, she really does deserve it this week." These students are taking my on-line LITR 352/English Literature 2 class, their second together, and they have never met face-to-face.
It is my pleasure to nominate Bob Horner from the Technology Assistance Center for the Pat-On-The-Back award. For extended period of time, Bob has provided diligent assistance and courteous follow up on a variety of technology related concerns. He always manages to find an answer regardless of what challenges he faces. Thank you for the exceptional service and keep it up! On behald of CPTS-GR and Pharmacy-Offsite, big THANK YOU!
I would like to nominate Shirryl Sanger, our custodian in the Alumni Building, for a Pat-on-the-Back Award. Shirryl is always happy, kind, and caring. She always goes the extra mile and when asked to do an extra project, she goes beyond expectations and completes the project with true pride in her work. It is always a pleasure to see her come in at the end of the day to start her night. She is very highly respected by the staff in the Alumni Building and we all appreciate her very much! Thank you Shirryl!
February 2009:
For many years, David Wininger, in Media Distribution and now with Computer Technology Services, has done a superb job of keeping projectors and other media equipment in good repair and running in our classrooms. Many times he has stayed late at night or come in early in the morning to repair or replace equipment so classes could proceed without interruption. David, who is technologically savvy, has also been a reliable source of information when planning new facilities and when remodelling. For all of the many things he has done to improve the quality of education at Ferris and for maintaining the equipment, David Wininger is most deserving of the Pat-On-The-Back award.
I would like to nominate Mike Brown for a pat on the back for doing such a great job helping stores out here at the plant by doing a special job for them and going out of his way. He did such a good job that he saved the paint crew from having to do extra work. Nice Job Mike
We would like to nominate Lori Rendel in Enterprise Technology Services for her work on the transition from fsuimail to Gmail for students. Lori did an outstanding job as the project leader, working with departments, meeting timelines, encouraging her team, and putting all the pieces together. She has worked diligently with Google, post-implementation, to resolve the problems with delayed emails. Every step of the way, Lori has been committed to making the imail transition a success.
I enthusiastically recommend Carrie Buss, Sally Russell, Leah Monger and Chris Jacobs for a pat on the back award for their efforts recently. There was an unusually large amount of withdrawn books available to be recycled and their efforts in transporting the books to the FLITE loading dock area was extremely helpful. Thank you so muck for your help.
I would like to nominate Bobbie Grow from the Accounts Payable office for the Pat-on-the-Back Award! I can't think of an easier person to deal with on campus than Bobbie! She takes on whatever the challenge is and gets the job done with a positive attitude!! I just want Bobbie to know that offices across campus really appreciate all she does in assisting with our specific needs!!
I would like to nominate Genevieve West for a Pat-On-The-Back Award. Genevieve has stepped in as Interim Department Head for the Language and Literature Department for over a year. She has worked very hard to meet the needs of a very large department and continue the department on a direction towards educational excellence.
Please allow me to nominate Lou Ann Kirkpatrick for a Pat-on-the-Back award. Lou Ann routinely sets the benchmark for ‘customer service’ as she greets and assists our prospective students and families who begin their campus visit experience on the second floor of the Timme Center for Student Services. Her welcoming demeanor and engaging attitude is critical to the overall success of the Office of Admissions & Records. Never has Lou Ann’s professionalism been as evident as to what was displayed by a recent encounter with one of our campus visitors. During a recent Daily Visit Admission’s presentation, a father of a prospective student experience discomfort within his chest and approached Lou Ann for assistance. With calming demeanor, Lou Ann provided immediate assistance to the father, while simultaneously communicating with emergency services. As a result of Lou Ann’s actions, emergency services evacuated the father to Mecosta County General Hospital and provided services accordingly. By day’s end, the prospective student’s father was resting comfortably and planning his return home. This Pat-on-the-Back award nomination is a public expression of the gratitude Enrollment Services feels towards the pride and professionalism displayed by Lou Ann Kirkpatrick. She is our Hero.
Roses are red, violets are blue, MASCAR GRILLE has the best Foodservice Worker Crew. I would like to nominate all of our Foodservice Workers because they do a good job everyday and don't always hear that they are. So Paula Walter, Salad Maurer, Jeff Higley, Amos Huntey and Lavonne DiTuilio, thank you for all that you do, we really appreciate it. :)
I would like to nominate the following people for a pat-on-the-back award: Betty Traynor, Mark Lane, Julie Knopf and Lora Ellison. These folks have been very patient with us as they were transplanted into our kitchen especially since we have to share a small kitchen together. Thank you for being patient and willing to work with and around the rest of us!! Also, thanks for some of the best tasting cookies and cream, lol.
I would like to nominate Steven Stellard in Applications Technology Services for a Pat-on-the-Back award. He is doing a great job as the HEAT administrator. I have asked for assistance, corrections, updates, and fixes on numerous occasions, and Steve has always taken the time to figure out the problems that I have and determines the best way to resolve those issues. I truly appreciate all of the work that he has done.
I would like to nominate Gary Myers and Colleen Sauntman for their outstanding dedication to Rankin Student Center. On top of their continued effort to stay on top of the ice and snow that is dragged into the building they continue to step up when asked to take on additional duties. In Rankin Student Center things change on a minutes notices with an extra mess to clean up or a extra room to be set up and they continue to say "Yes I will help" when asked to do beyond their normal work routine. Gary and Colleen we appreciate you more than you know.
Paul Heidemann has done a wonderful job creating the strategic planning database for Admin & Finance. He has spent many hours creating and re-tooling the database and reports to all the many specifications that have been requested. He does this all willingly and with a smile. Thank you so much, Paul!
I would like to nominate Ernie Hollenbeck for a pat on the back award. Ernie is a custodian in SRC. On Saturday nights, he works alone with minimal supervision and handles custodial calls after 10:30 pm. that come from DPS. At times Ernie is called to make independent decisions, including working past his scheduled shift in order to accommodate students, faculty and staff. Calls usually come from residence halls or married housing apartments and we can count on Ernie to take care of the problem or to contact his Supervisor. Ernie is always willing to go above and beyond his duties to insure that whatever the situation calls for, it is taken care of. He asks himself "what's the right thing to do" and then does it.
January 2009:
I would like to nominate Jeff Stirn for the pat on the back award for the wonderful job that he does at Mascar Grille. Even though his work load has more than doubled this year he still works so hard to help out and make everyone else’s job as easy as he can. He is very much appreciated and I want to thank him for all that he does.
I want to nominate carpenters Ron Patterson and Randy Wheeler for the Pat on the back award. These two men continue to exceed the expectation of the HVACR program here in the Granger building. We have given them numerous challenges to build or create their own design for various cabinets, display carts and shelving units. As always is the case they always come through for us in a very timely manner.
I would like to nominate Leeann O'Neal, computer technician from CTS for a Pat on the Back Award. I have been employed at Ferris for several years and have never been able to access my Lotus Notes from off site. Several have tried over the years to fix this but Leeann did! Leeann's response to our area's needs are always fast and courteous. With her "can do" attitude she is a great asset to the University.
I would like to nominate Lisa Knudson for a pat-on-the back. Lisa has a very positive attitude and is so willing to go the extra mile to help. Recently, I needed to reserve a conference room near her office. She called me the morning of the meeting and had made sure the room was ready and had the coffee brewing. This was way beyond my expectations. She is a great asset to her departments and to FSU.
I would like to nominate Hailey Patterson for the award. She works as a student at the FSU Ice Arena ticket office and many other positions at the Ice Arena. Hailey had to work the FSU Pro Shop the day of Graduation and a parent came into the Pro Shop who needed to buy some batteries for her camera so she could take pictures of her son at graduation. Hailey didn't have any to sell her so she gave the mother her own personal camera so she could get some pictures of her son at graduation and would e-mail her the pictures. If it wasn't for Hailey giving the mother her camera she would not been able to get any pictures of her son graduating.
I would like to nominate Jeff Carney for a Pat-On-The-Back Award. Returning to work on Monday, January 5, I found myself stranded on the ice by the parking lot in front of the Timme Center. Jeff was driving by in his truck, noticed my dilemma, and quickly came to my aid; not only helping me over the ice, but across the road as well, he said, so he wouldn't have to run over me!
Thanks Jeff
I would like to nominate Kris Rasmussen and Jim Cook for a Pat-on-the-Back award. While it can never be fun for them to have to bring our computer systems down to do maintenance, the timing of this for the month of December made some of us in the Records Office very concerned, as the official grades were to post that same night, and hundreds of transcripts needed to get out the next day with those grades on. These guys did a mini-trial run with us before hand and monitored the situation very closely before and after the shutdown of Banner to make sure everything worked as planned, which it did. Thanks for taking care of us!
I would like to nominate the Admissions Office Clerical Staff for their outstanding student service during spring orientation. Orientation is a very hectic and busy event. The clerical staff consistently does an incredible job with smiles on their faces! This is a perfect example of Ferris pride! The Spring Orientation 09' clerical staff includes Shelli Garland, Charlotte Tetsworth, Becky Prunty, Julie Cole, Donna Myers, Judy Becker, Leigh Ann Theunick, Linda Stebleton, Lou Ann Kirkpatrick, and Natalia Carvalho-Pinto.
I would like to nominate Pepper Bonnett and Nicole Merritt for a pat on the back award. They are ALWAYS willing to step up and help the Student Services counter at Timme during very busy times and it is greatly appreciated.
December 2008:
I would like to nominate Pepper Bonnett for a pat-on-the-back award. She handled a situation with a student on the phone extremely well and deserves recognition for it. Her professional manner was noticed by her co-workers at the Timme front counter. Thanks!
Al Eastlund deserves a Pat-on-the-Back award! We have asked him to do several projects for the First Lady's Attic and it seems as soon as we ask the projects are completed. When the Attic needed more clothes racks we met with Al on a Monday afternoon and showed him what we wanted by Thursday morning the racks were built and in place. We would also like to thank Dave Murray and the Ferris welding students who actually built the racks, with Al's guidance. Thanks for going above and beyond.
I would like to nominate Elizabeth Haneline - SCI-147, Curtis Earl - SCI-147 and Stacey Weaver - ALU-114 for a Pat on the back. Beth and Curtis helped out team Sigma with emergency work orders as well as performing their regular team Beta work. Stacey Weaver and her Inventory students helped provide coverage for unfilled shifts in Sigma ensuring that we would have someone here to address all customer requests. The teamwork Beth, Curtis and Stacey displayed is the reason we have such great customer satisfaction.
I would like to nominate Tom Worth (FSU Motor Pool Garage) for a Pat-On-The-Back Award. He went above and beyond and diagnosed a leak on one of the big coach buses. Saved the University money and got the bus back on the road in a hurry! Thanks, Tom!
I would like to make sure that Bill Bitzinger receives a pat on the back for his helping one of our International Students. She was having a problem sizing an immigration photo and Bill was very kind when we contact him. Not only did he provide answers and then offer his services, he also made sure the picture met the goverment regulations. Thank you, Bill. You are a credit to Ferris State University.
I would like to nominate Betty Nelson, for a pat on the back award. She is always willing to answer questions and if she doesn't have the answer she knows who to get the answer from. She has helped us with making sure that student information is accurate. She goes above and beyond the call of duties. Thank you for all of your knowledge and expertise. Betty, you Rock.
November 2008:
Dr. Don Roy deserves a big pat on the back for his project to hang the "Political Engagement Talk Back" poster on the wall on the first floor of Starr Building. It has become a center for students to post their comments on politically engaging questions and it consistently sparks an on-going conversation about today's political events. He changes the topic every week and monitors the board during the week. I teach just outside the part of the hallway that hosts the board and you would not believe how many students make it a regular part of their day to stop, read, post, and discuss the important topics there. Dr. Roy has been at this project for years and certainly deserves more than a pat of the back for his important efforts.
I would like to nominate Cheryl Kondziola and Nina Davis for the Pat on the Back award. Both of them did outstanding work this year in their fiscal year clean up for their Colleges. They take pride in doing their jobs and they do it with great attitudes. They help make our jobs easier in the Finance area. Thanks again Ladies !
I'd like to nominate Shana Beisiegel and the international students for hosting the Ten Thousand Villages in Rankin Center. What a wonderful way to expose all of us on campus to international arts and crafts. I look forward to the next event.
I would like to nominate Lynn Bowen for a Pat on the Back. Lynn is the nicest coworker. She was very inspirational and supportive with the Homecoming decorating contest. She took the idea and helped turn our Communication Center into a western town. She also does a wonderful job with students, coworkers and everyone she deals with. She is a bright spot in our department.
To Amy Otteson for her extraordinary help with Academic Program Review surveys, data, and charts. She is always willing to go the extra mile. Without her help, the process would take extra amounts of time and effort. She takes on the burden willingly and very effectively. Bravo!
I would like to nominate Linda Kuk for a pat on the back award. Linda has lots of students to advise and she is always willing to meet with them and she always does it with a smile. Even if she has had a very busy day she always treats the students with care and concern with their program and when they need to switch programs. Linda you rock!!!!!!!!!
October 2008:
I would like to nominate Wendy Hardy, Jes Berndt, and CJ Yerington for a Pat-on-the-Back award. After the Big Screen Movie for Welcome Week many attendees left trash and garbage all over the Quad, and it would have been a big job for the few members of the Welcome Week Committee to stay and clean up. These three offered to help, and it was greatly appreciated. Jobs like that are not the most fun to do, but they saw an opportunity to step up and thankfully they did. Not only are they great Hall Directors, but they are great volunteers!
Cindy Horn, Jane Hardybala, and the student staff members of the Student Recreation Center deserve a big Pat-on-the-Back! When weather forced the Founders' Day activities to be indoors they were very accommodating on short notice. The event was a big success and a large part of it was due to the their willingness to help and put in some extra work beyond their normal work duties. THANK YOU!
A big thank you goes out to Brenna Kelly, Julie Modene, Stan Vallier and the rest of the staff members in Dining Services and Catering for all their help with Welcome Week events. Due to the scheduling change with classes starting after Labor Day some adaptations needed to be made to the Welcome Week schedule and they were more than accommodating, providing a great picnic dinner on Labor Day, ice cream for the Rockin' in the Rec Center event, and free beverages for the attendees of the Big Screen Movie on the Quad. Thanks for going above and beyond!
Geri Johnson is just a pleasure to work with and she deserves a big Pat-on-the-Back! I worked with Geri to incorporate the Ice Cream Social into the Founders' Day Celebration as a part of Welcome Week. Her spunky personality and kind heart definitely showed through, as I'm sure it does with every project she is involved in. She makes it easy to collaborate and bring these two events together, resulting in a great occasion for students, employees and community members.
I would like to nominate Dr. Paul Blake for the Pat-on-the-back award. His dedication to students and staff is remarkable. He always has a smile, a kind and an approachability with out question. His honesty and genuine commitment of his staff and students leaves a lasting impression of someone who is looking for the success of all. He is truly making a positive difference each day. Thank you Dr. Blake for making your mark here at Ferris State University.
The first pay for every fall semester Payroll staff Sheryl Hickman, Bonnie Depew, and Deb Savides is challenged in processing several thousand positions (PAF'S, student intents, direct deposits, W-4's, tax shelters, union dues, ect). We all need to be proud of the job they do with the high level of accuracy and their commitment to meet the needs of all departments requiring there services. Truly they deserve a Big Pat on the Back!
Hats off to Brian Estes and Charlyn Davis, Journeyman Painters, who painted the third floor of Starr recently. They did a great job and returned several days later to make sure we were happy. They are true professionals!
Regardless of the time of year, the Payroll Office (Joe Riddering, Sheryl Hickman, Bonnie Depew and Deb Savides) is always busy. These past several weeks have been overwhelming for them. Processing hundreds of PAF's, student intent-to-hires, entering in union dues, new hire information, adjustments, and overall monitoring of all employees, this team consistently does an outstanding job, and their dedication to their job is above and beyond. Thank you for your hard work and for doing your very best in getting everyone paid!
I would like to nominate Tina Jensen, Operations Technician, Technology Assistance Center, for a Pat on the Back Award. Tina has superior customer service skills and patience. She is an asset to her department and to this University. I appreciate the way she does business.
September 2008, Nominator's Comments:
I want to nominate orientation student helper, Kelli Forrest, for a well-deserved Pat-on-the-Back. During orientation, a new student lost her cell phone. Kelli went from building to building and room to room from Timme to the College of Business and IRC, to Rankin Center and finally back to Granger, retracing the student's footsteps. She also checked each building's lost & found. Kelli didn't find it, but the student did later in a chair in the IRC connector. Kelli went above and beyond what someone else might have done. We are lucky to have such a conscientious student. Thank you, Kelli!
I would like to nominate student workers, Melanie Kimpton and Jacqueline Edwards, for the Pat-on-the-Back award. They work tirelessly for the College of Business. They are part of the backbone of our office, and they work diligently, so our office and especially the orientation/registration process runs smoothly. Great job ladies!
I would like to extend my gratitude to Jennifer Thede for her exceptional support and assistance for CPTS-GR and the College of Pharmacy-offsite. Jennifer goes far and beyond to help with software related questions. She always finds an answer no matter what challenges come her way. Jennifer is an extraordinary employee, and I am honored to work with her.
I'd like to nominate Faye Young of Res. Life Custodial for a Pat on the Back. Recently Faye organized (with the help of many others I'm sure)
a short notice benefit hot dog lunch for one of the Ferris Grounds Crew workers who had spent time at Mayo Clinic. In just a few days, pop,
chips, hot dogs and buns were bought, and several people brought in salads & desserts for the fundraiser. In addition, tickets were sold
for a chance to win a "goody basket". Although several people helped and contributed, I am told Faye was the driving force and as a result,
several hundred dollars were raised in a short time to help out a friend and co-worker in need. Way to go Faye!
Beth Pacholka, Part-time Customer Service Representative for Dining Services, deserves a double Pat-on-the-Back Award! Beth is so dedicated and goes out of her way to help each person that comes to or calls her desk. During this busy check in time Beth has helped so many students and promised every parent she is here for their child if needed, she is sincere. Beth does not have the word “no” in her vocabulary, if she doesn’t know how to or the answer, she manages to find out how or a way to get the job done. She remains positive and always has time for others. Just stop by RAN 145 to see for yourself how great a person she is! We love her!!!
I would like to Thank Jeannette Seither, Sandra Holley and Kimberly Walters for the great work they did in my building, the team work and did what ever was asked of them.
August 2008, Nominator's Comments:
I have worked at Ferris for more than 30 years and I think it is time to nominate the entire Birkam Health Center Staff: Joe Ward, Susan Davis, Keith Newell, Sharon Metcalf, Anglea McCain, Catherine Tassell, Cande Price, Melissa Sprague, Joan Kronlein, Julie Saum. All of these employees have been extremely dedicated to Ferris and to the care of the students that visit the Health Center. They have been there for the students through injuries and sickness. They are all great listeners and there for a shoulder to cry on when the students need someone to care for them. We watch them grow through their university years and always wish the best for all of them. These are a GREAT bunch of people you have working for Ferris.
I want to recognize Cindy Curran who was an adjunct for Grand Rapids campus.Her follow up on student matters and addressing concerns of students' class attendance shows how dedicated she is to our students. Thank you Cindy for all you do for Ferris Grand Rapids!
While working in the Pharmacy Building on Monday, July 14, 2008, around 10:45 A.M., Al Tetsworth exuded what it means to have Ferris Pride. Al watch in horror as Rick Fountain, Journeyman Electrician, almost fell to the ground when he stepped on a large puddle of freshly spilled coffee as he entered the first floor. The coffee was spilled by another person who had entered the building just ahead of Rick. Without further ado, Al garnered a mop, cleaning solution, a bucket, and spotlessly cleaned the entire area. Al could have followed standing protocol and called the Physical Plant. They would have dispatched a custodian as soon as possible. However, the dangerous spill could have caused several injuries by the time they mobilized and travel to the location. Addressing this dangerous situation in the manner that Al did was not remotely a part of his job description. Further, Al took care of a dangerous slip and fall situation that was caused by the person that initially spilled the coffee, all without recrimination.
Thank goodness for Teresa Havens in Motor Pool. After a mistake on my part and not picking up keys as I should have, I was called on Sunday by the faculty member as he was wondering why the keys were not where they were supposed to be. I was speechless . . . for a few minutes . . . then, not knowing what to do, I called Teresa Havens at her home on a SUNDAY and left a message. She returned my call promptly and was more than willing to drive out of her way on SUNDAY to meet the faculty member at the Motor Pool Office so that he was able to leave on time. Teresa . . . for you to go out of your way like that is totally commendable and you need to know that you are a tremendous asset to all the departments here on campus. Thank you.
I would like to nominate Laurie Noell from Human Resources for a Pat on the Back. I pestered her with repeated questions about a transition from one job to another at the university, and she answered them all quickly, and really helped me understand my benefits package. Keep up the great work Laurie - we appreciate it!
July 2008, Nominator's Comments:
I would like nominate Mary Kolenda for a Pat-on-the-Back award! She is so much fun to work with! Not only is she one of the most knowledgeable and hardworking people in the office (if not in Kendall!) she always finds a way to brighten our day. She is always friendly to the students and knows many of them by name. Whenever I have an obscure question, she is one of my first go to people for an answer. I know if I need something to get done, she will fulfill the task in record time. I can count on Mary to keep my spirits up and be a real team player. She is one of the most important players in our office and it wouldn't be the same without her!
The payroll office would like to see John Bishop and Charles Zimmerman receive a pat on the back for the rescue of a little kitty outside of the Prakken building. Even though they didn't believe that there was a kitten hiding in the bushes, they looked until they found it. A student came out of the building as they were looking and ended up taking the kitten home with her.
I am recommending Scott Claerhout, Leaann O'Neal, Brent Kundinger, James Swearingen (student), and Sean Waanders (student) for the Pat-on-the-Back award. Ferris recently hosted the Banner Users Group of Michigan Conference in the IRC. This conference consisted of about 115 people from various Michigan colleges and universities. The Team Delta members listed above worked with the program committee closely to make sure each presenter was able to get going on time without any problems. It was only with their proactive support that we were able to show other Michigan colleagues our nice facilities and our outstanding "team" work. Thank you!
I would like to nominate Kent Kachaterian from Media Productions. The custodial marketing team was in a crunch to get a banner done for orientation and Kent was able to help us out and make us an awesome looking banner for our table in a matter of a few hours. Our thanks again to Kent for helping us out in a bind. It looks wonderful!
I would like to submit Dave Steffens for a PAT ON THE BACK AWARD. Throughout the implementation of the Banner system and now, our office has submitted request to him for table access, database changes, data retrievals and other items to help correct problems occurring in the system or just errors resulting for our oversight or poor judgement. He has been very responsive to our request, time and time again. He is always patient and understanding no matter what his stress level that challenges he may be facing. I cannot say enough about his positive attitude and demeanor when we are requesting information under stressful situations. It is has been a pleasure to work with him on database issues or problems we encounter. I can count on him to give us positive feedback and suggestions to help us address database issues. I believe my staff would agree with me that this PAT ON THE BACK AWARD is LONG OVER DUE.
I would like to nominate Robert (Bob) Horner of the Technology Assistance Center for a Pat on the Back Award. Bob has been relentless in his efforts to assist the Applications department personnel with one of the problems with the new MyFSU portal. On several occasions he has devoted his personal time to troubleshoot connectivity or access problems from his home, in order provide valuable information to the application programmer. His dedication and commitment are exemplary and deserving recognition by the entire Ferris Community. Bob, thank you for your time, dedication, and desire to assist in the resolution of a problem affecting numerous MyFSU users.
On behalf of the employees of the Prakken building, I would like to nominate Karen Youngs(our custodian) for a pat on the back. Karen works extremely hard and takes great pride in keeping our building clean. The floors, windows, doors, railings, etc. have never been cleaner. We are very appreciative of the extra effort she puts fourth.
June 2008, Nominator's Comments:
Chris Pommerenke has a zeal for customer service that goes above and beyond what is expected of any employee. His daily focus is to make sure that his customers in the College of Technology are taken care of and it shows. He is not afraid to stand up and fight for what is best for his customers even when it is contrary to popular opinion. It is tough to be in the minority of a conversation and still fight for what is right, especially when it is for other people.
Keep up the good work Chris!
I would like to nominate both Vicki Deur and Terri Aldrich for their wonderful efforts during the implementation of the new MyFSU portal. They have worked very hard and fielded calls during implementation with calmness and a professional attitude. Kudos as well to the Portal Advisory committee, led by Jennifer Hegenauer, for all of the hard work in planning the changes for the new portal. It looks great! YOU ALL DESERVE A PAT ON THE BACK! Thank you.
I would like to nominate our TAC workers. They do a great job of keeping our computers working they way they should. They are always very helpful and courteous when we need a "quick fix." Allied Health is very Lucky to have such a great team. The TAC members are: Jesse Klocke, Shawn Lagasse, Sam James, Rob Freridge and Mike Johnson
I would like to nominate Ernie Hollenbeck for doing what was needed without being asked to do it and taking the initiative to make it happen.
I would like to nominate Scott Cass for taking time out of his duties to help out with Summer University.
May 2008, Nominator's Comments:
Pat on the Back to student Charles Peirce from the Associated Student Government who helped set up the electronic voting procedures for the Academic Senate elections last week. And to Ted Halm who made the link easy to use on the homepage. Moving faculty into the electronic age requires careful handling - but these fellows were there to answer every question from Academic Senate Secretary Paula Hadley-Kennedy. Also, Pat on the Back to Paula for making our committee look like we knew what we were doing!
During the process of our unit restructuring, and being separated between two Colleges, we ran into some payroll issues between PAFs and Kronos. I would like to commend Linda Henderson and Bonnie Depew for going outside of their realm of responsibility to see these issues were taken care of.
I would like to give Jack Enos, Physical Plant Plumber, a pat-on-the-back. MASCAR GRILLE ran into a serious problem with our dish machine. To replace this machine would cost approximately $50,000.00 - $60,000.00. Jack came up with a creative, yet practical solution that enabled us to bring our current machine back on line. Jack's idea saved the University a great deal of time, effort, and money. Great job Jack! (Rick Marek, thank you for your assistance.)
Hats off to Tina Jensen, David Bowers, and the Account Management crew in ITS. Tina and Dave spent hours mapping out all the ID workflow for over 21 systems we have on campus. Needless to say, it was tedious work to find all the answers. Their work will help us streamline our processes in the near future.
I wish to give a Pat on the Back Award to Matt Dixon, Automotive Department, for his work in getting several of the automotive lab areas set up for classes. He worked on making sure that the equipment, tools and lab vehicles were kept in the lab, and in keeping an eye on the rest of us to keep the lab area clean and maintained. He was helped by others and in particular Walter ‘Mike’ Kelly, Automotive Department Maintenance Technician, who also was a big factor in keeping the cars in working order and in cleaning up the lab. He also deserves a Pat on the Back for his work within the department.
I would like to award a "Pat on the Back" award to Beth (Elizabeth) Haneline. She works in Computer Technology Services. She has always been accessible for our needs on almost an immediate basis. In addition to her timely response she is proactive in communicating with our department to make sure we have access to the all needed technology resources. She always follows up to a work order and does everything with a positive attitude. Our department is very happy to have her serving our area.
I would like to nominate Tirzah Yoder for a "Pat on the Back" for coming to work with a positive attitude and ready to get the program changes done and recorded. She always goes the extra mile whether it be with a student or staff. Tirzah is very detailed, always polite and cheerful, and works well under pressure. She takes her duties seriously and always does a top-notch job. We will definitely miss her!
April 2008, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to nominate Paul Kwant. I know that Paul has become our utility fielder for the office of Admissions and Records. He handles everything from rescheduling our New Student Receptions, which were cancelled in January due to inclement weather, to handling last minute materials requested by various offices across campus. He is definitely valued and depended on to come through when the going gets tough. For example, just recently he had to step back into his former role as admissions officer when the officer assigned to present at our Saturday Dawg Days Visit ended up with laryngitis. Not an easy feat to get in front of 200 guests and give a presentation that you haven't done in over a year. He did wonderful and the visitors appreciated his expertise.
I would like to nominate Sarah Rice for a pat on the back award. Sarah has been instrumental in our stewardship & donor relations area for two specific activities. First, Sarah managed the Presidents football box to a new level here at FSU. Sarah put in countless hours and made many behind the scenes things work efficiently and effectively. Second, Sarah managed our endowment reporting/discussion process along with Pam Harvey and did an excellent job. The amount of detail in preparing endowment reports was extremely difficult. Sarah did an excellent job bringing the right parties to the table and preparing to get the reports mailed to donors on time. In addition, Sarah is always willing to assist with new and ongoing projects with a great attitude.
I would like to nominate the following people for their extra efforts during spring break. This group was responsible for testing 150 computers and breaking down another 150 computers, resulting in the disposal of 4500 pounds of computer components. David Coleman,Daniel Bowmen, Eric Burson, Jennifer Rhodes, Gary Lutz, Paul Heidemann, Allison Mandley, Heather Witter, Tina Hilgeman, Will Duran, Steve Bohren.
I would like to nominate Walter (Mike) Kelly, automotive department maintenance technician. Mike helped me this past week by creatively hooking up a tank so that I could perform a valuable expansion valve demonstration for my automotive HVAC students. Mike does not come up with excuses rather he delivers with solutions. He helps us to help our students. Thank you!
I would like to nominate Mike DePew for a pat on the back. He was able to retrieve some lost data, quickly and was a lifesaver. His attention to the problem and his expertise are to be commended.
I would like to nominate the following people for a Pat-on-the-back award: Mike Langan, Vicky Rockey, Amber Morgan, Jeannette Seither, Rachel Bonner, Tom Morris and Paula Walters. On Thursday, March 27, 2008 these folks gave the Big Rapids Brownie Troop #3121 a tour of MASCAR Grille . While the girls were at MASCAR they also learned about how the best pizzas on campus are made and had a blast. Thank you for making the day special for the girls.
March 2008, Nominator's Comments:
Please give a Pat-On-The-Back to Glenn Zobel and his moving crew, and to painters Allen Tetsworth and Richard Spedowske, for the care and TLC they provided to HR during our recent moves when our new carpet was installed! The move went VERY well and the wall painting (and the special color!) were all very much appreciated!
I would like to nominate the Business Office and Center for Student Services. They have worked very hard so far this year with Orientation, Refund Checks and Direct Deposits. Some things did not go as planned but they were able to keep the student happy and correct the situation. Good job and keep up the good work! Business Office: Kristy Heeter, Erin Adkins, Pepper Bonnett, Kim Graboskey, Deborah Griffith, Nicole Merritt, Paul Quick, Barbara Rice, Natasha Diegert, Bonnie Thebo. Center for Student Services: Kelly Boos, Maryanne Priemer, Jean Vallier, Syed Ali, Mike Cline, Melissa Dohnal, Sam Fattore, Jerome Forbes, Paul Peoples.
I'd like to nominate Brenna Kelley and Stan Vallier from Catering Services for the Pat on the Back Award. We recently had a candidate change interview dates. We neglected to change the catering order, but they were able to deliver lunch for 15 people in less than 30 minutes! They are always willing to help us out even when it's very short notice. We appreciate everything you (and all your employees) do for us! Thank you so much!
I would like to nominate Adam Fortman of the Technology Assistance Center, for a Pat-on-the-back award, for his willingness to step-up and assist faculty members with technology problems outside the scope of his duties, when technicians have gone home for the day. On at least two occasions Adam has been asked to endure the adverse climate this winter and walk to academic locations to assist classes in session with technical difficulties during the evening when the technicians are not available. He has done so with enthusiasm and the goal of customer support and satisfaction being his first priority, just as all the members of the Technology Assistance Center.
Teri Ouderkirk does an outstanding job covering the office, doing all of the little things that make it work and she always does it with a smile. Great job and thanks.
Sue Brown does an awesome job multitasking many duties everyday and is a joy to work with. Keep up the good work.
Craig Bowman has taken on many new challenges in his training job. Craig looks at issues with a bright outlook and common sense in dealing with a multitude of issues.
I called Tina Jensen this morning around 6:00 and told her that Sherry in Payroll could not print last night and I couldn't print this morning, and we have close to 1400 student refund checks to print today! She called about 5 minutes ago and said Mike Miklusicak fixed the problem. They deserve a pat-on-the back :) I am glad they come in early, so we can get these types of problems fixed before everyone else gets here.
I would like to nominate Tim Maguire, the Custodian at MASCAR GRILLE for a Pat-on-the-back award. Since Tim began working in our kitchen, he has done an excellent job keeping things looking nice and we want him to know that all of his hard work doesn't go unnoticed. Thanks for cleaning the place up Tim, we appreciate all that you do for us. :)
Al Tetsworth is a Ferris State University employee that deserves a Pat on the Back. Al is regularly employed as a painter for Ferris State Physical Plant. While recuperating from knee surgery during late fall and early winter, Al filled an important position in the work control center of the Physical Plant. Help was desperately needed in the Physical Plant office as one of their full-time employees transferred to another position on campus. Al answered our call for help. Al came to fill the vacant position of clerk typist with no complaints. It was a position that many other craftsmen would not willingly choose to take. But Al came in everyday with a smile. He quickly learned to make work orders, dispatch work orders, answer and transfer phone calls, and many of the other daily tasks that were immensely different from his daily tasks on the painting crew. Al regularly gave reassurance to people who were upset about problems and made every effort necessary to help them resolve their issue. He made the entire office atmosphere more enjoyable and workable, making even the most challenging days more tolerable. Al brought an entirely new perspective to the office. He refreshed the attitudes of the employees in the office. They looked forward to coming to work with Al. He helped things run smoothly when without him the office may have faltered. Al showed respect to all employees, faculty, and student workers alike. Student workers could come to Al with questions, and he would happily answer or help in any way possible. He did anything he was asked and more. Al was a great help, a great person to work with, and a very pleasant person for clients to deal with. Al had a very positive impact on the Physical Plant office while he was filling in. After healing, Al returned to painting. He was and still is greatly missed by those who worked with him. THANKS AL – YOUR EFFORTS WERE TRULY APPRECIATED!
February 2008, Nominator's Comments:
Way to go Physical Plant (Annette Erler and Glenn Zobel)! You came through for Computer Support Technology again. On the afternoon of December 5, I called the Physical Plant and requested (at the last minute) chairs to be delivered on December 6th for our student Christmas party AND sure enough your van pulls up on December 6 at about 9:00am and in come the chairs. Thank you so much! We had a full house and without your assistance, we would have had about 30 or more students without a place to sit and enjoy lunch. FURTHERM0RE… without requesting a pickup, you came back on December 7 and loaded the chairs up and drove away.
I would like to Nominate Melanie Morris for a Pat on the Back award. She has made the student service office the best place in the world to work and to be. She is a calm and steady worker who always gives 110% percent. She cares about our students and her co-workers and is always bringing in candy and little gifts for all of us to enjoy. She has a great memory that give everything she does a personal touch! This always makes our students feel special. We could not give the efficient and warm service we have come to give with out her! Thanks for all your hard work Melanie!
I nominate Leigh Ann Theunick for a Pat on the Back. Anytime we need help with Banner or to have something done on an application, Leigh Ann responds quickly and consistently with a sweet spirit. We love her and couldn't do our jobs without her.
I would like to nominate Shana Beisiegel for a Pat-On-The-Back Award. Shana worked very diligently with the organization of International Student Orientation in January. As a part-time employee Shana goes beyond her duties and brings creativity to our office. She is a tremendous asset to the International Student Advisor’s Office because of her care and concern with every international student. Ferris is lucky to have such a great employee.
My hat is off to Linda Telfer and Judy Becker for fearlessly wading in and keeping the Communications Center afloat during this minor crisis today. After the regular agents left mid-morning, Linda and Judy -- without training -- logged in and answered the phones. I spot-checked the call flow and noticed at times the pace was grueling with calls on line and several calls waiting. There were a few problems and some calls were abandoned, but there were roughly 500 calls answered by the Communications Center today!! Good job Linda and Judy.
I called Tina Jensen this morning around 6:00 and told her that Sherry in Payroll could not print last night and I couldn't print this morning, and we have close to 1400 student refund checks to print today! She called about 5 minutes ago and said Mike Miklusicak fixed the problem. They deserve a pat-on-the back : ) I am glad they come in early, so we can get these types of problems fixed before everyone else gets here.
I would like to thank Doug Ginnever and Rick Fountain who came to my rescue on Wednesday, just after the university had shut down. They happened to be over at the CSS building locking it up, when I asked them if they could assist me because I couldn't get the door on my truck to stay shut. They braved the cold, wind, and blowing snow trying to get the latch freed so that I could get on my way. After about 20 minutes working on it, the door latch proved it was not going to budge and I thanked them for their help. These gentlemen went above and beyond the call of duty that day, and I just wanted them to know that their service to the university is appreciated. Note: Truck had to be taken to Scott's Body Shop, a part broke, that caused the lock mechanism to remain in that position, causing parts to be replaced.
Ruth Simmon is doing a great job here in Johnson hall. She is an exemplary custodian. She is an asset to our staff. We enjoy having her on board.
She is always willing to accommodate our needs in the building and she always has a great attitude.
I would like to thank Karen Youngs for all of her efforts at the Auto Center and being on call if anything is needed when others are not available. Karen always has a great work ethic and always has a positive outlook. Way to go Karen. She is a great asset to our staff!!!!!!!
January 2008, Nominator's Comments:
I want to nominate Keri Becker for a pat on the back award. Keri has gone above and beyond the call of her duties on a daily basis. Not only does she care deeply about her own players, but she genuinely cares about the coaches at Ferris and their players. She will do anything she can to help her peers excel and often works odd hours just to make things more convenient for others. She takes pride in helping all the teams be NCAA compliant, she coaches, she mentors, she volunteers (Army reserve and Girl Scout Day, among other things), and she's a true friend. Keri deserves a pat on the back!
Climate control in FLITE is a big challenge! Mike Toles has worked diligently to maintain proper temperature and airflow in the building. We appreciate his expertise and thank him for his efforts.
Kathy Lake deserves a Pat-On-The-Back for all the hard work she put into making the Student Affairs Retreat a success. As chair of the Planning Committee, she organized and ran an effective day of information gathering and team-building for all employees in the Division of Student Affairs. Her easy-going personality and strong leadership skills made working with her an absolute pleasure.
I would like to recommend Annette Erler, Glenn Zobel and the entire Physical Plant moving crew for much-deserved recognition. For the second year in a row I forgot to put in a work order for tables to be delivered for a special departmental holiday event. At my extremely last-minute request, Annette contacted the moving crew and they dropped what they were doing (preparing for commencement!!) to deliver the tables. It's a pleasure to work with an area that always goes above and beyond to accommodate.
I would like to nominate Mandi Oglesby one of our student workers here at the HVACR Institute for a pat on the back award. Last Tuesday December 11th, 2007 as Mandi was returning from lunch there was an accident in front of the CPD Building in which a minivan slid through the intersection and collided with a semi tractor. Mandi is a trained firefighter in her hometown of Sault St. Marie MI. She immediately responded to the accident scene called 911, and remained with the lady in the minivan until help arrived continuing to reassure the woman that everything would be okay. In today's world, where so many times people prefer not to get involved, Mandi's actions certainly attest to her exceptional character and willingness to put others needs ahead of her own. Keep up the good work Mandi.
I would like to nominate Steve Huss, Grounds Worker Operator at the Physical Plant, for a "Pat on the Back" award. I appreciate his honesty in returning an uncashed check I was to use to purchase Christmas presents with!
I would like to nominate Rick Marek, Phil Balliet and Jack Enos for the outstanding job they do in our building and they always keep us informed as to when things are being shut off and why and this is very nice for us. And it makes it easier to plan for the day when they give us the heads up. Great JOB!!!!!!!!!
December 2007, Nominator's Comments:
Mike Troupe is a key person in the operation of FSU facilities and much of his work is done unseen. He always takes his work seriously and even follows up on his own time. Lately he has come back to work on off hours and week ends to assist the HVAC/R shop with control problems without compensation or even any one knowing he sacrificed his personal time. Mike is so helpful it is hard not to take him for granted. His responsibilities are broad and complex but Mike seldom voices any objection. Mike is a highly loyal and effective member of the Physical Plant. My hat’s off to him almost every day.
Ed Green and Bill Conrad took a bad situation to task and solved what several others, and I, told them couldn't be done. They trusted their instincts and used their combined knowledge to work out a difficult operational problem at Swan. If they had not come forward and accepted the challenge it would not have been solved. It took skill and going beyond the call of their responsibility, at some risk of being wrong, to save the day. Having strong employees who care enough to question and propose solutions makes a difference to me.
Paul Heidemann continues to go above and beyond the call of duty to maintain Media Production's work order database. Because of his commitment to ensure its smooth operation, we are able to provide timely invoices and track data for assessment/efficiency reports. Thank you, Paul, for your dedication to Ferris.
I would like to nominate Jodi Shepherd to receive a Pat-on-the-Back award. I think she goes beyond what is required and offers an excellent and customized presentation to students to help them learn how to use library databases for specific classes. I found her presentations to my classes to be particularly pertinent and helpful.
Scott Claerhout has spent several hours troubleshooting my computer for remote access. He's even called me from home on two separate occasions. This goes above and beyond customer service.
I would like to nominate Lynn Lewis for a Pat-On-The-Back award. Lynn worked hard to find a buyer for the Ferris mainframe that was recently decommissioned. He spent time digging up documentation on the original system specifications and shopped around to find a company that would not just take the old equipment, but paid money for it, too! It is good to know that the mainframe will be utilized elsewhere and not just sitting in a landfill. Thanks, Lynn!
Rick Fountain, a recently hired FSU electrician, has solved some of the lighting problems that have plagued FLITE for years. Thank you, Rick, for providing the students with dimming lights in the distance learning room and for eliminating flickering lights in the instructional studios.
I would like to nominate Jason Daday for the Pat-On-The-Back Award. He is ALWAYS willing to go the extra mile when needed. He has a great attitude and is very dedicated. I really enjoy working with Jason and want to thank him for all that he does.
November 2007, Nominator's Comments:
FLITE Access Services student assistant Brandy Axford has made her outstanding contributions to the library services since she was hired three years ago. Brandy is a very responsible, organized, diligent and self-motivated young adult. She understands the need of our patrons and always strives to provide the best possible services to them. Her inner qualities, reflected in her work, are valued by the members of our work team. Brandy is a true asset to the Access Services!
Brian Kelley is a first year Hall Director at Ferris and has been assisting in promoting advocacy and understanding of the LGBTQA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Ally) population. Brian has assisted with promoting understanding and advocacy by encouraging and assisting with the planning of a weeks worth of activities for National Coming Out Day. One of these activities was creating a question and answer panel that was called the "Full Spectrum". This Q & A session brought about 15 people across campus to ask any questions they may have regarding this diverse community. Brian has also assumed the responsibility of Advisor and supporter for the DSAGA group here on campus.
Brian has been a mentor and a role model for students going through the process of coming out as well as advocating for more ally support and understanding across campus.
I would like to nominate Michelle Allen, Honors Program Support Staff, for a Pat on the Back Award. Michelle was moved from her previous office of two years to a new office location across campus. She wholeheartedly took on the challenge with grace and style. Her work ethic and speed constantly amaze us. Good job Michelle!
I would like to nominate Shawnee Griffin. She always goes above and beyond. She sees something that needs to be done in a building, does it, and never seeks any recognition for it.
Dawn Schavey and Ligia Encarnacion Reason: FSU hero's assist lost child.
On Wednesday, October 3rd, a young girl entered the FSU Grand Rapids office where Ligia Encarnacion was manning our front desk. The girl began sobbing hysterically when Ligia asked if she could help her. Ligia got a chair and placed it near her, on the "working" side of the desk, had the young girl sit down and attempted to understand and help. The young lady was eleven years old and lost. She was supposed to walk from her school to her mother's office to study before riding home with mom. She knew she wasn't supposed to talk to strangers, she knew she was hopelessly lost, and she knew she needed help. Ligia had her sit still and went to get the Student Services Supervisor, Dawn Schavey. Dawn was very patient and kind with our young friend. She was finally able to get the name of her mother's office and found out that the young lady did have her mother's cell phone number with her in her school bag. Dawn called Loren's mother, explained what had happened, got permission for Loren to ride to the office with another staff. Ultimately Ligia's kindness and quick thinking along with Dawn's patient, calm, motherly questions "saved the day" for both Loren and her mother!
I would like to commend the following University Staff members for their talent, dedication, and assistance with the 2007 Michigan Construction Hall of Fame: Tony Albachten, Bill Bitzinger, Shohreh Ferdowsi, Ted Halm, Michelle Herron, Kent Kacheterian, Leah Nixon, Richard Piippo, Susan Starkey, Donna Smith, Shari Wessels, Alan Williams, and Stan Vallier and dining staff members Brenna Kelley, Muffy Bryant, Margo Berke, Sarah Youngs, Angela McCane, Amelia Nelson, Marlene Ulrich, Antony Williams, Shandolyn Lewis, Jeff Perkowski, Tracey McKinney, Tyler Azevedo, Matt Sweeney, Ashley Constentine, Jay Baker, Sonya Arquette,Jaqueliine Carmoney, April Carter, Mandy Blondia, Jess Moran, Gary Wendlowsky, Vince McCartney, Jared Love, Josie Eagle, Jeff Horrigan, and Mark Terwilleger. Every one was instrumental in pulling this event together for this year's Distinguished Constructor's to enjoy! Thank you!
We'd like to nominate John Bush and Terry Dawson, custodians in the VFS building, for their great work in getting our laboratories ready for our recent accreditation site visit. Our labs are in use from 9AM through 8PM every day, so it's hard for them to get in even to empty the wastebaskets. But they took several days to clean our sinks, polish our floors, and make the place look great. We really appreciate their work
I would like to nominate Dr. Robert Friar for a Pat-on-the-Back Award. He was gracious enough to make himself available this fall for five presentations of "Sex and the College Student" for the first-year seminar (FSUS) courses. Dr. Friar always receives favorable reviews for his presentations - most sessions are standing room only. Many students indicated that they weren't required to attend but had heard "good things" about Dr. Friar's presentations and wanted to check it out for themselves! Kudos to Dr. Friar!
I would like to nominate Dean Vanostenburg for a pat on the back award. Dean handled a situation that could have turned very serious in an expedient manner. After calling 911 and assessing the situation he extinguished a fire in a trash can that was located in a chemical storage area thus elimating the immediate danger of a possible chemical fire.
I would like to nominate Judy Becker for a Pat On The Back Award. She is one of the most dedicated co-worker I've everworked with. She is very conscientous, helpful and almost always knows the answer to any question anyone may have. She's a joy to work with! Thank you.
October 2007, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to nominate Julie Eikey, secretary for the Northern region Office in Traverse City for the Pat on the back award. Julie goes above and beyond her job description to assist the students and faculty of the Northern Region. She is described as the "go to person" in our office for complicated student issues. Everyday and every way, Julie makes our office a great place to work. I think the increase in our student numbers is further evidence of her customer service excellence. Thanks, Julie. Way to go!!!
I would like to give Brian Kurisky of the Housing Office a pat on the back for his work in organizing the "Bulldogs In Action" move in helpers program. In Brian's third year coordinating the program there were 384 students who provided over 2400 volunteer hours helping new and returning students move in to their residence halls. This was a 57% increase in number of volunteers over last year and volunteers provided twice as many total volunteer hours. This program took a tremendous amount of time coordinating, training and implementing to be the great success it was. Way to go Brian!
I would like to nominate Mark DeKoster of the automotive department for a pat on the back award. Mark spent much of the summer performing technician training for a major automotive manufacturer. Mark has shared some of his vast wealth of knowledge with me to pass on to my students. I think it is great to have a colleague work hard to stay up to speed in our highly technical and dynamic industry. It is even better when they are willing to share with other members of the team to give our Ferris students the best education possible.
I would like to nominate Julie Modene, Marketing/Stock Room Coordinator, Department of Dining Services for a well deserved Pat-On-The-Back. Julie is blessed with many gifts which benefit the Ferris community. She is personable, intelligent, and a diligent team member. She represents Ferris with pride and dignity, making friends for Ferris around the country. One of Julie's most endearing qualities is the ability to be blind sided with an issue, maintain her composure, and offer creative solutions with a positive attitude. We appreciate you Julie!
Kudos to the Records Room Calendar Staff - Cindy Adolf, Jane Hardybala, Jeannine Martine, Bridget Olson and Associate Director of Admissions and Records Jo Gerst - for coordinating the thousands of details that go into the hundreds of classes that are magically transformed into our semester schedules. Errors, beware - you cannot escape these Divas of Diligence, these Paragons of Precision, these Buffers to Banner! It's their unwavering attention to detail that assures that students get the right amount of class time, that faculty get to the right classrooms and that we staff will get through yet one more semester. We appreciate their patience, good humor and patience. (Did we say patience?) Thanks a million.
I would like to nominate Vicky Deur for a pat-on-the-back award. She made sure that every FerrisConnect class that went online this Fall semester was integrated with Banner and did all of the setup for the cross listed classes which saved several faculty members many hours worth of work. She worked over the weekend to make sure there was a smooth start to the semester. Ferris State University is very lucky to have such a dedicated employee.
I would like to nominate Terry Pierson and Tom Lokers from Physical Plant for a giant pat on the back. When a student worker accidentally dropped a set of keys into an elevator shaft, these two dropped what they were doing, came over, and were able to retrieve the keys. They were efficient, courteous and really saved the day!
I would like to nominate Mike Hughes and Teresa Havens of the Physical Plant and Rob Adams of Public Safety for their help this past weekend in assisting me with an issue. They all went above and beyond what is normally asked of us in our day to day duties and they did so with a gracious attitude. Thank you so much.
I would like to thank Candice Moore from the West Campus Community Center. She offered her help during the International Potluck. She was a warm smiling face for, not only the international students, but also the community members and faculty who attended the event. The International Student Advisor's Office would like to give her a pat on the back and make sure that she gets recognition for her efforts. Thank you.
I would like to nominate Mary Kay MacIver for the Pat-On-The-Back Award. Her communication skills were awesome during the department upgrade to Office 2007. She worked together with computer support to ensure the automated installation was communicated out to the department and completed as scheduled. She is truly a team player!
I would like to nominate Sandy Holley, Paula Walter, Claudia Johnson and Jim McIntyre for a Pat-on-the-back award. These wonderful, hardworking people have helped me make the transition to my new job a lot easier and I wanted to let them know that they are awesome and they are appreciated. You Rock!!!!
Congratulations to -
September 2007, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to nominate both Scott Thede and Jennifer Thede for a Pat on the Back. They have worked very hard in the last nine months assisting me in talks with Dell regarding some troublesome computers in the College of Technology. Recently we were able to see fruits of much labor, thanks in no small part to their continued efforts. Your work is very much appreciated.....Thank You!!
I want to nominate Lori Deforest for a Pat on the Back. Lori assists me in keeping up with loan certifications and this time of the year that's a challenge. Sometimes Lori gets very little notice when requested to help out but still she comes through and does a great job, quite often she volunteers her time by letting us know she has an hour that she can use to help us out. Since her area down at Kendall is really busy this time of year, like ours is, she keeps us in mind if she has a minute to spare.
I would like to nominate Steve Stellard for a Pat on the Back award. He went out of his usual domain to help our department when we needed it. He went up and beyond to help us. I really appreciate his knowledge and willingness to help. Thank you Steve for a wonderful and well done job.
The ATS would like to thank Annette Erler and Larrey Eberts of the Physical Plant. On 8/2/07 we had a shipment of 200 boxes delivered to Heavy Equipment Center. Annette assisted by contacting Larrey to come over and drive the Hi-Low to help us unload computer boxes. Also, a Pat-on-the Back should go out to Glenn Zobel for his assistance earlier in July in our panic to drive the Boom and load disposal equipment for us. The folks at the Physical Plant are always pleasant and helpful and we really appreciate their efforts. There should just be a standing paragraph each and every month in the Pat-on-the Back section to include these folks; they are always there to help. The ATS Inventory would like to extend a Pat-on-the Back to Chris Laczek and Adam Shirey for all their assistance in moving network switches to our storage location. Your help is greatly appreciated – keep up the good work.
I believe that Stan Vallier deserves a huge pat on the back. He does an excellent job making sure catered events go smoothly. He has a smile and a kind word to share with everyone. His pleasant demeanor makes both students and staff feel welcome here at Ferris. Thank you Stan!
Linda Ferguson for her commitment an making Granger Center look outstanding for the start of the school year. Great job Linda.
Jeff Tellkamp for his abilities for stepping up to the plate when you need him the most and has gone above his job responsibilities when we need it the most, always willing to jump in and give a hand
Denise Sims - We appreciate all you do for our building. When school started all the areas looked terrific. Thank you for taking the extra effort in making our building look so wonderful.
Jeff Warner - We appreciate all the help you gave us in getting our building ready for school to start. Thank you for all of your help and for always being so willing to help.
August 2007, Nominator's Comments:
The orientation Leaders, Orientation Coordinators, Rankin Center Staff, William's Auditorium Staff, Educational Counselors, and the Timme Orientation Team all deserve a Pat on the Back Award for being filled with school spirit and knowledge about Ferris and the community, as well as being service oriented to new students, their families, and friends. Our Orientation Program would not be successful without their leadership, charismatic attitudes, and their interest in sharing the Ferris experience with everyonel they encounter. The University appreciates all that they do!:-)
Debi Whitman, Sherry Hayes, Ashley Atteberry, Nancy Mettlach, Courtney Brock, Stevie DeLaney, Ebony Franklin, Andy Gallavan, Andrew Hall, Nakira Howard, Danielle Jackson, Beth Mason, Ryan Masters, Sara McPherson, Koren Moore, Sam Solinski, Stephanie Techlin, Kale Tissue, Joe Vance, Demetrius Wallace, Kevin Walsh, Nicole Wheelock, Jasmin Williams, Nancy Potter, Mark Schuelke, Mike Cairns, Shari Chamberlain, Tyrone Collins, Troy Tissue, Elise Blacklaw, Sarah Jennings, Rebecca Kowalkowski, Rick Kowalkowski, Mary Cline, Mary Steeno, Shelly VandePanne, Vordyn Nelson.
I would like to nominate Steven Jewett for a Pat on the back. He spent an entire day helping inventory prepare their disposal equipment. Steven often goes the extra mile to help people.
Nancy Sage at the Birkam Health Center goes over-and-above to assist the Counseling Center. Without being asked, she will offer to help out. She always displays a caring and pleasant attitude to students and staff. Any contact with her is a delight.
We would like to nominate: September Howat, who works at Ferris Grand Rapids.
She works at the front desk and is our "Girl Friday". There isn't anything that September can't do. She is always warm, attentive, and has a smile for everyone who enters the office. If she doesn't know an answer, which is rare, she will find out. She is never impatient and always kind. She makes the person on the other side of the desk feel she has time just for them and that they are the most important person in the world. While we have always appreciated September and the work she does, it came to our attention, today especially, when a student brought the whole office donuts to thank September for all of the times she has been treated well and had her questions answered. September is not even here today...she is at a conference and so missed out hearing all of the good things she has done for this student. The young lady expounded on customer service and how it seems to be lacking everywhere but here, due to September. Please give September a special pat on the back. Thank you!
Terri Aldrich of I.S.and T. deserves a Pat on the Back for pulling together all the resources on short notice and programming a Tuition Calculator for the Ferris Web site.
I would like to nominate Bruce Gilchrist for a Pat on the Back Award. He automated the orientation check in process (the famous blue sheet for those of you who are familiar with Orientation). This change helped to improve the check in process for all of our Orientation attendees and their families--and made their impression of Ferris just that much better. He worked a lot of extra time to make this process SO much faster--we all love it!
I would like to nominate Leroy Wright, Ashley Atteberry, Sherry Hayes, and Debi Whitman for a Pat-On-The-Back Award. Each of these dedicated Student Affairs employees work tirelessly to ensure that our new students (and their parents) have a positive and productive Summer Orientation experience. They have done an outstanding job of planning and implementing our highly successful Summer Orientation program. Nancy Mettlach also deserves a Pat-On-The-Back award for all of her valuable help as well.
Jo Gerst, Charlotte Tetsworth, Julie Cole, Judy Becker, Joan Williams, Linda Hayes, Leigh Ann Theunick and Donna Myers also deserve a Pat-On-The-Back Award for the fantastic job they do at Summer Orientation Check-In. Every morning they cheerfully greet students/parents and patiently answer a myriad of questions. Admissions Officers Troy Tissue, Elise Blacklaw, Luzia Tartari, Nancy Potter, Tyrone Collins, Sarah Jennings, Angie Mishler and Maria Knirk also do a great job of helping Orientation students and their families. Craig Westman and Dave Engels and the entire Enrollment Services and Business Office teams do a tremendous job of assisting new students and their families in countless ways during Summer Orientation. All of these loyal employees are a credit to Ferris State University.
July 2007, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to thank Krista Wilcox, Steve Miller and Kris Rasmussen for their extra efforts for spending their evening and early hours in the morning on Thursday and Friday working with Docushare and getting the data off a failing hard drive. They all worked until 3:00 in the morning in order to save valuable data on failing hard drives so that critical data could be saved and maintained. Thank you.
I would like to nominate Bill Potter for a Pat on the Back award. During the Diversity Day portion of Summer University, Dr. Potter, on very short notice, agreed to take Dr. Hale, the keynote speaker, to visit the Jim Crow Museum--and to drive the Hales to their hotel after the tour. In addition, he did this before the session that he helped facilitate. Thank you, Bill.
During Summer University 2007, Ed and Bonnie Dorman volunteered to return Dr. Frank Hale and his wife Mignon to the airport to catch a flight shortly after his final keynote presentation. Because of the timing, they literally "had the motor running" to get to the airport on time.
Mike Cairns deserves a pat on the back for his warmth and kindness towards incoming students and their families. During the Orientation process he is a portrait of welcoming conviviality. He puts parents, students and co-workers at ease, and relaxes them with his humorous spirit. We need more Mikes around here to keep our spirits high.
Matt Eickhoff's creativity, sense of fun, attention to detail and commitment to projects here at Ferris is legendary. His distinctive blend of wit and wisdom enhances all of our collective lives.
We would like to put a pat on the back in for John Monahan. When ever we call, if he can't get us on-line over the phone he is always willing to come out and get our computers up and running. John we appreciate all that you do for us. It is wonderful that you take good care of your customers. Keep up the good work John.
I would like to nominate Dr. Virginia Hines for this award. She teaches in the School of Education in Big Rapids, and spent several mornings at FSU-GR to train faculty in Livetext Software. This is important because it enables faculty to help students create web based portfolios. I appreciate the time she took to train us and to do it well!
Several weeks ago I was given the task of coordinating the mail center while a search took place to replace the open coordinator position. I was unfamiliar with the inter-workings of the campus mail center. The job is a difficult one and involves a plethora of rules and regulations. To assist in all mail center functions, the mail center employs several students. The four students who are working this summer have been spectacular. I have worked with dozens of students over the years, and this is as fine a group of students as I have ever had the pleasure to work with. I wish to thank each one of these students and I enthusiastically recommend the following people for a pat-on-the-back award; Danielle Erler, Lindsey Ramsey, Tiffany Hunt and Jesi Snavely.
June 2007, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to nominate Paul Quick, Manager of Bus. Operations at CSS 101T for taking the time to resolve a student's problem by personally producing and sending the document they required. This act ensured that a frustrated, upset student would continue to take FSU classes at a UCEL campus. He also took the time to teach me how to access the information on Banner; this allows me to provide better service to our students in the future.
I would like to nominate Lisa Roach for a pat-on-the-back award. She has demonstrated relentless commitment to her job by going above and beyond to make sure that things run more smoothly in our clinic. She in always friendly and willing to help when problems arise--often staying late to find charts or making calls to find information. She is a joy to work with.
The ATS sends a “Huge” pat-on-the-back and thank you to the FSU carpenters, painters, electricians, movers, and administrative staff for all your help and assistance in preparing Alumni 114 for occupancy. We appreciate all of you: Annette Erler, Kim Kleeves, Matt Stanke, Mark Eichenberg, Bill Benedict, Tim Bowman, Tom Lokers, Chris Wright, Glen Zobel, Jeff Boochard, Charlyn Davis, Brian Estes, Walt Smith, Allen Tetsworth, Richard Spedowske, Dale Versluis, and anyone else that I missed by name. Your cooperation in getting the job done is demonstrated daily.
The University Center for Extended Learning would like to give a Pat-On-The Back award to the many people who were involved in the painting and new carpeting in our offices in the Alumni Building. There were many people who were involved in this project, including Matt Stanke, Karen Simmon, Mark Eichenberg, the painting crew, the moving crew, the carpenters, the electricians, the telephone crew, Team Beta computer support staff, custodians, and many others that we may be missing (but you know who you are). We appreciate everyone that helped complete this project in such a timely and professional manner. We were very impressed with the workers and their completed project. Thank you for all your hard work!
Chuck Rathbun takes calls every day in the TAC (Technology Assistance Center). I have been very pleased to work with him over the last month or two as he has noticed a pattern in calls and worked with me to resolve them. He used his "big-picture" thinking and problem-solving skills to figure out why some applicants were not getting their login IDs created. Chuck's work with Bruce Gilchrist and Mike Miklusicak helped identify those missing records and get IDs created for them. Thanks, too, Bruce, for your untiring work with the Banner script to catch all these people!
On Saturday, May 5th, Sergeant Timothy Jacobs was directing traffic directly in front of Ewigleben Sports Complex where vehicles are instructed through to a designated drop off area past the entrance. As I was entering the complex to attend the 9:00 a.m. commencement ceremony, I witnessed a vehicle stop directly in front of the entrance and an elderly couple started to exit the car. Sergeant Jacobs took immediate notice of the need for an exception to the rule and quickly moved around the car and assisted the elderly couple from the vehicle and safely onto the sidewalk. He then promptly resumed his duty of swiftly and smoothly directing traffic into the parking area. I was so pleased to see that in a situation where this enforcement officer could have reprimanded the driver for unloading in an undesignated area, Sergeant Jacobs instead promoted the courteous and service-oriented attitude that makes Ferris such an outstanding institution. His thoughtful actions only added to the joyous experience for this graduate's family. I have frequently witnessed Sergeant Jacobs' superior work ethic and friendly demeanor on campus. He is a pleasure to work with and I would like to see Sergeant Jacobs receive a much deserved Pat-on-the-Back award for making all of Ferris proud of our department of public safety.
Paul Peoples has been working with the Housing and Business Office for a few months to recreate a process in Banner to batch enter housing deposit refunds rather than manually entering them one by one. The process and the 'tweak' he has done to my report has literally saved me (and I am not kidding!!) DAYS (I'd say 4-5 days) of keyboard entry, as well as having to look up information on each and every student before I do the check out. Actually (even if it hurts to say this) what Paul has done with Banner was WAY better than what we had with SIS.
I would like to give a Pat on the Back award to Kathy Fisher of Enrollment Services. We ask . . . we get. We ask again . . . we get again. She is easy to work with; can't ruffle her feathers; very accommodating and good at troubleshooting. Thanks Kathy . . . you make our life easier at FSU!
I would like to give Heather Youngs, Coordinator of Scholarship Programs, a big Pat on the Back award. She always answers email and/or phone calls. She is really helpful if you have questions about scholarships. She is very easy to work with. Thanks, Heather, for being so wonderful to work with . . . even if it is just by email! I appreciate that!
Leigh Theunick deserves a Pat on the Back award for being so knowledgeable about transfer applicants and the entire process of being admitted to FSU. Our office has relied on her patience and knowledge to help us get up to speed. We appreciate how she always answers email and phone messages in one day! Thanks, Leigh. We do appreciate you!
I would like to nominate Lou Ann Kirkpatrick for a Pat on the Back Award. She always goes over, above and beyond in her job. She welcomes all who comes into the Admissions area with kindness and professionalism! Her knowledge of Admissions and Ferris is such a great asset to her position as she helps students, future students and parents with all types of inquiries. She is a true "dedicated" employee of Ferris and an "awesome" asset to the Admissions/Records Department.
Shelly VandePanne always does whatever she can to enhance the student's experience at FSU to assure it is a good one. She also maintains a pleasant and positive attitude spiced with a sense of humor and humility which serves as a role model for co-workers and students. She is AWESOME!!
May 2007, Nominator's Comments:
Marlene O'Hara- who is the "mother" to all CJ students, who drops everything to meet with a student, and who always provides humor and countless goodies to our office. The relationships she builds with her students is reflective in the many phone calls she receives from graduates that not only want to catch her up on what they have been doing but most importantly they want to check in to see how she is doing.
John Backstrom- for providing students, prospective students and the office with true commitment and dedication to the advising role. He takes advising one step further then most, by challenging, questioning, and probing so that students leave his office empowered to think, research and impact their own future.
Dave Zobeck- takes so much time to put his lessons in his own humorous way, which allows his students to connect to their learning. When he leaves us in May we will truly be at a loss, as we are not only losing a great faculty member but also the person whose humor, as strange and odd as it may be, makes us find a time in our day to laugh and enjoy life.
Paula Koning- for all the follow up she does for her students and prospective students; making sure they are not lost in the system. She too will be a loss to our office. We wish her the best as she heads south.
Ward Makielski- for his endless passion in building such an amazing program as Digital Animation and Game Design. His work to develop, promote and retain students within your program is admirable.
Also, please nominate all other advisors, Joe Wist, Rich Goosen, David Baker, Marty Lier, Andy Purvis, Ed Brayton, Clyde Hardman, Bill Smith, Mark Rusco, Cheri Durst and Amy Kavanaugh for their hard work.
I would like to nominate Al Tetsworth for doing such a great job in painting the lockers at the Ice Arena. We just wanted you to know that we appreciated it. It makes the locker room look so much better. Great job AL!
Carla Erlewine has taken an extremely difficult summer awarding project and put together a process to get students awarded summer financial aid in the new Banner system. Unless you work in financial aid, you can not imagine what an undertaking summer awarding has been. Carla has managed to get a process in place and train an entire staff. She has done all of this with an amazing attitude and a team spirit, not to mention she is just a great co-worker and all around good person.
I would like to nominate Shirryl Sanger and Robert Kleeves for all of their efforts in finding a student's final exam. The exam was accidentally thrown away. These two dedicated individuals were helpful beyond what can be imagined. They had to look in the dumpster to find it, but find it they did. One student had a happy ending to the semester! Thank you both for your tenacity and hard work in looking for this important exam. Great job Shirryl and Rob.
I would like to nominate Charlie Carpenter for being a team player and helping out in Business Services. Any time there is a demonstrated need, he is always willing to go the extra mile. He has been very flexible throughout the years and has often been the University's emergency back up plan. Thanks Charlie for once again being there to ensure success!!!!!
Thank you to Jason DaDay, Senior Recruiting Officer. The quality of the programming that he coordinated and facilitated for our 50 high school juniors was done with expertise and care. Many positive comments were received from our enthusiastic group as they visited various academic and activity areas. Thank you, also, to Dave Eisler who mingled with our students during the lunch hour and gave a little "pep talk" on the steps of the Rankin Center afterward. Our students visit many university campuses and they were very impressed that our President would take so much of his personal time to introduce himself to them and encourage them to further their education. It was a great day for our students thanks to these two gentlemen!
I would like to nominate Terry Dawson for a pat on the back award for the great job he does in his area. When I ask him to do something out of the ordinary he is always willing to help in any way he can. Thanks Terry for keeping our building looking so good. Great job!
I would like to nominate Darla Szpiech for a pat on the back award. For all she does in ASC, Starr and Science. We appreciated all your hard work. You have a great attitude and a great pride about your work. We enjoy having you working in our buildings. Keep up the great work!
April 2007, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to nominate Bonnie DePew and Sherry Hickman from the Payroll Office for the Pat on the Back Award. Over many years, these two have never failed to offer quick, knowledgeable answers to any question 'thrown' at them! They have always been VERY pleasant in assisting in any questions I have ever had, and I certainly appreciate them! Maybe they've been nominated before, but just in case, I think they are very deserving ALL the time. Thank you.
I want to nominate 2 carpenters, Ron Patterson and Randy Wheeler, for all the creative and hard work they do in the Granger Building. They have completed numerous projects for the HVACR labs, some on very short notice. These projects include making picture frames, equipment stands, and hanging over 100 pictures and company signs and banners throughout the building. We have a good looking building because of their hard work.
I would like to nominate the following Tot's Place employees for the pat-on-the-back award: Deborah Roberts, Assistant Manager/Teacher, Diane Parrish, Teacher, Susan Fedewa, Teacher, Sandra Salis, Wrap-Around Teacher, Kristen Ritter, student, and Jessica Hughes, FSU student intern. During the confusion on March 1st when the University closed at 11:00 am, these six employees went the extra mile to assist in the operation of the center. I am truly grateful for their dedication, positive attitude and willingness to do what was needed to provide services on this stressful day.
I would like to nominate Ferris' COT Rube Goldberg Machine Team, consisting of students Tom Sybrandy, James Travis III, Mike Dunakin and Matt Tomaszewski, won the National Championship at the Rube Goldberg Machine competition, held at Purdue University, Saturday, March 31. The team won 1st place over Purdue University, University of Texas at Austin, Texas A & M, Penn State University, University of Cincinnati, Hoffstra University, and Washington State Community College. In doing so, the team also set a new World Record for the number of steps in a machine in competition at 345, besting the record held by Purdue at 215. The machine ran in 1 minute and 44 seconds. The record is being submitted to Guinness World Records.
I would like to nominate the Ferris Bus Drivers for a pat on the back award. David Erskin, Marilyn Erskin, Allen Hope, Wendy Starks, Jim E. Lindsey and Tom Proefrock have done an outstanding job in terrible weather conditions. They take safety very seriously and always provide cheerful service. They are very dedicated employees and do a great job. Hats off to all of them.
I would like to recognize Calla Dean and Will Duran for their help in getting me connected to the internet, and then with a problem I was having with my connection. They were both very patient, and made sure I was back up and running before turning me loose. On the bonus side, Will took the time to educate me on internet connections. Thanks!
I would like to nominate Dan Grit in the Physical Plant for a Pat-on-the-Back Award. Dan recently attended the University's legislative luncheon. When we arrived it was pretty clear that we could use some additional help readying the room for our legislators and other visitors. Without being asked Dan pitched in and helped out with the unloading of the materials from the bus and the set-up of the room. He didn't have to do any of that but he saw a need and filled it. Dan could have joined others on a visit to the Capital and while that would have been more pleasurable and lots less work, he stayed behind and helped. His help was much appreciated. In my eyes, he demonstrated what happens every day on campus when we work together.
I would like to nominate Mike Becker a Custodian at Rankin Center. If you need to see a smile for the day, go see Mike. He always has one. He looks like the happiest employed person I have ever seen. Great smile Mike! Keep passing that on! It's contagious.
Cindy Horn is full of life, vitality, warmth and IDEAS! She knows how to bring people together to get a job done and her commitment to Ferris is legendary.
Jody Gardei leads by example. Her unflappable demeanor, openness to new ideas, willingness to go the extra mile and warm spirit make working with her a pleasure.
Helen Woodman is known for her wit, creativity and dedication to her students. She is appreciated because she gets them to do what they had previously deemed impossible.
A big THANK YOU to FLITE Public Services staff members Christine Jacobs and Lyle Mourer, Jr., student assistants Stacy Force, Ryan Paniwozik, Jay Briggs, Matthew Gates, and Codie Lakin, and ATS technicians Margo Higgins and Kriss Tessin. They went "above and beyond" and stayed to staff FLITE's public service desks during the March 1st "snow day," allowing the library to remain open until 5:00 p.m. Despite the dreadful weather conditions, 672 people came into FLITE that day.
I want to nominate the grounds crew and other Physical Plant Trades employees, who helped with all the snow problems that we had right before spring break. The crew included Gerald Battle, Jim White, Steve Huss, Rich Colby, Al Smith, Dan Grit, Gordy Erler, Dale Olson, John Bishop, Chuck Zimmerman, Brad King, Lionel Mackenzie, Jim Spedowske, along with Electricians Tom Lokers, Chris Wright, Painter Richard Spedowske, Plumber Jack Enos, Carpenter Jim Brown and Custodian Floyd Johansen. Also, Grounds Supervisor Will Gasper, for attention given to calls for assistance and sending his crew to go help where needed. Also, Annette Erler for doing such a great job answering the phones and getting help directed where needed. As always, thanks to all of you for taking the time to make life less frustrating for our campus community. A multitude of Spring Break experiences started on the right foot due to the courtesy and attention that you displayed. Also thanks to the Supervisors (Richard Vanhorn, Walt Smith, Darell Reichow, Tom Clement) for sharing their trades workers in a time of need. Thanks to all of you.
March 2007, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to nominate three students who are assets to the Physical Plant Custodial Department in the Allied Health Building. Ashton Bell, Jim Hansen, and Lance Davis. These students are hard working, thorough, easy to talk to, considerate, and worthy of a 'Pat on the Back."
A Pat on the Back goes to Amy Otteson for her attention to detail, desire to do well and her conscientious spirit.
Kristen Salomonson deserves recognition for her inclusive style of leadership, great sense of humor and ability to get a group to blend, be cohesive and accomplish what they set out to do.
Krishnakali Majumdar is a professor that pushes the boundaries, helps her students to do the same, and inspires them to step out of the tiny box they never even knew they were in.
For a "pat - on - the - back" award, I offer for nomination, Deb Savides. She is fairly new in the payroll office, but she has made a positive impression on me. She answers the phone in such a way that you can almost see her smiling face. I had some questions about my check and she was very helpful in assisting me, I really appreciated her help and she is a pleasure to deal with. Great job Deb Thank you!!!!!!
I would like to nominate Tyrone Collins for the Pat on the Back Award. Tyrone always goes out of his way for our students, both current and future. He is also always there to support his co-workers and offer assistance to anyone he can. He is the epitome of class and an outstanding representation of how people should treat one another.
I would like to nominate the HVAC crew for all of their work and the extra effort expended toward maintaining comfort levels in buildings campus wide. The extended run of extreme cold weather created challenges for the department, but they rose to and met the challenge admirably because "this is what we do!" Thanks and congratulations for the effort go to Mike Depew, Mike Toles, Greg Kehr, Ed Green, Eli Williams, Tim Pullen, Bill Conrad, Mark Rozier, Bill Ruppel, Scott Ruiter and their supervisor John Pasquantonio. Thanks also to Mike Troupe for his assistance.
I would like to nominate Crystal Joslin, Humanities support staff, for a Pat on the Back. There was a room usage problem created by a large class size in the Swan building, Crystal was kind enough to move a history class booked in Swan to another room. Without her help, I would have spent a considerable amount of time trying to find a room large enough to accommodate the class.
Linda Golden and Ann Rescoe have been holding monthly "town hall meetings" for P-card. This has been a terrific way to share information and reach a lot of people about concerns and ideas. Their dedication to making the campus p-card program easier to use and understandable to all persons is to be commended. Thanks for keeping everyone in the loop and making educating users a high priority.
Kevin Jackson, custodial supervisor, came into work on a Sunday evening to assist our photographers with some under water photography in the UREC pool. We needed to gain access to the rooms beneath the pool in order to shoot some scuba diving video, and Kevin made a special effort to contact us and say he'd be available to help. He met us at the Rec Center at 7 p.m. and gave us the access we needed. Also, hats off to Dale Schoner, of the custodial staff, for contacting Kevin and setting up the video shoot from the beginning.
The ATS Staff would like to give a “BIG THANK YOU” and a “JOB WELL DONE” to Jody Gardei, Curtis Earl, and their students: Brad Bammert, Shanaria Howell, Trevor Stokes, James Swearingen, Brent Johnson and Josh Murray for all their hard work and planning for the Honors Invitational last Saturday. They are all deserving to be nominated for the Pat-On-The-Back Award. With their dedication to detail and planning, the event was very successful.
Another nomination goes out to Lee Weaver and Chris Pommerenke for the Pat-On-The-Back Award for their work on the Enhancing Academic Classroom Technology Project to facilitate contacting computer support personnel. Their willingness to research and tackle a new project is much respected and appreciated. Thank you for a great job!
What would we do without Ben Chambers? He took on this project and has done a superb job of testing and teaching the “ins and outs” of this software package. You are so deserving of the Pat-On-The-Back Award. Thank you Ben, for your hard work and initiative.
A Pat-On-The-Back Award goes out to all the ATS staff: Ben Chambers, Scott Claerhout, Curtis Earl, Jody Gardei, Michael Johnson, Rosemary Kailing, Brent Kundinger, Shawn Lagasse, John Monahan, Shawn O’Grady, Chris Pommerenke, Randy Shanks, Joe Strohkirch, Kriss Tessin, Scott Thede, Ken Verrill, and Lee Weaver, it is a pleasure to work with each and every one of you.
I would like to nominate all of these people in the COEHS Academic Affairs Office for the exceptional efficiency and effectiveness with which they deal with students and staff. They bring a calm, positive atmosphere to the jobs they do and the people with whom they deal. By the same token, they bring a friendly and positive collaboration to the working relationship they have with one another. They continually go out of their way to help students because they care about them. They are an excellent, efficient and positive TEAM: Terry Langan, Mary Cline, Michelle Richardson, Billie Jo Duddles.
I wish to offer my nomination for a "Pat-on-the-Back" award to several people. Undoubtedly, recognition for a job well done is very nice but this goes much further. The efforts made here go well beyond the everyday trials and tribulations of our daily work routine. When a fellow employee was going through a most difficult time in their personal life these fine people, not only stepped up and offered their assistance, but did so with the kindest of intentions. It is with my best wishes and heartfelt gratitude that I offer for nomination, Charlie Carpenter, Kimberly Kleeves, Annette Erler, Fonda Kuzee, Teresa Havens, Pepper Bonnett, Sheryl Cass, Glenn Zobel, John Bush, Mike Kelly, Greg Kehr, Kevin Jackson, Gary Gawne, Karen Simmon, Shanee Ramsey and Mike Hughes and thanks also, to both the AFSCME and the CT unions for all you did.
February 2007, Nominator's Comments:
I would like a Pat on the Back award to go to Calla Dean in Telecommunications. She never fails to act promptly on a problem to get it resolved as quickly as possible and always with a smile; one can "see" over the phone line. In all my years at Ferris, regardless of what office I was calling from, for whatever reason I was calling, she has always been a very pleasant person to work with to resolve problems or to answer whatever questions I had.
I would like to give thanks to all of the Technology Assistance Center staff with special thanks going to David Bowers, Todd Clemm, Chris Cunningham, Mel Danes, Adam Fortman, Mark Hunt, Jaime Gerow, Adam Keally, Mike Kehoe, Daniel Moellering, Josh Mullard, Brady Mulligan, Karie Saylor, Joe Viviano, Bob Horner, Tina Jensen, Gary Lutz, Susan Cherry, Rathbun Chuck, Phyllis Sherman, and Bruce Werner. Ferris's network suffered massive attacks and outages during the first week of the Spring semester and these guys were my eyes and ears throughout the entire ordeal. Their continual commitment to assisting Faculty, Staff, and Students exceeded even my wildest expectations. Their assistance was not just limited to fielding calls, Gary and Sue continually offered me their precious resources including time, man power, and anything else I needed every second of every minute. While I am not sure of the exact number of calls fielded by this fantastic department I do know that in one evening they had well over 900 calls. My estimates put them at over 2500 calls throughout the first week of classes, more than enough to tire the most determined soul. While we are still not in the clear, it is nice to know that I can depend upon this department to assist me in Ferris time of need. I would also like to nominate my co-worker Victor Empie who worked with me Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday around the clock with a total of about 11 hours of sleep. We worked side by side day and night to resolve the issues with the network. In total we each put in about 80 hours in 5 days with about half that being on Monday and Tuesday and alone.
I would like to nominate Charlie Carpenter for a Pat-on-the-Back award. He handled the sale of some used equipment by taking care of all the necessary details and posting it on eBay. He handled all the details for us including moving the equipment, taking pictures, creating the description, answering questions, and making arrangements for the buyer to pick it up. The final bid was way beyond our expectations. I am sure we would not have received as much without all of his extra effort on behalf of Hospitality Programs.
I would like to nominate Jenny Ososki, Medical Records, Michigan College of Optometry. I was denied a referral to a specialist my by insurance provider. I tried on several occasions to get an authorization, but was not successful. Jenny stepped up and took my case to the insurance company and succeeded in getting an authorization for me. Jenny will probably say that she was just doing her job, and technically, that may be true. The reason for the nomination is that she didn't take the easy way out. It would have been easy for her to say, sorry, I couldn't do it, and move on to the next thing in her in-basket. She didn't take the path of least resistance and just put in her 8 hours; she did her job to the best of her ability and made a positive impact on my life.
Karen Ottobre always goes out of her way to be helpful. Recently she facilitated finding a classroom for a special event that would have displaced a faculty member from the classroom. All went smoothly and she went out of her way to make sure every detail was arranged. I would like her to receive a pat-on-the-back.
January 2007, Nominator's Comments:
Michelle Allen, Honors Program support staff, gets the job done. Her warmth, creative touch, excellent telephone skills, flexibility and kindness towards students are all impressive. We are fortunate to have her in our midst.
Ted Halm is efficient, thorough, ahead of the curve and a Johnny-on-the-spot. His troubleshooting skills are appreciated, and his speedy response to problems is legendary.
What would we do without Penny Bouman? She is a woman for all seasons. Her humor, professionalism, willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty and courage to tackle the "new" are widely respected.
I would like to nominate John Randle for a Pat on the Back award. He has gone above the call of duty in finding work study dollars for employees in the Student Recreation Center. Without his efforts we would be anticipating a reduction in operational hours in the SRC.
I would like to nominate the following people for a Pat on the Back award Danny Addis, Diana Routley, Greg Vodry, Carmen Brown, Pam Marvel, Rachel Bradford, Scott Earle, Jim Moore, Brian Anderson, Shawnee Griffin, Floyd Johansen, Jeff Warner, Frank Mondrella, Dorothy Cline, and Dan Spedowske. For their great attitudes in helping with all the commencement cleaning at Convocation that needed to be done, job well done!
I would like to tell someone how happy I am with all the help I received from Chuck Rathbun in the FSU TAC department. Over the past two days, Chuck has offered endless assistance and information to me with getting me signed into the FSU network and assigned a password since I was somehow lost in the system upgrade. His upbeat and friendly manner only added to my positive experience with this university. Thanks again Chuck!
I want to acknowledge Jim A. Lindsey for a pat on the back for his ingenuity in creating security badges for the custodial crew. With little or no instruction he came up with a professional design that surpassed our expectations. Great Job on your ingenuity and design!
Recently we had problems with heating units at FLITE. To avoid serious operational problems, Mike Toles and Bill Ruppel made accurate assessments and quick decisions. The areas that these men had to work were cramped and the equipment they work with is heavy and awkward. In spite of the difficulties they did a great job. Job well done.
December 2006, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to nominate Deb Savides and Charlie Carpenter, please consider this a "Pat on the back" award event!! Just a quick note to you expressing my thanks for Deb Savides hastily agreeing to be a "Substitute" during our Career Center tour time. On short notice (thanks to Charlie for highly recommending her) she was able to put together documents and a verbal explanation of what goes on in Custodial Operations. I also received good comments from their instructor regarding her delivery of information. Seeing two people, Deb and Charlie sitting on the floor of Deb’s office filling file folders with information was a very gratifying scene. Time was of essence and Deb came through!!
Craig Westman always answers e-mails and phone calls, is upbeat and positive in spite of amazing challenges with Banner, and models professionalism and fairness. His can-do attitude and willingness to serve is an inspiration.
I would like to thank Lori Henderson, Data Security Administrator, for all of her hard work in coordinating and maintaining our data security. With so many names, passwords and roles it's a feat to keep all of our persons straight. She maintains all of these security roles in many software programs and MULTIPLE Banner instances. When called upon for a question or a change she's right on it and we can continue our work as needed. Thanks Lori your hard work, organization and dedication is very much appreciated.
Students from Technology Assistance Center -
Chad Ladensack, for months of hard work, innovation, willingness to work with others, and being an all around genius of web applications in the implementation of the new tech support web site. Steve Stellard for helping get content up and tweaking the design. Bianca Dannenberg and Katharine Webb, our interns from the winter, who put in long hours of research and design testing for the new site that gave us some great ideas for setting up the new web site, and other marketing ideas for computer support. Check out the results of their work at : http://www.ferris.edu/techsuppport
Staff:
Jim Cook, Kriss Rassmussen, Steve Miller, and Sidney Eaton, of IS and T Technical Services, and Ben Chambers, Joe Strohkirch, from IS and T Academic Technology Services, for helping us answer phones in the Technology Assistance Center at the start of school when the volume was - almost unbelievable -- 5000 calls from Aug 21 through August 31. They each jumped in and helped out the best they could, each offering their expertise in different systems.
I would like to nominate Annette Clarady and Jane Pedelty at the Copy Center for a Pat On The Back Award. Recently, I needed to update some pamphlets and a bookmark for the Counseling Center and couldn't find them anywhere on my computer. These two really came through for me. Since they kept the documents on their end, they simply emailed them to me so I could do the updates. That simple gesture saved me hours of work! Also, the entire Copy Center should be commended on their speedy turn around time on orders, even with their recent move.
I would like to nominate John Duman for a Pat-on-the back. I was hosting a conference at the West Campus Community Building on Monday. John had spent some time the week before getting my computer all set up. Then on Monday, John showed up to the community building to assist in the wireless set-up. While he was there my computer died. John generously gave me his laptop for the day and set it all up. The attendees were very appreciative to have wireless and I was so thankful to have the use of John's computer for the day so we could access Banner and do demos on all the different processes. He was great!
Recently we had problems with heating units at FLITE and Granger. To avoid serious operational problems, Tim Pullen and Eli Williams (at Granger) and Bill Conrad and Mark Rozier (at FLITE) made accurate assessments and quick decisions. The areas that these men had to work were cramped and the equipment they work with is heavy and awkward. In spite of the difficulties, all four men went above and beyond the scope of their normal daily work and saved the University time and money. Additional help was also received by Terry Pierson, the elevator mechanic, and Larrey Eberts and Glen Zobel who provided equipment, moving, and tools.
November 2006, Nominator's Comments:
I would like to thank Barb Renne for all of her work on the Pat-on-the-back awards, along with balancing her other duties. It is a highlight to see people we know nominated for a well job well done. Thank you Barb for starting and keeping this tradition going. It is wonderful that you have done this for all of us for so long. Thank you!!!!!
Chris Laczek, ATS Student Computer Technician for Team Sigma deserves a Pat On The Back for his efforts assisting a College of Technology Faculty member in need. Chris defined excellence as a Ferris Computer Technician by assisting the faculty member and efficiently solving an "out of the ordinary" problem. His efforts were appreciated by the faculty member so much that he has taken it upon himself to call both Team Sigma and the manager of ATS to point out how thankful he was for Chris's efforts. Thank you Chris for going above and beyond the normal call of duty to help a member of the Ferris community. Keep up the great work!!
I would like to nominate Beth Krueger for her excellent service as a HR Director.
She has been very helpful and supportive.
We have three work study students in our office that I can't image how we could function without. They are Tara Quigley, Rachel Wahr, and Tyler Spague. All three have been with us several years. They have been called on to do everything under the sun it seems and efficiently, cheerfully, and willingly rise to every occasion. We could not accomplish all we do in Hospitality Programs without their support behind us.
I would like to nominate the Physical Plant office (Will Gasper, Mike Kelly, Steve Huss, Rich Colby, Roger Bula and David Vanlangevelde) as recipients of this month's Pat on the Back Award for their exceptional clean up when a commercial truck had all it's hydraulic fluid leak out onto the ground in front of the Timme Building. They coordinated everything so efficiently, the whole thing was cleaned up and everything was back to normal within a very short time. They stopped the leak, removed the truck, had dirt hauled in to soak up the fluid and removed the dirt. It was an awesome display of teamwork. Everyone seemed to know what their job was and they all did it very well. Hats off to all of them!!!
Please nominate John Randle, for a Pat on the Back Award. We have a student that does an excellent job of helping us in the College of Business. She was notified that she ran out of work study funds and couldn't work any more. I called John and he reworked her work study budget and now the student is back working for us. Thank you John! I find John to be a very caring employee of the University and I am proud to call him a friend.
I would like to nominate Charlie Carpenter (Coordinator of Campus Services) for a Pat on the Back Award. Over the past 20+ years, he has consistently given more than was necessary and with a glad heart. In everything he does, he keeps the University’s best interest in mind. His work ethic, his compassion, and his amazing personality make him one of Ferris’ best assets. Thank you for everything you do for every department here at the best place in the world to work!
I would like to nominate Ted Halm, Web Content Manager, PRK 108-E for the FSU pat-on-the-back award. Ted recently helped our department with a couple of project ideas and worked in a timely and efficient manner. While we met, we came across a question that he did not know the answer to and within a few minutes he had someone there that could direct us. He further advised us on how to best handle a specific situation and what we could put on our webpage. We made our decision and while we were in his office he went through and made corrections/updates and added what we asked. He amazed us with his skill and efficiency. We are lucky to have him as a part of our community team!
I nominate Matt Eickhoff for his exemplary enthusiasm, tireless work ethic, knowledgeable dedication to his job, friendly spirit, and smiling optimism. His work on complex events such at Bulldog Bonanza, River Days, and Homecoming are a big part of why these activities have been such a success. The fact that he is a relatively recent Ferris graduate gives us even more reason to smile because the faculty who have had him as a student and now a co-worker on our campus can see first hand the fantastic way that Ferris prepares its graduates to be a success in their professions. Matt is not only an amazingly wonderful, witty, and warm person, he is a highly effective manager and administrator in Student Activities.
I would like to nominate Jo Gerst, Assistant Director for Admissions and Records, for a Pat on the Back Award. She always answers email, gets back with you when you leave her voice messages, and has shown extreme patience through Banner implementation. I want her to know that we do appreciate her.
I would like to nominate Brian Pacholka (Plastics and Rubber Lab Manager) for a Pat on the Back. Brian has been very supportive in developing and modifying equipment and obtaining material for use by myself and a Math/Science student who is working under my direction on a research project. Brian has been very responsive to needs and has even worked at his home to ensure project goals to be met. We appreciate his prompt and professional support
I would like to nominate the student employees from Media Production for the Pat on the Back Award. The work load in Media Production has nearly doubled from this same time last year, and our students have been working long, hard hours to help us keep up. They have been working not only their regular 8:00-5:00 shifts, but also many evenings and weekends. From the beginning of the semester through October 27, they have done over 160 video shoots totaling well over 200 hours with perfect attendance. These students also produce graphics, scans, video duplications and video playback on channel 22. An excellent job by Liz Raterink, Katie Rumpf, Kristina McIntyre, Paul Thompson, Matt Parrilli, Nick Paulin, Roxie Bockheim, and Katty Neill. We could not keep the faculty, staff, and students happy without them!
Angela Hollister - When ever I call over to the budget office she is always so nice and directs my call to the right place. Also she always answers the phone with a smile. It is refreshing to hear someone happy to answer the phone. Great job.
I would like to nominate two students, Elizabeth Johnson and Gemma Vance for the Ferris Pat on the Back Award. These two students are assigned as Work Study students in the Clinical Laboratory Sciences programs, as are several others. Their duties include helping to prepare for laboratories, cleaning up after laboratories, maintaining supply inventories, and generally helping out wherever possible. Fall semester 2006 began with our program's highest enrollment in years, so we have been running multiple sections of every laboratory course. In addition, our full time laboratory coordinator has accepted a faculty appointment, so we had no one to coordinate and supervise laboratory preparations or the work study students for the first five weeks of the semester! Liz and Gemma have worked extra hours and really saved the program faculty dozens of hours that we would have had to spend getting laboratories ready. They could have simply worked their scheduled hours, and it would have been our problem to get the work done, but they really pitched in and helped us out. We now have a laboratory coordinator in place, so Liz and Gemma can relax a bit. But the CLS program is truly grateful for their efforts and would like to see them get some recognition.
Rick Marek and Phil Balliet always have a positive attitude. We call in a lot of calls for our building and they are very good about letting us know what is happening and if they have to order parts. They take good care of us and we appreciate them so much. Great job Thanks guys.
I would like to nominate three dedicated employees, Joe Rinckey, Steve Miller and Kris Rasmussen for going above and beyond the call of duty to work straight through the evenings into the early hours of the morning when most everyone else were home sleeping, three nights in a row with VERY little sleep and a lot of stress on them and their families in order to restore the universities Docushare server. I know that some of their personal life had to be put on hold and other commitments had to be cancelled. So thank you Kris, Steve and Joe. Dedication like this isn't always easy to find. They each went well beyond the call of duty to fix a core critical server to both the Student Services and Academic Affairs sides of the FSU house--they ROCK!!
October 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Dr. William Potter, for always being positive, encouraging, a motivator, helping to think outside the box, having confidence in his staff, being reliable, trustworthy and open to suggestions.
Matt Yeoman, Assistant University Photographer. Matt went out of his way to share with me some of his photographic knowledge, which proved to be invaluable in allowing me to complete a project. Matt found time in his busy schedule to offer his assistance, which great contributed to allowing me to produce a quality project. A pat-on-the-back award would justly recognize Matt's excellent photographic skills and his positive contributions to the University.
Vice President Dan Burcham. During the August student move-in, one of our new students lost his wallet, panicked, and phoned Timme CSS to see what could be done since he had no money or ID. The employee politely spoke with him, and turned to VP Burcham for a response. The student was asked to go to CSS where VP Burcham gave him cash from his own pocket to hold him over. Later the student found his wallet in his room. The parents drove all the way back and with their student, went to VP Burcham to thank him and return the money. According a letter sent by the student's parents, VP Burcham's comment was, "of course I helped - he's part of the Ferris family...maybe you can do the same for someone in need sometime." This made a great impression on the student and the parents - who now "aspire to be more giving to those in need." VP Burcham is truly deserving of our thanks and a pat on the back!
Susan Morris is a lively, energetic presence in and outside of the classroom. She engages students in true dialogue, gets them to think, challenges their assumptions and manages to make the whole experience incredibly pleasant and FUN!
Jody Gardei. She works well with people, doesn't laugh (too much) when asked silly computer questions, and gives service with a smile.
Mike Johnson of Academic Technology Services warrants a Pat-On-The-Back. Recently the TLC Laser Eye Center technicians were unable to connect to their office computer in Kalamazoo in order to upload/download critical patient information. Instead of going to lunch, Mike rushed over to Optometry to fix the connectivity problem. Because of his extra efforts, the patients were able to receive their laser surgery. His exemplary efforts deserve a Pat-on-the-Back!
Dan Moellering from TAC. I am the advisor for an international student who was having difficulty navigating WebCT while taking his first online course at Ferris. I tried to help the student and the online instructor also tried. However, he needed the extra hands on help. I had contacted ASC but they didn't have anyone available to assist the student until the following week. In the meantime, the student had assignments that needed to be submitted. On the behalf of the student I called TAC to see if anyone could help him. Even though this was not a technical difficulty issue, Dan Moellering informed me of a time when he probably wouldn't be busy at TAC (8:00pm-10:00pm) and asked the student to call him during this time. The student called and Dan was extremely helpful. He went the extra mile and explained WebCT thoroughly with the student. The student e-mailed me thanking me for getting him in touch with Dan numerous times. He also indicated in his email that he wanted me to thank Dan for him and added that he is one of the young students that Ferris has to be proud of. In fact he wrote "I just want to say thank you very very very much for your help." Obviously with Dan's assistance, this student will have a very positive experience with online classes.
I would like to enthusiastically nominate Jennifer Hollister for a "pat on the back" award. Jen always has a smile and pleasant demeanor. Jen is the "glue" that holds Business Services office together, and it is appreciated.
I would like to recognize Sherry Hickman in Payroll for her tireless efforts handling payroll issues and concerns, especially for those of us in Housing. She has the patience of a saint, and handles all of our questions with a great attitude. 9-5 has meant nothing in getting everything straightened out. Thanks so much...we couldn't pay our students without you!
Linda Hayes works with admission of international students. In her contacts with international students and their families, Linda is extremely friendly, caring, patient and efficient. Students and families really appreciate the care with which she treats all of them. She does a great job and is a much valued individual in our international admissions process.
Tom Liszewski, Michelle Yax, Mark VanLent, and Dr. Paul Sullivan. Recently, I replaced the secretary in the front office who retired after many years with the Counseling Center. Tom, Michelle, Mark, and Dr. Sullivan have all been incredibly patient, supportive, and graciously receptive to ideas for any changes I wanted to make to the front office. Every day I have heard words of encouragement and positive feedback on my job performance by one or all of them. They made stress of learning a new job less intense, and consistently demonstrate what teamwork is really all about. The university should be proud of the outstanding services and dedication they provide for our students everyday.
Sarah Shattuck, student employee, College of Technology Dean's Office deserves a Pat-On-The-Back award. The College of Technology classrooms and administrative offices are located in six buildings spread throughout the Big Rapids campus. Sarah volunteered to walk through each classroom and office to correct over 100 posted event flyers in each building. She completed this task in less than a day in her usual upbeat manner. She always goes above and beyond in all her duties with a smile for everyone. Thanks to Sarah who shows true Ferris Pride every day.
Randy Shanks for all of his hard work - always with a great attitude - in creating a new check-in/stats program for us this summer. He has worked very hard and done a remarkable job. He's always ready and willing to make any changes that we need (things that come up as we use the new program) he does it with enthusiasm! He's done a remarkable job and a pat-on-the-back is more than deserved!
September 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Sarah Shattuck, student employee, College of Technology Dean's Office deserves a Pat-On-The-Back award. The College of Technology classrooms and administrative offices are located in six buildings spread throughout the Big Rapids campus. Sarah volunteered to walk through each classroom and office to correct over 100 posted event flyers in each building. She completed this task in less than a day in her usual upbeat manner. She always goes above and beyond in all her duties with a smile for everyone. Thanks to Sarah who shows true Ferris Pride every day.
I recently had Scott Claerhout spend about an hour installing my office computer. As a new faculty I was very impressed with his technical efficiency as well as his attitude. He was very helpful in answering many of the questions I had. Scott, similar to the others I have interacted with during my short time at Ferris, was a very positive campus representative. When he told me to call him with any more questions, I sensed sincerity; not just going through the motions.
We would like to nominate the Student Leadership and Activities office (Cindy Horn, Teresa Fogel, Matt Eickhoff and their spectacular staff of students), Sherry Hayes and Dr. Michael Cairns as recipients of this month's Pat on the Back Award for their, once again, flawless execution of the Welcome Week events. We received very positive feedback from everyone involved. We appreciate their leadership for pulling together a wonderful Welcome Week committee and for collaborating with so many groups of people in the Ferris community. Thank you and congratulations for another successful opening to our school year!
I would like to nominate Amy Otteson from Institutional Research & Testing for a Pat-on-the-back Award. I have worked with her several times over the last year regarding surveys for our office, and she is a pleasure to work with every time. Her turn-around time on projects is amazing, and she is just so darn friendly to deal with. She really makes it easy to "work together".
Jill Trinklein from the HVACR department deserves a Pat-on-the-back award for always going above and beyond the call of duty--especially when it concerns "swimming in the ice cream." Jill is a recruiter for the HVAC program and one of the things that she does is offer tours of Granger Center--complete with ice cream cones--until the machine breaks--that's when the swimming comes in. Way to go Jill--you are AWESOME--even if you do smell like an ice cream cone!!
Please accept this as my nomination for Barb Renne, CSS 101-P for Pat-on-the-back. She displayed exemplary service by following a sobbing student into the ladies restroom to console her and offer her assistance. Barb handled the situation with tact and compassion, offering to sit down with the student and try to resolve the problem. Barb offered this distressed student a ray of hope and caring when she was most in need.
Congratulations on the start of the LONG-awaited Judicial Action (Pave Systems) Database for Student Judicial Services. Thank you to Nancy Mettlach for accepting my challenge to take the lead in coordinating the detailed process of getting this new database purchased, and operational. Nancy has done a truly outstanding job with this difficult task. Thank you also to Ashley Atteberry who's incredible work ethic and calm demeanor has been invaluable in getting the database up and running. Thanks to Mike Slocum for his excellent input and suggestions and for representing the Hall Directors so well. I want to express my gratitude to Jana, Jon, Leroy, Brian and the Hall Directors for their patience, assistance, feedback and support. Obviously, a special thanks goes to Jim Cook, Kris Rasmussen, Jeff Spedowski, Tom Jackson and Paul Heidemann for all of their technical help and support (and patience with us). To say that "we couldn't have done it without you " is such an understatement. Thank you so much! I also want to thank Lisa Besemer and Linda Golden in the Purchasing Department for their advice and for always being so helpful. Thanks everyone!
Tim Pullen, Physical Plant HVACR employee, deserves two pat-on-the back awards. One for turning on the AC at Granger to help the finish dry two weeks ago and a pat-on-the-back for fixing a heating water supply line that was dripping down on to a computer at Granger. Tim had some helpers who also deserve honorable mentions Bill Ruppel, Bill Conrad and Eli Williams. Thanks guys!! You Rock!!
I would like to nominate Vice President Michael Harris for the Pat-on-the-Back Award. I recently received an email from an employee who attended Michael's welcome to the new faculty and left inspired. After his welcome and thoughts and views, this person left knowing they "make a difference, will make a difference and have made a difference... Michael.. was right where he needed to be. I was ready to follow. Michael should get an "atta boy" and a figuratively pat on the back."
I would like to nominate Asmaa Kouider (student employee at the Student Service Center) for all her hard work. She is always willing to take on what needs to be done and willing to go that extra mile to make sure things get done on a timely fashion.
I would like to nominate Debbera Lunsted from student employment for a pat on the back award. I have taken over student hiring for our office from our department secretary and it was all new to me and Deb has been great about helping me. She walked me through all the steps, told me which of our returning students had work study and explained to me where each form was in my FSU and helped me avoid any mistakes. She is most certainly an asset to the student employment office and the University Community.
Sue Terry, Educational and Career Counseling Center, and Kerstin Rios, Disability Services, for assisting with the stuffing of the Ferris State University Seminar (FSUS) courses packets. Having no fear of paper cuts, they charged ahead and worked on the mountain of paper materials for fall distribution, great team work gals.
I would like Nancy Walcutt to receive a Pat On The Back. She is always very helpful to me and is nice about it. For a little person she carries a full load. Hat's off to her.
Shawn Lagasse because of his service to the college of pharmacy and his willingness to take the extra step. Shawn has built up a reputation in the college of pharmacy as the "go to guy" for technical needs and supports them with the highest effectiveness and customer oriented attitude. Not only will Shawn go above and beyond the customers expectations, but he does it with a smile on his face and a wonderful attitude to his customers. He truly exemplifies what hard work and goal oriented people are like.
I would like to nominate Gerri Gomber, Janet Romanowski, and the entire staff of the communication center for a pat on the back award. The communication center hears a lot of complaints, including complaints from myself, about misdirected phone calls or too many transfers. These complaints are from people who obviously have no idea what goes on within the communication center. I just walked an hour in their shoes, and couldn't wait to leave. (Sorry guys, but your job is very stressful.) For the full hour that I was there, the phone never stopped ringing. Not even for 10 seconds so that I could breath. As soon as I hung up the receiver, the phone was ringing again. Most of the callers were calling to yell at someone about their bill. Most of the callers had been on hold, and were now furious about that too. For the full hour that I was in the communication center, everyone working there was just as busy or busier than I was. I also found out that some of the communication center employees have been working 6+ days a week. Even with all of this, all of the communication center employees had wonderful, cheerful attitudes and were very kind to our callers. They were kind after days of being yelled at for problems they did not create, nor did they have the power to fix. If anyone thinks their job is stressful, donate an hour to the communication center. The communication center will appreciate the help, and after your hour is over, you will appreciate your job.
Good morning. We would like to nominate Nick Prentiss for his efforts with our King/Chavez/Parks College Day Program. Nick served on a student panel for our College of Technology partnered KCP Visit in April, 2006 with Southfield Lathrop High School. Nick was so enthusiastic about being a Ferris student, about his program (Television and Digital Media Production) and about his volunteer experiences. He spoke so eloquently and with such passion. As a result, a student participating in the event decided to apply to Ferris and into the program that Nick was in. She originally was not going to come here, but Nick's excitement changed her mind. She applied and is now accepted. Because of Nick's efforts, she will begin her own experiences as a Bulldog this fall!
I nominate Mike Cairns for this award. He is witty, warm, has tremendous attention to detail, and does his best to bring people together to work as a team. He is a natural born leader, and his desire to make Ferris a better place affects all with whom he comes in contact.
I nominate Bill Potter, dean of University College, for this award. Bill is honest and straight forward. He sees the big picture, grasps the essential issues that affect us in academe, and is tireless in his support of those in his employ.
I also nominate Penny Bouman. Penny is creative, a quick study, has a great attitude and is always willing to try new things in an effort to make the institution run more smoothly.
I would like to nominate Darci Stevens for a Pat on the Back award. The mouse on one of our computers quit working on a day that most of the TAC personnel were away on training. We were desperate to have that computer going because it was necessary for the production of some emergency jobs, and none of the other mouses (mice?) in our office would fit it. Darci came over herself with a new mouse and got us going!!!! What a life-saver.....she is a real asset to FSU!
I would like to nominate the ENTIRE STAFF from the BUSINESS OFFICE AND ENROLLMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT, this would include the staff from admissions, financial aid, and registrars. With the implementation of the Banner system the stress and extra hours all these folks have had to endure in order for this fall's 12,000+ students to be able to come to FSU is extraordinary. Their cooperative efforts here in BR and GR have been exemplary. They ALL deserve a POTB t-shirt! I am very proud to work with these folks!
August 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Nikki Bigelow, student employee, Student Employment & Career Services, deserves a big Pat-On-The-Back. She always has a smile on her face and goes above and beyond to help students and parents with any questions they may have. This was especially evident during the orientation process where Nikki was always upbeat and happy to assist everyone who needed it even during busy and sometimes stressful times. Thanks to Nikki who shows true Ferris Pride throughout the work day.
Please consider for a Pat-on-the-back award the academic computer support team responsible for the College of Arts & Sciences, University College, and the University Center for Extended Learning. Members of the team are team leader, Jody Gardei, and her team members, Bill Abrahamson, Jacob Bouvrette, Kelly Cothery, Curtis Earl, Marshall Gladding, Alex Kundinger, Russ Mishler, Josh Schrade, John Hassenzhl and Randy Shanks. This team is a model to learn from in Academic Technology Services. This group works together as a true team maximizing their potential and delivering exceptional customer service to their customers. This team received the highest marks, close to 100% across all categories of the recent Information Technology Satisfaction Survey. Well done ATS Team Beta!
Mike Johnson, deserves a Pat-on-the-back award for his "can do" attitude with academic computer support. Mike has done an excellent job responding to the computer support needs in the College of Education and the College of Optometry. Mike's customer oriented approach and service experience are a great asset to Academic Technology Services. Keep up the fine work Mike!
Lee Weaver deserves a Pat-on-the-back award for providing exceptional academic computer support service in the College of Technology. Lee has accomplished this task by working well with his peers, students and customers. He has recognized and leveraged automation technologies to improve response time and quality for his customers. Lee's innovative approach to support has maximized his potential and effectiveness on his support team. Well done Lee!
I'd like to nominate Joe Viviano from the TAC for a Pat On The Back. My daughter (a student) and I were each having problems accessing our web-based email from any FSU computer and our ISP was unable to resolve the issue. Joe was tenacious in his troubleshooting this problem, working with the ISP by phone and even setting up a test account for himself, in order to observe, diagnose and resolve the problem. Joe and the TAC deserve a real pat on the back for bulldog tenacity!
The Technology Assistance Center moved to the West building recently. I would like to recognize the TAC staff, particularly Gary Lutz, Quentin Kramer, Phyllis Sherman, C. J. LeTourneau, and Darci Stevens for all the extra work they put in to get the move to happen as smoothly as possible! They spent most of their weekend getting things ready to go, executing the move, and cleaning up the mess after!
Stephanie Patton, Custodian, Granger, JANUS Training Program Trainer Stephanie has been instrumental in the JANUS training program. She has spent countless hours of her own time to ensure the program is very successful and informative. Without her dedication the JANUS program would not be the same. You ROCK Steph!
I would like to nominate Phil Tetsworth, financial aid, for the Pat on the Back award. Phil is always willing to chip in and help when people need him in. He does more than his share and does it with a great attitude. He is good to our students and really tries to go the extra mile to help them. Phil is just a great guy and he is fun to work with.
I don't want to nominate a person but an office. I work at the Office of Student Leadership and Activities and the staff (both student and professional) are great. They have worked all summer to prepare for the fall semester and have numerous events lined up for the students. Not only that but also aided in the planning of "eat up and get down" summer concert series at Quiznos. This staff makes campus life better for all Ferris State University and all of them deserve a pat on the back. The staff includes JD Fiscus, Sarah Jennings, Shanyn Leonard, Michele Lovett, Stephanie Thibert, Nichole Wheelock, Kely Adkins, Bianca Dannenberg, Matt Eickhoff, Teresa Fogel, Cindy Horn and Celeste Belcher-Girard.
I would like to nominate Rob Lukofsky and Mitch DeVries for a Pat on the Back. These two Ferris Football players are fine representations of high performance and dependability, always achieving and reaching the end goal. These gentleman always came to work with a “We Can Do It Attitude.” Residential Life Custodial has truly appreciated the work they have done this summer to assist with moving heavy objects and the overall the numerous other things that they have accomplished to assist in helping us get the halls and apartments ready for occupancy. We are all grateful for their helping hands!
Mickey Mills, supfac, Radiography. Mickey goes above and beyond her job when it comes to the students and her fellow co-workers. All of us would like to say a huge THANK YOU for everything she has done. We don't know what we would do without her.
July 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Kim Kleeves and Annette Erler deserve a Pat-on-the-back award for their support of the Janus Custodial Training Team. We can always count on these two beautiful ladies to help us out with things when we need it. Thank you. :-)
Deb Savides deserves a Pat-on-the-back award for all that she does for the Night Custodial Staff. We love you Deb!!
Doug Ginnever, Electrician for Granger Center, deserves a pat-on-the-back award because he took time out from a busy project to make the hallways at Granger safer by replacing some important lighting that happened to burned out. Thanks. We appreciate it a lot. You rock!!
I would like to nominate Dan "the man" Sims for a pat-on-the-back award because even when he isn't feeling the greatest, he always manages to give 110% to the people he is assisting. He even asks others if they need help without being directed to. Can we clone you Dan?? You are awesome!!
I would like to nominate Jeff Tellkamp aka Gopher, for a Pat-on-the-back award because everytime our equipment fails, Jeff always shows up with another piece of equipment and he does it with a smile on his face. Way to go Jeff!! Sorry if the nickname sticks!! :)
I would like to nominate Betty L. Nelson for the Pat on the Back Award. Betty is a Student Service Rep 3 in the Admissions and Records Office. In all of my dealings with her, she in a word has been "wonderful". She is ALWAYS extremely pleasant, caring and most helpful in problem solving. She is a true professional who knows her job and is willing to take the time to work on student issues.
I would like to nominate Lisa Wilson and Jason Mason, part of the custodial crew, for their quick response to a toner mess during Orientation. They responded very quickly and did a thorough job cleaning up the mess and carpet! They took great pride in making sure everything was spotless and we just wanted to thank them for doing a great job!
Each year the School of Education offers courses through Title II grant programs. Trying to get graduate students registered properly for these courses is not any easy job. Judy Becker has been a huge help in this process and even gave up part of her lunch to make sure it was done as quickly as possible. Judy and all the ladies in CSS have been extremely helpful to me.
At a recent Janus Custodial Training, Linda Ferguson baked chocolate chip cookies to share with all of the individuals who were taking the program. Linda is awesome and she always goes above and beyond to help people all of the time. I think she deserves the pat-on-the-back award for the year!! Way to go Linda, You Rock!!
June 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Cindy Horn, director, Student Leadership and Activities. Cindy is deserving of a huge Pat-on-the-back for all of the hard work she puts in with the Office of Student Leadership & Activities. She works hard to support the 200+ student organizations on campus, plan and execute large campus-wide events, and develop leadership programs for our young leaders. She has to handle situations both good and bad, and does both with passion and integrity. Her influence on our students was made very apparent at this year's Torchbearer Leadership Awards. It was a great event, and allowed many people to see the influence that out-of-the-classroom experiences have on developing FSU students into the best and brightest leaders that our campus can offer. She is a great mentor and leader, and she manages to do everything she does with a great sense of "Bulldog Pride."
Jean Vallier, student service representative, Business Operations. Jean contributes so much to the first floor and the entire Timme Center Building for that matter. Rarely does she receive credit for it. She volunteers so much of her personal time, money and talents to make our work environment a warm and happy place. Whenever there is a holiday, or a changing of the seasons, Jean is right there with decorations and ideas to make it a more festive building. She is a generous person always thinking of others. If there is someone out with an illness, or someone in the hospital, Jean is always the person that organizes gifts and cards. She does all of this on her personal time. She also takes care of our breakroom and makes sure that it is clean and has plenty of supplies. She does much of this too on her own time. I think it is important to have a good work environment, and I think Jean goes out of her way to try and create that for the first floor to the Timme Center. We don't realize all she does, and we sometimes forget to show her how much we really appreciate it. I think receiving a Pat on the Back award may be a small way to show her we do.
Officer Aaron Humphreys, Public Safety, deserves a pat-on-the-back award for enduring the rain falling down while helping my dad retrieve something he misplaced.
Technical Services team for coming in on the weekend of May 7th to monitor systems during the campus-wide planned power outage. The staff spent many hours planning and preparing for the outage and it paid off by having very minimal issues and the University was able to maintain web presence on ferris.edu and Lotus Notes during the outage. We appreciate the efforts and of: Mike DePew, Sidney Eaton, Rick McKibben, Gary Rolston, Steve Miller, Kris Rasmussen, Tom Jackson, Vicky Deur, Lynn Lewis, Mike Miklusicak and Dave Steffens.
Lorie Callcut, director, UCEL - Flint. Lorie managed and coordinated another special graduation day for the Ferris State University graduates at the Flint site. Lorie covered all the details, from ensuring that the graduation booklet with accurate and up-to-date, to the scrolls and flowers handed out, and even making sure that all the facutly had their proper regalia on time. Good Job!
Dionne Serges secretary, UCEL - Flint. Dionne coordinated the first ever pre-graduation evening event for the Southeast Michigan graduates of Ferris State. Dionne has only been with Ferris for six months, yet she coordinated all the details including flowers, food, facilities, and following up with those who hadn't RSVPd. It was a wonderful event!
The Office of Minority Student Affairs would like to give Jaquelyn Cargile, Frank Dye, Martin 2X Gordon, Aaron Guyton, Aaron Jackson, Dante Jennings, Keontay Kelly, Michael Noble, David Reed, Carnel Richardson, Vanita Sanders, Arthur Slavic, Brent, a huge Pat-on-the-Back for their help in our 21st Annual Pig-nic at Hemlock Park on Saturday, April 29. Because of their help, our Pig-nic was a huge success. We couldn’t have done it without them. We appreciate their leadership, their positive attitudes and their dedication to service.
Darren Wilson, assistant professor, Heavy Equipment. Darren has put considerable effort into making his courses excellent. Behind the scenes he has worked hard to upgrade teaching materials, recruit students, and to make his program the best in the country. I wanted Darren to know that his efforts have been noticed and that he is an example of the type of person that makes Ferris a great place.
Lori Henderson, data security administrator, ISTS. She has been very helpful to me with my banner projects and is very willing to help out in a very timely manner. I would be at
a standstill without her.
May 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Rex Wiseman, electrician for Granger Center, because anytime the lights go out, Rex doesn't make us wait in the dark for long. He is very prompt at completing the electrical work orders that we send in. We really appreciate the fact that we can depend on him. :) Rex--You Rock!!
Ron McKean, associate dean, College of Technology. Ron went out of his way with short notice to make it to our Winter 2006 Chrysler CAP advisory committee meeting on April 6th. It was great to have Ron there and it helped demonstrate our strong connection with industry here at Ferris State.
Mike Pack, Tatjana Ratzenberger, Matt Johnson, Heidi Weglarz, and Steve Barclay, 3rd year optometry students for volunteering to give eye examinations to members of the visiting contingent from An Giang University in Vietnam. Sandra Phan, 2nd year optometry student, for volunteering to be a translator during these examinations. These students graciously took time out of their busy schedules on Friday afternoon, April 7, 2006, to fulfill an unscheduled request of our international visitors. Finally, Clinic staff at the Michigan College of Optometry for aiding in our efforts to administer eye examinations to the visitors from Vietnam. I especially want to thank Jenny Ososki for administering the Optos photography on each of our visitors. I am extremely proud to have such great citizens as part of the student body here at the Michigan College of Optometry.
Tony Kettel, set-up coordinator, Rankin Center. Over the past four years, as we coordinated the Ferris State Spaghetti Bridge Competition, Tony was our set-up person, coordinator, technician, advisor, and reminder. We simply could not have accomplished the tasks involved without Tony! If we could present him with a gold star or a gigantic thank you card, we would like to do that. Tony Kettel, you are truly a fantastic worker and Ferris State is incredibly fortunate to have you among its employees! Thank you!!
Stan Vallier, Billy Allers, and the rest of the catering crew. When a scheduled informational visit from the Vietnamese delegation evolved into a luncheon for ten people a few hours before the anticipated arrival of the guests, Stanley took the last-minute request for food in stride. Billy Allers arrived before the appointed time with the Catering cart and within minutes, he and his partner had set up an attractive display of tasty dishes to please the eye, tempt the palate, satisfy the hunger, and NOT break the budget. Kudos to Catering for their fast and friendly service, delicious food, and willingness to help out at the last minute.
Luzia Tartari, international admissions specialist. Luzia is a tireless promoter of all good things international, but a particular reason for nominating her now is to recognize her hard work with the International Festival of Cultures, held in Rankin Center April 9, 2006. Most people from both the Big Rapids and the University communities agree that this is one of the most successful projects Ferris carries out. Fewer recognize the enormous effort the Festival requires, and fewer still realize that without Luzia it probably would not have happened this year. Luzia's cheerful enthusiasm and unflagging determination in the face of significant challenges made the Festival a genuine success.
Kent Kacherterian, graphics designer, Media Productions for his supurb production of graphics materials on short notice to welcome the Vietnamese delagation here on April 6th.
And, Terry Pitts, our Physical Plant carpenter here in Science and ASC also put up our billboard of a bulletin board single handedly in time for this important visit by Vietnamese delegation on an official US State Department visit to FSU.
Greenhouse manager, Andrea Ludholtz and I had a lot of last minute work to get the nicely designed materials and welcome banner up on the bulletin board, but the delegation really enjoyed seeing the personal touch we arranged in reaching out to their university, An Giang University in Vietnam, including the picture of our FSU study abroad students and Phill Watson in front of their library on the banner.
Thanks to the dean of Arts and Sciences, Matt Klein, for funding this project and the permanent bulletin board.
Rosemary Kailing and Nancy Robinson of Academic Technology Services (ATS). They both are fun to work with and hardworking individuals. Without them the ATS would fall apart!
Karan Noller, Pam Panek, and Barbie Cornell, custodians, Timme CSS, who did an extraordinary job preparing Timme CSS for Saturday's Evening of Appreciation. The building sparkled for our visitors due to their wonderful efforts and attention to detail.
Barb Eberts and Brian Kurisky, Residential Life, for all of the help they gave me during Sibs and Kids Weekend. From creating and putting names in the database, to cutting out Saturn nametags to just being a shoulder and ear for me, I could not have gotten through the weekend or the weeks leading up to it without them. They both helped without expecting anything in return and I will be forever grateful to them for everything. I appreciate you both so much!
Greg Nicholson, auto/hquip repair techician, Heavy Equipment Department, for work above and beyond the call of duty. Greg has accomplished something I thought could never be done. He has cleaned up lot 58 ... spaced used by the Heavy Equipment Department for parking vehicles used for instruction and apparently by anyone on campus that needed to get rid of junk. His organizational skills along with his quality of work are exceptional. Hiring Greg has been one of the few good decisions made by the department.
Katherine Renee Susemihl, FLITE, Katherine has been working at the Access Services of FLITE since October 2004. Through her daily job performance, she has clearly put quality customer service as the priority and purpose of her work. She is competent, efficient, responsible, and reliable. She has demonstrated a positive work ethic by treating patrons and co-workers with respect and sincerity. Katherine is certainly a valuable asset to our Access Services team!
April 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Barb Spedowski, secretary, Residential Life. She is quick, efficient, answers all emails, phone calls, gets the job done! She puts time, thought and caring into her work. She does more than just come to work to get a paycheck. She truly cares about the students.
Rex Wiseman, electrician, for Granger Center, because anytime the lights go out, Rex doesn't make us wait in the dark for long. He is very prompt at completing the electrical work orders that we send in. We really appreciate the fact that we can depend on him. :) Rex--You Rock!!
Larry Schult, Gary Gawne, Greg Vodry, Brian Anderson, Denise Wild and Dan Sims. Over the spring break the rain and melting ice resulted in water leaks in the National Elastomer Center roof. The water was dripping on molds in the lab area that would have easily damaged them if not for the quick thinking of this group of people. They quickly covered the area with plastic and notified key individuals. Their quick thinking and efforts minimized any damage.
Congratulations to team members from Marketing and Communications and Admissions who contributed to the work that yielded a gold award for Ferris State University's search piece and a merit award for overall recruitment package in the annual Admissions Advertising Awards competition entered by public and private colleges and universities nationwide. All the materials were produced in-house compared to a number of other winning materials that were created by an agency. The Marketing and Communications staff will receive a certificate acknowledging their contributions to the field of admissions marketing and advertising. Special thanks go to Susan Starkey, assistant director of Marketing Communications; Al Williams, senior graphic designer; Michelle Herron, communications specialist; photographers Bill Bitzinger and Matt Yeoman; Craig Westman, director of Admissions; and Penny Bouman, manager of enrollment publications and communications.
Brophy/McNerney staff and residents for there awesome pride and support of others in the Ferris Community. The Brophy/McNerney staff recently held a Pie your RA where they raised over $700 dollars. These funds are being donated to Kristina Davis, Residential Life custodian from Carlisle who has recently gone through a transplant due to Leukemia. The Brophy/McNerney staff/residents continue to support others in the community and really show their care and concern and always come through! It is so awesome to see this kind of community development and I really think it needs to be recognized.
March 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Tom and Sue Isabell, custodians, Automotive Center. They do a fantastic job of keeping our building clean despite all the salt and increased number of classes in the evening. I would like them to know the faculty appreciates their efforts.
Mike Cline, project leader, and Jim Lapeer, senior systems programmer, Information Services, for their cheerful, dedicated and successful assistance in determining why my computer would not run the needed financial aid reports! Thank you! Thank you!
Biology Department Greenhouse staff and faculty and department support staff (secretary and lab prep coordinator) for making the Biology Department the most inviting office on campus...bar none. Our new display of window planters in the corridor between Science Building and Arts and Science Commons, the ever-changing orchid and tropical plant display in our departmental office.
Ted Halm, web content manager, for his great work with our website. He also worked on getting links to sites like Google for the Jim Crow Museum and this resulted in Dr. Pilgrim getting a phone call from California from Will Smith. THANK YOU for all you do, TED!! We appreciate all your hard work and efforts.
2006 Dr. MLK Jr. Planning Committee members for their efforts during MLK Week at Ferris State University. The week of events generated over 1400 participants and helped raise over $400 to be donated to the Mecosta/Osceola Walk for Warmth campaign. The committee, which began meeting in September 2005, went above and beyond the call of duty in order to create a more inclusive, engaged and diverse campus community. Thank you, committee members, for all of your help, hard work and dedication in keeping Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream alive! The planning committee members were: Sandy Alspach, Michiko Alvarenga, Tangynica Anderson, Anthony Baker, Jasmyne Brookins, Cheytaya Brown, Delilah Cornish, Wendy Dodd, Matt Eickhoff, Reverend Jon Fleming, Raymond Gant, Pastor Robert Garrels, Karen GreenBay, Kaiya Hamilton, Todd Heft, Cindy Horn, Jewel Johnson, Katherine Palazzolo-Miller, David Pilgrim, Vanita Sanders, Okia Strickland, John Thorp, Charlie Wade, Maurice Webb, Hurdylyn Woods, Nina Woods, Leroy Wright, and Representatives from: Black Greek Council, Entertainment Unlimited, First Expressions, Inter-Fraternity Council, N.S.M.H., N.A.A.C.P., Order of Omega, Social Work Association, and Y.B.B.W.
Bill Bitzinger, university photographer, University Advancement and Marketing, for his exceptional photography and dedication to meet a very tight timeline. Bill enlarged and framed several photos of a wife of one of Ferris’ major donors. She had just passed away, and Bill made sure that the widower had the photos for the funeral the next day. The photos meant the world to her husband.
Katy Moore, surveying equipment room clerk, Surveying Department. Katy has been a tremendous asset to the Surveying program. In addition to handing out equipment and keeping inventory, Katy has assisted with secretarial duties. She is always willing to step in and help.
Glenn Zobel, moving coordinator, Physical Plant. Glenn is great to work with! I greatly appreciate his flexibility and willingness to do what it takes to make it happen!
The entire Catering Staff and Crew, as a big "Thank You" for all your help and flexability in assisting us complete another very successful job fair season. Brenna and Stan, you and yours are GREAT!
February 2006, Nominator's Comments:
John Bush, custodian, dental hygiene. He works hard every day to keep our dental hygiene clinics, radiology lab, dental materials lab, and the dental reception area clean and sanitary. He works long hours and very hard and we want him to know that his work is very much appreciated by the dental hygiene staff and students. During our dental hygiene accreditation site visit, John worked even harder to make our clinics and dental area sparkle. He coordinated all of the work needing to be done with Robert Kleeves. Not only does John work very hard to keep our area looking sharp, he has a wonderful personality and we care a great deal about John. He is always willing to help us with any custodial requests. He is always cheerful, pleasant and very trustworthy. John is very deserving of the award of "A Pat On the Back."
Robert Kleeves, custodial supervisor, assisted the dental hygiene department in orchestrating the extra attention needed prior to the accreditation site visit. Thanks Robert. It is our understanding that Greg Vodry, Frank Mondrella, and Ken Moses also worked tirelessly during this time to assist with making our entire dental floor sparkle for the site visit. Thanks to all of you and if there were any others involved, please forgive us for not mentioning your names, but a heartfelt thanks is extended to all of you for your special efforts!
Samantha Smith, student intern, has been doing a fantastic job assisting in the preparation of Banner training materials. Team Leads power users from the Finance, Student and Human Resources modules provide her with content and she organizes it into a template and incorporates screen shots. We appreciate Samantha's contribution to the Banner Project.
Jim Cook (IS and T), Jeff Spedowski, Kris Rasmussen, Mike Slocum, Celeste Belcher-Girard, Nancy Mettlach, Ashley Atteberry. Each of these individuals recently made significant contributions of time and effort to the Student Judicial Services Database Selection Committee. Their job was to research multiple student judicial databases to replace the existing database which is outdated. These individuals put a great deal of time into making sure the new database meets the needs of Hall Directors and others on campus who require a fast, reliable and effective student judicial database. I appreciate their hard work and attention to detail.
To the individuals who gave up time during their Christmas break to convert data for both the Banner Student and Human Resource Systems. Some of these individuals worked through the entire break. Their dedication to the successful implementation of the Banner Project is exemplary and their willingness to give up their holiday time is very much appreciated. The University owes a debt of gratitude to these individuals, as well as to all of the Banner Team members, for their commitment to this project. The holiday break warriors include: Kathy Fisher, Cathryn Claerhout, Dave Engels, Bruce Gilchrist, Sam Fattore, Rob Wagner, Jo Gerst, Craig Westman, Dave Steffens, Lora Caputo, Kim Latendresse, and Bobbie Landreth. Kudos to you all!
Sherry Standen in Admissions and Records for her helpfulness and patience with off-campus applications/admissions processes. Her willingness to go above and beyond to help students was very much appreciated by both the students and all of the Extended Learning staff.
Tara Benzing in the University Center for Extended Learning for her willingness and enthusiasm to dig in and learn about the Study Abroad and Student Exchange programs in a very short period of time so she was able to effectively help students and faculty with their needs. She really hit the ground running.
To all of the many Ferris staff and faculty on- and off-campus that work so hard to make Ferris programs available to the many students that are unable to come to Big Rapids, but still want to continue their education. There are too many people to mention and many colleges and departments are involved in some way, but they all deserve a pat-on-the-back for going the extra mile to help these Ferris students reach their goals.
Paul Heidemann, part-time technician, SATS. Paul volunteered to develop on his own time a work order database for Media Production. This database is being used to track work orders, calculate charges, and issue invoices. Thank you, Paul, for providing us with the means to track our activities and provide statistical reports.
Michelle Allen, part-time clerical, Honors Program, is very conscientious and dependable. She always has a smile on her face, she is very positive, very upbeat, and a pleasure to be around. She also has a wonderful sense of humor which is always a welcome addition to any office and we are lucky to have her.
Michelle Herron, communications specialist, University Advancement and Marketing. Michelle went above the call of duty as a part-time employee earlier this year, creating two excellent radio advertisements for Ferris, working the Muskegon Air Show FSU Alumni booth on a weekend, hosting sessions at Dawg Days, and now as a full-time employee (Welcome Aboard!) she volunteered to manage the web content for the new Virtual Women's Center. Way to go Meshe.
January 2006, Nominator's Comments:
Thanks to Debbie Buck and all the FCTL [Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning] staff for the excellent job they do helping to stage the Distinquished Teacher Speakers' series. Debbie has been one of the keys to success for the program and large turn out of participants because she does such a great job of organizing, promoting, and hosting the events.
President Eisler deserves a pat on the back (can we pat him?) (Sure we can!) for hosting the event. Because of support from his office we have been able to offer lunch and a great speaker at a well-attended event three times this fall and have some nice programs lined up for winter also. His encouragement of colloquia like this speaks to his dedicating to engaging this campus in meaningful discussions.
Sam Fattore, Manager of Technical Services in Admissions and Records went above and beyond the call of duty when, despite being very busy, he helped me figure out why I could not complete a required SCT Banner Post-Test; test was 30 questions, I had successfully completed 27. All "Banner people" were in training, so Sam came to my rescue. He quickly discovered that JAVA had never been installed on my computer; he installed JAVA and didn't even lose any of the questions I had already completed. Thanks, Sam!
December 2005, Nominator's Comments:
John Strohkirch, Heavy Equipment faculty, for his work making the Heavy Equipment 12th annual "Big Feed" possible. Also to Bruce Jacobs, retired Heavy Equipment faculty member for helping out. These guys were up at 3 A.M. smoking turkeys. An estimated 175 students, faculty, support and retirees were served on 11/9.
Barrington Dykes, student custodian, Dining Administrative Office, for his superior effort in keeping our office clean. He is a self starter, works hard and goes above the call of duty. He takes great pride in his work and does it very well. The dining administrative office is appreciative of his great effort.
Laura Webber, front desk student employee, Dining Administrative Office. She does a fantastic job helping customers, answering the phone and assisting with organizing the office. She is a self starter who takes pride in her work. She is always willing to do what ever is asked of her. We appreciate her customer service skills.
Sue Brown, Dining Administrative Office, is the person to call when you are looking for resources. She steps up to help, pays close attention to details, and sincerely cares about students and fellow employees. Sue is a very valuable asset to our office and we appreciate her very much.
I would like to take this time to nominate the following individuals for a Pat-On-The Back Award for their hard work in planning November Awareness activities that helped to educate the campus community about sexual assault and aggression. I could not have asked for a better group of people who spent countless hours brainstorming and coming up with a creative campaign to promote awareness that targets how we educate our male students about sexual violence, masculinity, communication, and stereotyping. Our Campaign was "Are You A Strong Man On Campus?" "Hats Off" to the following staff and students: Nick Campau, Lindsay Attwood, Officer Joy Paquette, Charles Wade, Barb Eberts, Lauren Stilwell, Amanda Luchies, Jason Cronkrite, Jesse Atteberry, Jeanne Bolle
Mike Toles, Mike Troupe, and John Pasquantonio, Physical Plant, for their efforts in trying to regulate the temperature in FLITE. Given the complexities of the heating and cooling system and the ever-changing Michigan weather, this is no mean feat. Thanks, guys!
Lee Ann Martin, Rock Cafe, because she is an excellent worker. She stays past her shifts and always gets the job done. She is a valuable team member...the place wouldn't run without her.
November 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Brent Kundinger, ATS-Sigma Team Technician - for having one of the largest support academic areas, Brent has had to learn many highly technical software titles and get them to work with each other. His diligence and positive upbeat attitude makes his support areas successful and running very well. Way to go Brent.
Christine O. Jacobs, Circulation Services, FLITE. On Thursday, October 6, Chris was called at home at 4:00AM by the library night supervisor to be informed that the 4AM replacement night supervisor had not shown up to work. Chris got up, came in to work the Extended Hours part of the library where there were approximately half a dozen students who had been studying since midnight. She is always available to do this kind of thing, and has done it many times in the past. This is real dedication to the job and to the students of Ferris. She gets little or no recognition of all that she does, so I believe she deserves a great big PAT-ON-THE-BACK-AWARD in recognition of this above and beyond concern for our students.
Nikki Bigelow, Jennie Zimmerman, Elyse Earnest, Julie Monks, Acacia Norman, student employees, Student Employment and Career Services. At this time I would like to recommend our student staff to be acknowledged for all their hard work getting ready for the Job Fair and for their hard work at the Job Fair. It takes a lot of effort to get ready as well as the hard work during set up for the Job Fair. The companies that attended the Job Fair had many good comments regarding our student employees and felt that we had a good crew and that they were very helpful.
Marsha Longbrake, Donna Myers, Sherry Standen, Linda Reed, Jacque Campau, Beth Prochazka, Kelli London, and Cathryn Claerhout, Admissions and Records. In order to make the transfer equivalencies be a smooth transition from SIS to Banner, tens of thousands of transfer equivalence course records needed to be reviewed and updated! This enormous task was completed in record time thanks to the hard work of this group!
Eric Marshall, Nhu-Khanh Nguyen, Stacey Purcell, job fair student volunteers; Julie Monks, and Jennie Zimmerman, student employees, Student Employment and Career Services; Carrie Adams, job fair assistant; Debbie Lunsted, Laurie Kilborne, SECS's staff. While we had a large group of student volunteers that helped later in the day. This group was the 8 a.m. support that "went above and beyond" when a miscommunication left us with 113 tables/226 chairs to set up. We did it in record time! It was a great group effort.
Dr. John Cullen serves with a smile, encouragement and warmth. He has been a huge support to the staff and students in the Honors Program since he took over as asst. to the coordinator in January 2005. His attention to detail, desire to get all the facts and figures straight with the various majors, and his relaxing demeanor make students' visits to his office positive experiences. John's commitment to high quality programming, and his wide-ranging vision have improved this experience for all.
Deb Vance and Gayle Driggers, Languages & Literature. As Chair of the Academic Senate Diversity Committee, I worked to bring Tim Wise to campus in September. Tim's visit, however, could not have happened without the assistance of the these two staff members. Deb was responsible for seeing the presentation got on the campus calendar, for helping me put together the poster to publicize his visit, and seeing that the paperwork and posters were picked up and delivered on time. Gayle has been responsible for shuffling the paper that paid Tim's fees and his travel expenses. She is STILL negotiating this process in Banner. I assumed the role chair of the committee without realizing it would make work for Gayle and Deb. But, great folks they are, they have not complained about the additional work. They are SUPERB!
Special Item! Random Act of Kindness
Jim Cuneo, father of Ferris student Nicole Cuneo, recently informed the Marketing and Communications that his daughter was on her way home to Big Rapids from Armada on Monday, Oct. 24, and stopped at a rest area near Big Rapids and found an abandoned dog with tags. After determining that the owners were no where in sight, Nicole decided to transport the dog to Big Rapids with her. She boarded the dog for several days while she made attempts to locate the owners. Much to her satisfaction, her research led her to the owners, who live about two hours south of Big Rapids. They were elated to have their "best friend" back home safe and sound.
October 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Cheytaya Brown, RA in Merrill/Travis, for all of her hard work and dedication to the lives of students at Ferris State University. In addition to the numerous events she has already planned this semester, she organized the "Play It Safe: Sex Olympics" event for Welcome Week and it was a tremendous success. All of the hard work she put into the event was astounding. She was able to creatively engage students in prevention discussions regarding sexuality and it was very well received---over 100 students attended. It never ceases to amaze us how talented, bright, and ambitious our students are. We just wanted to recognize her for being one of those students.
Andrea Perkins, RA in Brophy/McNerney, for her efforts in organizing the Pinata Party in collaboration with our Hispanic Heritage Month events. Andrea encouraged students in the residence halls to make a pinata, learn about the history of the pinata, and then work together to decorate the ROCK Cafe for the Hispanic Cuisine lunch on October 6th. We wanted to recognize her for her efforts in collaborating and planning such an amazing event. It is because of students like her that we are able to be successful at Ferris State University.
Ray Dickinson, librarian/professor, FLITE Archives and Special Collections. The displays he put together for FLITE to celebrate Constitution week were wonderful. Displays like that don't just happen, they take a lot of thought and time to prepare and I want him to know that his efforts were appreciated.
Cory Schult, student. I went over to Rankin Center to get a pop and realized that Quizno's didn't open until 10:00. It was close to 10:00 so I asked a student named Cory Schultz if I could just buy a pop and he said yes. Then he realized that the registers were not open and I needed exact change. I only had two dollars so he said, "give me a dollar and I have a quarter in my pocket and your all set." This was a generous gesture and I truly appreciate it.
Jeannette Seither, dish machine operator, MASCAR GRILLE. Jeannette has left her own work area and helped others in the kitchen, often, this fall. She has been a life saver. We could not have exceled without her. She has helped her fellow staff members and our customers with her professional and outstanding performance. Thank YOU Jeannette.
Megan Kroes, student employee, Business Office. She is always willing to help and with a smile on her face. She is just a darn good worker.
Scott Claerhout and the computer support staff, College of Business, deserve recognition for there good and good spirited work at the stressful start of the term. One of my classes needed a software program that had not been installed on the computers in the college of business. When I talked to him about my problem his major concern was how soon would the program be needed and whether they could meet that need. I told him that I would like to be able to use the software in about a week. He said that they would see what they could do. The next day they had provided a solution to the problem and we were able to use the software at my next class meeting. Thanks to Scott and everyone else in computer support for the job well and quickly done.
Faye Young, Tracy Schoner, Pat Patterson, Ginny Spedowske and Sandra Werner, Custodians. Everytime you turn around it seems that the same people volunteer for good causes and once again Residential Life Custodians Faye Young, Tracy Schoner, Pat Patterson, Ginny Spedowske and Sandra Werner have stepped forward. Together they have lead the way for others towards supporting Relay for Life and urged custodians and others to contribute to this worthy cause and have raised over $1,250 dollars towards this organization. They deserve a big Pat on the Back for all they do to help others in the community and on campus.
Lou Ann Kirkpatrick, student service representative, Admissions Office. You helped me get re-admitted into Ferris at the last minute so I could register for classes by the next day, 8/5/05. I would like to thank you for your helpfulness.
Ken Verrill, ATS-Sigma Team Technician, and Art Anderson, ATS Student Technician, for working tirelessly on the first day of classes to get specialized software up and running in a computer lab!!
Kristen Salomonson, assistant dean of Enrollment Services. Kristen has been very supportive and encouraging in my efforts to expand my role. She has taken the time to show me new programs and is always willing to help me out when I get stuck on something. I appreciate the trust and confidence Kristen has shown in my abilities and her faith in me when I take on some new duties this semester.
September 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Ben Upham, assistant professor, Automotive Service Technology. Ben helped register some of my students while I was attending a conference. Ben also has taken a lead in the details of obtaining NATEF recertification and dealing with applicants on the new faculty search committee. Ben is a great colleague to work with.
Sandy Morningstar, Purchasing Office. So many people are confused and/or stressed out about Banner and Sandy is on the front-lines for calls and questions. I know that I alone have had numerous questions and issues, and I'm sure that others were also calling Purchasing with the same kinds of things! She does what she can to make the turn-around time from requisition to purchase order as brief as possible and never seems annoyed that our department always needs things "right away." Through it all Sandy keeps her pleasant demeanor and takes all the stress projected onto her in stride.
Nancy Walcutt, student services representative, Office of Schlorships and Financial Aid. I would like to express the fact that we are very lucky to have Nancy working for our department. My husband and I were having dinner and one of out students that I have helped in the past was our waitress. She wanted me to know how grateful she was that I had referred her to Nancy Walcutt because she was awesome. She wanted to make sure that I thanked Nancy and said over and over how wonderful she was.
Josh Hayes, computer technician, Academic Technology Services, College of Education and Human Services. His readiness to tackle any issue that comes up is amazing and he always does this with professionalism and effeciency. We are very luck to have such great support.
Andy Butts, student computer techinician, ATS. For his help in an extremely time sensitive job. He was able to juggle his schedule and regular duties and put in extra time in order to get a database ready for Fall 2005 semester. He was under enormous time constraints and pretty much on his own, and Andy managed to get the database done early and even update the setup a little. He finished this up and never slacked on his everyday duties.
This past month, we had a *very* large project of disposing about a years worth of old computers. They all needed to be evaluated, recorded, packaged and shipped in a very short time frame. So most of the students from the TAC and Inventory, along with John Monahan and Gary Lutz, spent long days in those really hot July days doing all this work. The whole group worked as one well-organized team, and we recycled over 500 old monitors, 200 CPUs, 150 printers, and may other assorted parts and papers. It was amazing to see how much work they got done in a short amount of time.
I would like to give the following people pat on the back awards for their part in the process:
TAC students: Beth Garcia, Kari Kailing, Buck Rathbun, C. J. LaTourneau, Nathan Selby, Daniel Moellering, Darci Stevens, Jennie Balberde
Inventory Students: LaToya Pritchard, Amanda Myers, Ray VanReitte, Jeana Hamelund
ATS Students: Jacob Bouvrette, Joel Scott
From Delta/Gamma: Tricia Chambers, Matt Westerburg
From Sigma: Alex Petrovich, Jonathan Gore
August 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Fonda Kuzee, Physical Plant. Is always willing to help. She always has a positive attitude and she makes the rest of us glad to be part of the physical plant team. She did a terrific job putting together the Miappa Conference. Fonda is an important part of our team here at the Physical Plant.
Cindy Jackson, Payroll. I mainly dealt with her about my learning the Kronos system and all of the questions I had for her and e-mails that I sent, she NEVER got upset. She was extremely patient and very helpful.
The Payroll Team - What a wonderful team they have! I know they will continue their hard work and I truly appreciate what they do! Having sat through the session on how to enter in employees information on the new Kronos system, I left there feeling somewhat confident on how to do the task. But when I got in front of the computer, I felt a little lost. So many times I called Payroll or sent an e-mail, and EVERY time, the ladies there were so very kind, patient and quite understanding. Knowing how much stress these few ladies went through during the transition, and the extreme pressure they must have endured, I personally want to say thank you for the unbelievable job that they did!!
James A Lindsey, Enrollment Services. Jim makes all of the super signs that are used for Orientation and Dawg Days to guide people to the "right place" on campus. He also makes wonderful posters/banners for special events. He attends every Dawg Day that we have and takes pictures of the Guests, puts them together so they are ready to present to the student/family at the Dawg Day luncheon. He is currently working on a new scanning process for Admissions that will interface with the new Banner Computer System. Jim helps us to solve some "technical" computer problems at times and is always happy. I, and I'm sure many others, are thankful we have Jim and appreciate all that he does for FSU and the Admissions and Records office.
The Staff at the Rankin Center Coffee Shop. Always courteous, friendly, efficient, accommodating and CHEERFUL! They all do a great job and they would make Seattle's Best proud!
The Banner Training teams! - Linda Golden, Lisa Besemer, Beth Logan, Ed Dorman, Sheryl Love, Gina Knight, Patty Fraser. Your patience, know-how, organizational skills, informative emails and willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty IS noticed by some of your "trainees." I think you should all be taken on a two-week cruise when the training is over! Many thanks!
July 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Bruce Werner, technical services specialist, Student and Administrative Technology Services. For assisting with some MY FSU hurdles that occurred during the recent Kronos web implementation. Bruce provided the information required to speed up a process to ensure that there was a minimal waiting period in order to get a group of individuals activated so the process would not incur a longer disruption period. Bruce is to be commended for his help and the assistance that he gave.
Linda Knapp, custodian, Knollcrest Commons. For all her help with the Residential Life Staff and Dining Service summer custodians during the implementation of the new web based Kronos system. Linda took the time to assist these individuals with accessing MY FSU and the Kronos Web timekeeping system. Linda had the patience to assist many individuals who had little computer knowledge and overcame several obstacles in making sure that they could access the systems and have a working familiarity with the new process. Not only has Linda assisted with these processes, but she has assisted in training on the Custodial Order Form Process. Linda is always very supportive and always willing to assist and it is extremely appreciated.
Claudia Johnson, dining services. During Summer University, this trainee took the reins and put out three days of great quality product and didn't stress. I am very proud to have Claudia as a future employee of Ferris and know she has a lot to contribute!
Randy Stephan, custodian, Residential Life. In June he helped with the Janus Custodial Training Program held in Granger. Randy did an excellent job at training and is just a great all-around guy!! He is always willing to help everyone. Thanks.
Bruce Hammond, machine lab technician, Manufacturing Department. We needed a crucial part for one of our hand carts and were unable to get one from the manufacturer. Bruce was kind enough to make us two -- now we even have a spare! It's great to see different areas around Ferris helping each other! I truly appreciate his willingness to help! It is a huge blessing for our office to have these parts now!
Sue Mumby, student representative, Financial Aid. Sue Mumby was caught helping to keep the area outside the Timme Building spic and span! I'm glad she helps to keep Ferris looking tidy. We appreciate her help!
Jim Moore, custodian, Physical Plant. For his willingness to step up and help his fellow co-workers out when they need help. Way to Go, Jim! You rock! Thanks for always being there for us!
Ms. Linda Ferguson, custodian, Science Building. Ms. Ferguson has recently been assigned to work on the third floor of the Science Building. The quality of her work has clearly improved the status of the science third floor: classrooms are clean, floors are an improvement and she maintains a professional, pleasant and helpful demeanor in addressing our requests, and toward faculty, students and fellow co-workers. We are fortunate to have her with us. Your efforts, Linda, have not escaped our notice.
Will Duran and Steve Johnson, science equipment technicians, Instrument Repair. These two gentlemen are highly knowledgable and super competent in fixing and building all types of equipment. When an emergency arises, they will drop things that are not urgent and turn their full attention to fixing the instrument so it can be returned quickly to the classroom. Last April when an emergency occurred, they worked way after closing time and came in over an hour early the next morning to finish the repairs and returned the instrument before it was needed. This is dedication way and beyond the call of duty. It is people like Will and Steve that makes Ferris a GREAT place to work. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You are greatly appreciated.
June 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Mark Walton, assistant manager, Dining Services. I would like to nominate Mark for getting caught being kind. We fed a large group of young students and Mark, not being in his domain, stepped outside of his box, helped the students, refilled ice, checked on food, answered questions, and generally was a real plus for us.....thanks Mark!
Marie Cross, student service representative 2, Admissions and Records. Recently I applied for a new position here at Ferris which required copies of my original transcripts from both Ferris and Grand Rapids Community College. while I was at Grand Rapids Community College I was working towards an Associates Degree but recently found out I was 3 classes short, after talking to GRCC they suggested that I have my Ferris transcripts sent to them because they thought they would be able to transfer in credits to allow me to receive my degree. I talked with Marie and explained the situation to her and explained that I was under a tight deadline and she said that GRCC and Ferris had a fax agreement and that she would fax my transcripts right away, which she did. I checked with GRCC several times and they insisted they had not received them so I once again called Marie. She called GRCC and checked for me and found that they could not find my transcript so she faxed it to them again and then called me back to let me know that she had done this and that GRCC would process them right away. Marie went above and beyond to help me, because of her efforts GRCC has the transcript and has transferred in the credits and all is well. It is great to know that when you have a problem like this there are people that will do all they can to help you. The University as well as our students are lucky to have Marie.
Annette Erler, clerk typist, Physical Plant. For doing such a great job and projecting such a great attitude. She always takes the time to put the personal touch to everything she does. Also for helping out with the United Way lunches (making food and helping getting things ready).
Bill Ruppel, apprentice HVACR, Physical Plant. For making food and donating it for the United Way lunches. For having such a positive attitude and being so helpful.
Teresa Havens, clerk typist, Physical Plant. For making food and donating it for the United Way lunches. And for just being very helpful and having a great attitude. She is always willing to help and she does a great job.
Pepper Bonnett, mail coordinator, Mail Center. For making food and donating it for the United Way lunches. For just being very helpful and having a wonderful attitude. She is always willing to help and she does a wonderful job.
All Physical Plant staff for supporting the United Way lunches and helping make money for the different programs.
HVAC Shop, For making food and donating it to help make money for the United Way. Thanks for the help.
As you will see the following nominations are from an outgoing student: "I would like to nominate several people for this award. I hope that they will all receive the award, as they all are very deserving people who have helped me so much while I have been at Ferris. I am graduating this semester, and I just wish that I would have known about this award sooner so that I could have nominated these amazing people before now. Thanks!
First, Holly Price has really helped me to feel as if I am ready for graduate school. She was willing to be the advisor of the FSU Math, Computer Science, and Statistics Club, to write me recommendation letters on short notice, and to coach me on a poster session that I created this semester. These are only a few of the things that she has done. I will be forever indebted to her for sparking my interest in statistics.
Second, Ronald Shepler has taught me everything that I know about writing a mathematical proof. Every proof class that Ferris has to offer, I have taken with him. He has definitely been an inspiration to me, and has shown enthusiasm toward his students in every class that I have had him as a professor for. I am very grateful that he was willing to teach the Mathematical Modeling class this semester, even when we're not sure whether or not it was going to be offered or not due to lack of interest.
Third, Maude Bigford single-handedly convinced me to attend Ferris. I remember when I was a scared high school student visiting Ferris with my dad, and she just wrangled over to the Honors Program table. And before I knew it, she had sent me off to a tour of a residence hall. I would not have even agreed to go on that tour if it were not for Maude Bigford. I am very glad that she was so enthusiastic about trying to get me to attend Ferris.
Fourth, Jane Pole is one of the nicest people at Ferris. I am extremely happy that I got to work for her at the Academic Support Center. Although, I remember when she wouldn't hire me because I looked scared and nervous. And now that I recall, I probably did look scared and nervous. But I am thankful that Jane gave me a chance to tutor my friend mathematics, as it really helped me to become more outgoing, and meet a lot of people that I would not have met otherwise.
Fifth, Kent Sun is one amazing man. Yes, he is tough on his students, but he always has chocolate in his office, so it balances out. On a more serious note, Dr. Sun has done more than what was necessary to help me prepare for the Actuarial Science Exam. It is a hard exam, and because of the long hours that Dr. Sun has put in helping me prepare for the exam, I am confident that I will be able to pass it now. The confidence that Dr. Sun has given me to work independently is one skill that is not taught in the traditional classroom.
Sixth, Roy Gifford has been awesome in what he has done for the Ferris Mathematics Department this semester. I am glad that I was able to take a class with him, and get to know him, as he always is so friendly, and remembers all of his students names. Every student and their individual needs is important to him. He is very supportive of student involvement in the department, such as Ferris Math, Computer Science, and Statistics Club activities."
May 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Jeff Peticolas, staff support at the Automotive Center. Jeff is very helpful to faculty and cares about the students. Student workers learn a lot about vehicles and life from Jeff. He helps with accepting deliveries of heavy objects such as engines, finds places to store them and mounts them up on stands when we need them. Jeff has Ferris pride and deserves a pat on the back.
Debra Vance, secretary, Languages and Literature. Deb is doing an exceptional job with her extra responsibilities for administering the academic profiles to upper division writing classes. It is a challenge to encourage students to participate honestly in the surveys, and the task is quite time consuming. She has taken on this additional responsibility while at the same time continuing her normal responsibilities, such as preparing the Prism for publication and organizing the awards banquet, as well as the additional responsibility of managing the office and student workers.
Gayle Driggers, secretary, Languages and Literature. She is conscientious and more than willing to get all jobs done in a thorough manner. She often goes beyond her responsibilities and helps others with their tasks. Despite her heavy workload, Gayle is always ready with a smile and brightens the office with her enthusiasm. Gayle deals with all of her audiences, faculty, staff, and students with enthusiasm and kindness. She is a joy to work with.
Elzbeth MacIain, department secretary, Social Sciences. Quick, efficient, helpful, easy to work with.
Jill Gregory, department secretary, Plastics and Rubber Engineering Technology Dept. She has demonstrated her commitment to the plastics program in many ways. Most recently she declined to attend a "woman's" conference so she could participate in the Programs' advisory committee meeting. This dedication carries over to our students - many recognize her contribution and often give her small gifts or cards in appreciation. I can think of no one more desrving of a "Pat on the back" award. Thank you.
Annette Erler, clerical, Physical Plant and Dale Schoner, custodial, Physical Plant. Geez, here I go again! On April 8, I arrived at my office to find that a vandal had thrown a huge rock through my office window. There was broken glass everywhere! After filing a report with Public Safety, I called the Physical Plant for a clean up. Within half an hour, Annette Erler had managed to have someone here from United Glass to measure up for a new window; a carpenter to board up the opening; and Dale Schoner to clean my office. Dale spent nearly two hours picking up large pieces of glass and vacuuming up the shards and pulverized pieces. By the time he finished, there wasn’t even the smallest trace of evidence remaining. My greatest appreciation goes to both Annette and Dale for going well above and beyond the call of duty.
Julie Urick, clerical support, Academic Support Center. Julie is always upbeat and handles day to day interaction with students, faculty and staff in a professional, friendly manner. Julie has an approachable demeanor which is very important in her position. Julie adapts well in an ever changing environment and is always willing to take on tasks asked of her. Julie went above and beyond the call of duty the past several weeks to assist a co-worker in a time of need. Thanks, Julie, for all that you do that doesn't get recognized and thank you for being a part of the ASC team.
Becky Kowalkoski, educational counselor, and Liz Spedoske, secretary, College of Business. I feel they deserve this award because... ...A local high school student/admitted freshman contacted me requesting assistance with her fall class schedule because she was having back surgery in mid-June. She was unsure of what mobility she would have after surgery and was worried that she wouldn't be able to attend Orientation. Becky and Liz quickly reviewed the student's file and registered her for classes. They not only got her a schedule quickly, they also ensured that her classes were held in locations that would not require her to "sprint" across campus. Their dedication to assisting this student is wonderful and has eased the mind of this student tremendously! THANK YOU!!
Arlene Krellwitz, co-supervisor, Academic Support Center. Arlene has gone above the call of duty the past several weeks. She has offered encouragement and support and taken on added responsibilities without complaint. I appreciate the positive environment (with the added twist of humor) that she has created. Ferris State is fortunate to have such a dedicated employee and I am lucky to have Arlene as my colleague and friend.
April 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Kimberly Duncan, cook, Mascar Grille. She was recently denied vacation time due to the needs of Dining Services, and brought in peanut butter fudge for all of us. She has put in for vacation at other times when she had personal things to take care of, finished early with that stuff, came in to see me at work, and worked the day, because there was no one available to replace her shift. She has a wonderful attitude daily, gets along great with our students, both customers and employees, she goes the extra mile every day for us. I truly belief that she deserves a pat on the back for all that she does.
Jessica Rush, FLITE Health Sciences Librarian. Jessica is amazingly helpful and knowledgeable in her field. I sometimes contact her with rather sparce information concerning a text or need of mine or my students and she has always been able to fill them in a rapid and professional manner.
Tony Kettle, set-up coordinator, Rankin Student Center. Prompt, courteous, witty, organized and clear: that's Tony, and that is why he is a joy to work with!
Debra Cox, academic department head, Educational and Career Counseling Center. Excellent listener, creative problem solver, and conscientious to the max describes Deb.
Denise Barowicz, director, Labor Relations. Denise shows extreme professionalism and thoroughness in preforming her duties. She is also able to remain patient and courteous when dealing with people that pressure her for answers that she is not at liberty to share with them. I feel that Denise has a very thankless job and I would like to say "Thank you Denise for all that you do!!!"
Margaret Pawlowski, student worker, HVACR Institute. She always goes above and beyond in anything you ask of her. Margie is extremely busy with her studies and her involvement in the Rubber Group but she is always willing to adjust her schedule when possible to help us out. Margie has been featured in the Crimson and Gold Magazine in an article about women in rubber and plastics and does recruiting for the Rubber program also. Her enthusiasm for Ferris, the Rubber and Plastics Program and her job is obvious and it comes out in everything she does which I feel makes her perfect for a pat-on-the-back award.
Curt Pawlowski, student worker, HVACR Program, but helps us out with special projects here at the HVACR Institute. On March 04, 2005, the program office called and needed 200 recruitment booklets to be sent that afternoon to a trade show in Texas. The recruitment booklets have to be assembled and sealed in plastic before they are sent. Curt took it upon himself to walk in extremely cold weather from the Granger Center to our building on Maple street to get these books ready. His dedication to the HVACR Program and Institute went above and beyond what anyone could expect and that is why I think he deserves a pat-on-the-back award.
Steve Eichenberg, manager, HVACR Institute. He is the type of supervisor every employee hopes for. Steve is understanding and always encourages you to come up with creative ideas to increase business. He is the type of supervisor that empowers you to do the best job possible. Steve is always willing to help where needed...whatever it may be...a trade show, homecoming, recruitment or even something simple such as answering a phone or packing an order, he is always willing to help. He leads by being positive and that's what makes him an excellent candidate for this award.
Jason, student worker, computer support tech, Dining Services Administrative office. I always seem to present Jason with questions about my computer programs that he inevitably has to research and work out the problem. He is great about not giving up until the question or problem is solved. Jason performs his job with willingness, a positive attitude, and perseverance. I will certainly miss his help when he graduates from FSU!
Tammy Babcock, honors program assistant, Honors Program. She has amazing attention to detail, is friendly and courteous to all who enter her office, and has an unflagging zeal for honors and Ferris State.
Karen Lobdell, secretary, Developmental Programs and Curriculum. She is quick, efficient, conscientious and willing to get all jobs done in a thorough manner. She makes our lives easier because of her efficiency.
Jessica Rush, librarian, Reference and Instructional Services, FLITE. She has been there for me at all times. I can't count the number of times that I needed an article for my class or research that Jessica has assisted me in a timely manner. She uses all her resources to see to it that I have what I need whenever I call on her for help. Thanks Jessica!
Maryanne Priemer, student services representative, Timme Center. She has been very helpful and supporting to me and others. She knows her stuff!!!
March 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Raymond Gant, director, and Karyn Benner, college day-special program coordinator, Office of Minority Affairs. They traveled to Benton Harbor Charter School with members of the student organization known as T.O.W.E.RS. (“Teaching Others What Encourages Real Success.”) The three students – Vanita Sanders, Gail Taylor-Bolden, and Stacy Winchester – presented a dynamic program to approximately 100 4th through 8th graders. Each presenter gave a brief history of their family background and real-life challenges that they faced in getting a high school and a college education. The very poignant messages delivered by the presenters were both comedic and serious while stressing the importance of self-discipline, focus, and commitment for these students to continue their education. At the conclusion of the students’ program, Mr. Gant and the Team met with the teachers for an additional hour to reinforce the importance of fostering a caring and rich learning environment to help students develop their individual sense of self-worth. Our special thanks and appreciation go Raymond, Karyn, Vanita, Gail, and Stacy for the time they spent with Benton Harbor Charter School students and teachers.
Jean Vallier, Student Service Rep, Timme Center, because she has a great attitude and has helped me with numerous problems, getting loans and aid I needed.
Jon Shaffer, associate director of housing, and Thomas Adams, public safety officer. These men went way beyond the 'call of duty' to assist a student and other university offices. They volunteered hours of their own time AFTER already completing the day's work in order to provide assistance to a student in need when no alternatives could be found. They simply stepped forward--I'm sure there were many other things they might have enjoyed doing with that time--instead they 'contributed' a few hours of their lives to help someone else--a student here at FSU.
Shelly VandePanne, coordinator FSUS and UC registration. Shelly is a very special lady. She encourages students, faculty, and staff to recognize their potential. She is never too busy to listen and offer advice in a very subtle way when it is requested. She lives by and practices the Golden Rule. She is such a pleasure to work with. Thank you, Shelly, for being such an exemplary role model.
Joan Totten, academic department head, Dev. Prog and Curr. Joan is the BEST and GREATEST boss ever. She is so caring, understanding, encouraging, and compassionate. I have the privilege to work for an EXCELLENT supervisor. Thank you, Joan, for being so wonderful and an exceptional leader.
William Potter, dean of University College. Dr. Potter deserves a pat-on-the-back award for the Ferris pride he exhibits. He leads by going "Above and Beyond" in everything he does. You always leave him with a good feeling about yourself. Thank you, Dean Potter, for your leadership.
Heather M. Bandeen, coordinator for Northern Region Education Teacher Programs and Field Experiences. For a sincere pat on the back. She started me back toward my education goals, and greased the wheels to make it happen. She is a bright star in the galaxy of stars that I meet through Ferris.
Troy Tissue, coordinator of recruitment. On February 3, we held a New Student Reception for over 200+ people in Grand Rapids. At the last minute, the major presenter got sick and couldn't give the one-hour presentation. Troy stepped in, like the trooper he is, and gave the presentation as though he had done it many times before. Awesome job!
Kevin Jackson, and Jim White, Physical Plant custodial. I recently had a work related issue, and these two men went above and beyond to make sure these issues were handled, I would like to thank them for being there. People like this really make a difference in the work place.
Mike Miklusicak, Brad Havel and Calvin Schalk, Info. Serv./Tele.; Craig Roach, Tele.; Tom Jackson and Dave Syckle, Acad. Tech. Serv.; Mike Johnson, Stud. and Admin. Tech. Serv.; Melissa Wilkinson and Annette Jackson, Dent. Hyg. Clinic.
With a customer service oriented team approach for solving on-going Dental Clinic software application issues. Many hours were spent by these staff members, to attain stability in the PPM application for the Dental Clinic. Mike Miklusicak coordinated the efforts of all of the people listed and provided the technical expertise and strategic direction. This project would not have been successful without Mike's guidance, coordination, and leadership.
Craig Roach and Calvin Schalk assisted in efforts to isolate the Dental Clinic network. Brad Havel, Mike Johnson, and Tom Jackson assisted with the Microsoft Server setup for the database. Mike Johnson and Dave Syckle addressed workstation configuration issues so that the computers for data entry worked properly.
Rebecca Kowalkoski, educational counselor, College of Business. Becky has put so much time in helping us to improve our checksheets and has/is working very hard with all of our faculty to make sure the COB students are getting the very best advising possible. Becky goes out of her way to help solve problems and create positive solutions. We want to say THANK YOU and let her know how much we here in BUS 212 appreciate her.
Sherry Standen, Linda Reed, Marsha Longbrake, Allissia Byle and Jacque Campau, Admissions and Records Office "transcript team" for their hard work through a tough week of training and adjustment. All met the challenge with positive attitudes and open minds. Their hard work and dedication to accurate transcript entry only helps to improve the forward steps we are taking toward better student service.
Debbie Carley, coordinator, Study Abroad. Always professional, always pleasant, great promoter of the various Study Abroad programs, very conscientious and easy to work with.
Judy Mitchell, custodian, Hallisy Hall. The Admissions Office keeps one suite of rooms in Hallisy to show visiting prospective students and families how a residence hall looks. I recently found out that Judy has been taking the time to make sure the rooms stay presentable; mopping up the mud and dirt left behind by the daily tour traffic.
Janet Bowman, Honors Program staff support. Janet always has a smile on her face, is totally customer-oriented, patient and kind. She is very conscientious in her work and dives into any task given to her, even if it is something she has never done before - she figures it out and likes to troubleshoot. She never complains and is a very positive person. "Don't know how to do" or "can't do" is not in her vocabulary. What is in her vocabulary is, "Well, I've never done that before, but I can figure it out" and she always does and takes off flying. We are lucky to have her working for us.
Julie Doyle, coordinator, hospitality programs and Raymond Gant, director, Minority Affairs. Julie and Raymond are to be commended for their willingness to "pitch in" and be flexible when the dinner speaker for the recent FLEX conference was stranded in Philly and unable to get to Big Rapids. Raymond stepped in as presenter, receiving great evaluations by the students and Julie was totally willing to change the time of her presentation in an attempt to allow the original speaker to arrive. Thanks to you both for helping to ensure the success of this great event!
Glenn Zobel, moving coordinator. Thank you so much for your "can do" attitude and flexibility! Especially when it comes to troubleshooting for the major events we hold on campus. You are very much appreciated!
Mike Kelly, Physical Plant, Auto Mechanic, and Teresa Havens, Physical Plant, Clerk Typist. Mike always has time to do some little thing to the Charter Schools office's assigned vehicle on very short notice so that the CSO staff will have a safe and pleasant trip. Mike has always been pleasant and accommodating in that regard and the CSO staff appreciates it. I would like to formally say thank you to Mike. Teresa is always accommodating and helpful when the CSO needs an extra motor pool vehicle. She makes every effort to be sure that the vehicle is one that will meet our needs. She is aware that many of our trips are into urban areas of cities and that we need good reliable transportation. I want to say, "Thank You, Teresa."
Jane Pedelty and her employees at the Copy Center came through for me again. They received the syllabi for our department (9 faculty) on the Friday before classes started and they were in our office by noon on Monday. Now that is great service. They make my job so much easier. Thanks!
February 2005, Nominator's Comments:
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 levelled to make way for Granger Center. Everytime 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, Technoloy 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 Languages and Literature 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.
January 2005, Nominator's Comments:
Scott Atwell, Librarian. "Our office recently needed to obtain a copy of a video tape for training purposes and we thought we could check it out from the library (we don't do this kind of thing very often and we were unsure of the procedure). Scott spent 20 minutes with us searching through the library records to try to find the video. When he could not find it he did not send us away, he went a step further and made a call to Media Distribution (it never occurred to us that there was more than one place to get that tape on campus!) and helped us to obtain the tape. He was patient, kind and genuinely helpful and we want to make sure he is recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty. Thank you Scott!"
Susan McNamara, Writing Center, for the excellent tutoring she does with students. "Susan invests her full self in helping others - even to the point of going outside her job duties to help students learn and succeed. While all the tutors in the Writing Center and Academic Skills Center deserve a pat on the back for their dedication to helping others, Susan deserves an extra measure of thanks this semester for her hard work."
Randy Shanks and Jennifer Thede, SATS, for their work on "making sure the FSU Traverse City office was up and ready for registration when they came back from the holiday break. Northwestern MI College had made a change in their computer system which would not allow Ferris to use their network for printing. Between the hard work from Jennifer to get a printer to Traverse City in a very short time frame and Randy's ability to get everything set up with NMC and making a trip there to set up the new printer, they were able to limit the downtime in the Traverse City office to an hour."
Phil Balliet, Custodian, Granger Center. "The reason why is kind of funny and serious at the same time. Last Thursday night at Granger Center I had to use the restroom and during the flush my keys fell in the toilet. I called Campus Police and dispatch called a plumber. Phil called my cell and told me not to let anyone else go in there and flush any toilets just in case they were still in the line. He used the snake but that didn't retrieve them so then he removed the toilet from the wall and reached in the line in the wall to see if he could grab them. I was lucky because I was on the end of the line and if the toilets had been flushed one more time my keys would have been gone forever. Phil managed to retrieve my keys thank goodness and he is my hero."
Diane Griffin and Donna Smith. "Diane is an SLA Facilitator and noticed in week 15 that one of the students who attends her SLA workshop didn't appear to be feeling well. Diane approached the student and was told by the student that she was in renal failure. The student told Diane that she didn't want to go home (many hours away) to begin the lengthy treatment because she wanted to finish the semester. Diane was concerned for the student and the student's attitude to remain here instead of getting treatment. We contacted Donna Smith (the student's advisor) to alert her of the student's health and to see what we could do for her. Donna has contacted many people to help this student physically and academically. Michael Carines, Paul Sullivan, and Rick Kowalkoski were also involved in helping her."
"This student was going to remain here until Monday of finals week, but unfortunately she is not doing well and has left campus. People are working on getting her "incompletes" in her classes. I wonder if this student may have gone undiscovered until the problem was much bigger if it were not for Diane. I also am so grateful that Donna contacted the right people so quickly. We still don't know if this student is going to be "ok" or not, but If it were not for Donna and Diane (and others), I hate to think what the possible outcome may be. It's wonderful to work at a university with such caring people."
Danette Boyd, Dental Hygiene, for "taking over many of my work responsibilities while I was out on medical leave for 6 weeks this semester. I know this added responsibility has caused her a bit of stress as she has had to maintain her own work schedule."
December 2004, Nominator's Comments:
Stan Vallier, Dining Services (Second month in a row! Sorry Stan you don't get another t-shirt.) Stan exemplifies the Boy Scout motto: semper paratis, as he is always prepared. He has a great attitude, has tremendous attention to detail, aims to please and is full of energy. He makes a difference!
Nina Davis, administrative secretary to the Dean of University College. Nina is quick, organized, returns calls promptly, is gracious to all who contact her and is very detail-oriented.
Kathy Lake, interim director, Enrollment Services. Kathy is very accommodating, helpful, composed and understanding. Her calm demeanor and quick response have been a wonderful help to faculty and students as they try to navigate the ins and outs of scholarships and financial aid.
Tyrone Collins, admissions counselor, Minority Student Affairs Office. We would like to nominate Tyrone, for his dedication to Ferris State University and continued support of our Martin Luther King, Jr./Cesar Chavez/Rosa Parks College Day Program. Tyrone is always there when we need him volunteering advice, words of wisdom and genuine support to the youth we provide service to. He has an incredible talent of connecting to any audience and can relate to every one of our participants in a way that really drives the message "you can do this" to all within earshot. As audience members, we have the opportunity to get the feedback he often misses, as well as the numerous "preach on" comments. So, Tyrone, we give you the ULTIMATE pat on the back! Thank you for all that you do!
Jane Pole and Arlene Krellwitz, co-supervisors, Academic Support Center. I have been off work most of the last month due to health issues (I'm the clerical support for our department). Jane and Arlene have been so kind and so understanding during this time. They also took on most of my responsibilities while I was away. I know this was a real challenge for them, too. (This was on top of the fact that our stats program had a complete nervous breakdown during the same time - our stats program does everything, from check-in of appts. to statistical reports for the center) All of this with never a complaint!
If we had an "Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award" they would more than deserve it. They surely deserve a pat on the back at the very least! They were very supportive of me and only wished for my quick recovery. Never once complaining or letting me think I was letting them down by missing so much work. They never once allowed me to think my job was in jeopardy, in fact, they made sure I knew that it wasn't. They jumped right in and took over, doing whatever jobs of mine needed to be done. I know it wasn't easy. I'm so very fortunate to have them for my bosses and so very grateful for their understanding and willingness to do what needed to be done to allow me to get through this.
Sigrid Robertson, secretary, School of Education - Teacher Education. Sigrid started as a new secretary in our department almost two years ago...and she inherited a mess! Although she had a tremendous learning curve, a huge backlog of past due work...she has systematically learned the trade and the department is back to running efficiently. We truly appreciate what she does!
November 2004, Nominator's Comments:
Debbie Lunsted, Student Services Rep. Student Employment & Career Services. Deb worked at the job fair for about 9 hours, which is incredibly draining physically and mentally. After returning to the office, about 5 p.m. she received a phone call from an employer panicking because he left his briefcase at the job fair and he was almost to Grand Rapids before he realized his mistake. Although it added an hour to an already long day, Debbie agreed to be here at 6 p.m. to return it to him when he arrived. The gentleman was very pleased that Debbie would do this and also thankful as the briefcase contained his keys and wallet.
Susan Jones, professor, Marketing Department. She is always willing to help and goes out of her way to assist you anyway she can. Recently Professor Jones and her ADVG 375 Class worked with us here at the HVACR Institute to help us develop a new marketing plan. She went above and beyond to help us and the results were fantastic! More recently Professor Jones has agreed to work with the HVACR Institute and Department to help us develop new marketing/recruitment material for the HVACR Department and in addition she has also agreed to use the HVACR Department as a class project winter semester. In my opinion Professor Jones is a terrific example of what can be accomplished when different divisions and programs work together. Her willingness to help anyway she can and her enthusiasm for both her profession and Ferris make her a very valuable assist to the Ferris Community.
Tom Overholser and Lee Ann Martin, The Rock Cafe, Mark Arnold, Westview Dining, Laura Seay, The Pug & CDR, Stan Vallier and Brenna Kelley, Catering. For the "outstanding job this fall on getting their intents done and turned in and their people paid on time. This is the first year in the 20 years that I have been here that I did not have a "single" crossoff the first big pay for fall. They have all gone the extra mile to make sure that their part has been done and it has certainly made my life simpler since they are both large employing areas. I know that Payroll is just a small amount of their job but that it requires a lot of time on their part."
Mike Troupe, Building Systems Energy Management Technician, Physical Plant. Every time we have questions and if we just need him to check something out he is always good about answering our questions and taking care of it. He is always checking the temperatures in the buildings via the computer to help the HVAC guys. We really appreciate him.
Kimberly Raymond, department secretary and Deb Tice, account clerk, Automotive Center. In this pressure cooker environment of scheduling, bills, ordering, tours, and helping 400+ students, they press on with excellence. They are short staffed and do more than they have to. On behalf of all automotive faculty and students I would like to say a big thank you! Our programs work because you two do.
Mike Johnson, Lori Rendel, Randy Shanks, Paul Heidemann, Bruce Werner, Jennifer Thede, Andy Rayburn, Keith Baumgartner, Chris Pommerenke, Josh Geha, Matt Trombley, Daven Danielson, Steve VanWasshenova, Coban Holmes, Christina Truman, Leah Chalmers, Heather Balash, Angela Reedy, Devan Smiley, Sidney Eaton, Brian Dornbush, Chip Bowden, Kevin Lee, Eli Snook, John Duman, Eric Merillat, Mike Rizzo, Calvin Schalk, Jim Cook, Craig Roach. With a customer service oriented team approach, many hours by the students and full-time employees of the Student & Administrative Technology Services department and other technical staff, Kwik Konnect 2004 was huge success! Through each phase the team has worked tirelessly to deliver a product that is second to none. Phase One involved creating a CD which would ensure that each machine to be connected to the Ferris network had up-to-date patches and anti-virus definitions. Phase Two was spent assisting students in their rooms in getting their computers to successfully connect to the network, during this two week time (after regular work hours) we were able to assist over 500 students to access our network. Phase Three has been spent in working on all of those student machines which required more extensive technical assistance which was found at the SATS office. Many thanks.
October 2004, Nominator's Comments:
Melanie Buffin, head cook, Mascar Grille. She has the ability to step into any position and make it happen; that truly is an asset in the kitchen. As the head cook at Mascar Grille she is my right and left hand.I truly appreciate all she does for me and our customers.
Dr. Robert Buckingham, director of clinics, Optometry. On the evening of Sept. 15 Bob was walking to his car from Pennock Hall, leaving work around 8 pm. He stopped by the intramural fields to say hello. Then, although still dressed in his suit, he volunteered to play intramural softball with some of his optometry students whose team was short by a couple of players. Only changing his shoes, Bob played softball (rather well) in a shirt and tie on a dusty field, then in the rain. He hung in there through the whole game. His students really appreciated his willingness to help out and stick it out under such adverse conditions.
Mary Kay MacIver, assistant director, Alumni Relations. Mary Kay is always upbeat, energized, and can be counted on to handle the job(s), whatever it is, no matter how many different directions she is pulled. She has a beautiful smile (and isn't afraid to use it) and is a joy to work with. Keep up the good works MK!
Cindy Horn, interim director, Student Leadership and Activities. She deserves a Pat on the Back Award for her endless smiles, optimism and encouragement to others. No matter how crazy things get, she always finds the silver lining in the cloud, she keeps her cool and makes a positive out of a negative situation. Thank you, Cindy H!!!
Sue and Tom Isabell, custodians, Automotive Center. The building is the cleanest it has ever looked since I have worked here. They both far exceed what they have to do. Sue and Tom are shining examples of Ferris pride!
Jan Anderson, departmental secretary, HVACR. Jan is an awesome asset to the HVACR Department!
Debby Buck, secretary level III, Center for Teaching, Learning & Faculty Development. More than once I have watched as Debby has taken the responsibility to take care of tasks that no one else wanted to deal with. While I don't work with Debby directly, she recently provided assistance to our department by working to remedy a situation that she had nothing to do with. She put quality first, and did so with decorum. I know that Debby worked diligently to keep things running in the CTL&FD during the first week of school. Watching her work hard then and now made me feel that Debby has earned a Pat-on-the-back, which is why I felt it was important to submit a nomination so she can receive some well-deserved recognition.
I would like to nominate Dawn Young, student, Cindy Greenwood, student activities coordinator, and the rest of Entertainment Unlimited, the Finance Committee of Student Government and the Office of Student Leadership & Activities for all the hard work they put into the Chris Cagle Concert. Cagle had a huge draw and added immensely to the attendance count and overall feel of the Football Frenzy. For some reason they were overlooked when all the sponsorships and thank yous were given, but they are truly deserving of a great big thank you and a giant Pat on the Back!!!
Matt Kuspa, third floor RA, West Masselink. For cleaning up floods whenever it rained since school started and the roof finally got repaired. It was appreciated by everyone in the building.
Fonda Kuzee, interim manager, General Services, Annette Erler, clerk typist, GEN SER, Kim Kleeves, clerk typist, GEN SER, Deb Savides, Storage/Recycling. These ladies help keep the Physical Plant operating smoothly. Without these ladies, we would be lost. They always have positive attitudes and are friendly to everyone who needs assistance. They are appreciated!!
Thomas Jackson, computer technician, BTC. Tom developed the COFe system (Custodial Order Form electronic) and continues to support the system from time to time due to server changes and needs which is above and beyond his current position. Tom is always willing to discuss improvement to the system and assist to maintain the integrity of the process. Tom promotes and portrays quality improvements and pride in his department of expertise and the custodial staff is thankful for the assistance he provides continually.
Sara Dew, student loan coordinator, Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. She is so dedicated to her job; so much depends on her. An extreme amount of responsibility is put upon here and she takes action and makes sure that everything is always running smoothly. Good job Sara!
Bonnie Thebo, student financial services coordinator, Business Operations. She is always concerned about how things are going to turn out and she tries so hard to make sure everything's gets completed by the end of the day (which ends a little later than a lot of other people.) She is dedicated enough to show up early to get stuff done or stay a little later than usual too. She cares about the students and what happens to them; that in itself makes her a good employee. She deserves some recognition once in a while. Good job Bonnie!
September 2004, Nominator's Comments:
Ray (Shorty) Hall, Custodian, College of Business. We want him to know how much we appreciate him. Our offices always look great! As a matter of fact our whole building looks great. We have all the COB birthday parties in our suite of offices and we get pretty messy sometimes and Shorty never complains about cleaning up after us. Thanks, Shorty.
Karen Blanzy, Media Production. It is difficult to put into words the pleasure it is to work with Karen as FSU's Graphics Designer (she replaced Jeff Ek). Karen is very customer-friendly and oriented and works diligently to understand exactly what her customers want so that they receive just what they request--this particular quality is extremely important to customers like me who frequently have a concept but not the final product in mind. Another quality that makes her such an asset to FLITE and FSU is her flexibility. The way she juggles projects and responsibilities to ensure that deadlines for top priority projects are met is just short of miraculous--the icing on the cake is that the customer's top priority becomes her top priority; how she manages this major feat is beyond me. FLITE Administrative Services determined to award past members of the FLITE Leadership Team with certificates for their participation on one of FLITE's most important and demanding committees. Within a day, Karen had designed the certificates, obtained the necessary information for completing individual awards, and produced a flawless final product for distribution to award recipients at a building-wide gathering the following day. The posters, signs, and banners her unit produces for projects across campus are professional and top-quality. If you haven't had an opportunity to make use of Media Production and its crew, you have no idea of what you are missing. That unit offers several different formats (signs, posters, postcards, CDs, tapes, etc.) to support the University's educational programs and faculty/staff/student projects. Again, my sincere appreciation to Karen (and the rest of the Media Production crew) for all her hard work and friendly service.
Patti Gum, Student Employee, Public Safety. She is extremely skillful and dedicated in performing various office duties in our office. Patti is a great asset and we will miss her when she graduates. Without her help we would not be able to keep our office running. Thanks, Patti!
Andrew Langenderfer, Technology Assistance Center. His terrific customer service brought about a wonderful accomplishment of dispatching a technician from a different consortia to load software for someone that was out of her office in a training environment. Hats off to Andrew for making sure the job gets done.
Linda Ferguson, Terry Dawson, Rob Doering, Jeff Morey, Tammy Narloch, Jeff Warner, Jodi Nelson, Val Harley, Pam Marvel, Marlene Jehnsen, Jason Gaffney, Denise Wild, Dan Sims, Karen Martin, and Frank Mondrella, Custodians, Physical Plant. On July 13th there was heavy rain fall causing extensive flooding.
Everyone worked great as a team to tackle this flood. Some custodians came out of their own areas to lend a hand; and some worked thru their breaks to get the job done. Their initiative and team work greatly minimized the damage that could have occurred. It is this kind of dedication that makes Ferris the great university that it is.
Greg Vodry, Linda Ferguson, Dan Sims and Jason Gaffney, Custodians, Physical Plant. These individuals offered to help out with the last Custodial/ Aerial Lift Training sessions their willingness to help greatly improved the training sessions. They did an excellent job!
Jerry Sholl, Media Production. Jerry spent quite a bit of time this summer photographing the manipulative collection FLITE is housing for the College of Education Early Childhood students. These "toys" range from puppets to rubber critters to a Goldilocks "big book", and the photographs help not only with the cataloging of these unusual items, but thumbnails will be added to our "library catalog" so that students can see the actual material they will be borrowing. Thumbs up to Jerry for a wonderful job!
Eva Copija, Teacher & Coordinator, Intensive English Program, Office of International Affairs. Eva is one of the most reliable persons with whom I have had the pleasure to work in my 35 years of educational experience. She coordinates all the the IEP programs and trips as well as counsels our international students. She is greatly concerned about their welfare and academic progress and successfully aids students with a variety of their problems as they adjust to FSU life and Big Rapids. Eva is an invaluable resource in the Office of International Affairs and in the Intensive English Program.
Cathy Andrews, Heather Youngs, Maryanne Priemer, Chris Higley, Nina Jones, Jean Vallier, Deb Griffith, Barb Rice, Cheryl Richardson, and Laurie Kilbourne, Timme Center for Student Services. We would like to recognize these employees for their extraordinary efforts put forth during the beginning of Fall rush. Colleagues and patrons alike offer their sincerest gratitude for the hard work, dedication, and positive attitudes exhibited by you all.
Julie MaGinnis, Student Employee, Timme Center for Student Services. Julie has been on the "front line" this summer at CSS and is always upbeat, professional and very helpful as she works with the seemingly endless line of students that are trying to tie up these "lose ends" for attending FSU. Thanks Julie!
August 2004, Nominator's Comments:
Sam Fattore, Admissions & Records, for his 'voluntary' web development recently performed for the nonprofit organization, Michigan Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (MACRAO). Sam has completed a web page project for the MACRAO New Professional's Workshop committee; thus allowing 'on-line' registration, payment verification, and automated correspondence to prospective workshop attendees with regards to an upcoming training event. These capabilities save countless committee man-hours and enhance customer satisfaction with the registration process. I would like to ensure the Ferris community is aware of Sam's professional contribution and support towards our collective efforts to place FSU as a leader within the collegian community.
Donna Cook, The Pug, Rankin Student Center. I've seen her on quite a few occasions approaching people in the Pug with the friendliest smile to welcome them to the Pug and ask if they had been there before--she can sure pick out the newcomers! I'm sure the majority of these are parents and students here for Orientation and she patiently explains what the Pug has and how the ordering system goes. She is just so cheerful and pleasant--she just makes Ferris shine!
Jacob Hewitt/HoltAssistant, Office of International Affairs. He is one of the most reliable persons I have ever employed. We can always count on him to take on new projects and complete them in a timely manner. He works well independently as well as with the team in our office. Jacob interacts with students from all over the world. He answers questions regarding community and campus operations (i.e. banking, class registration, etc.). The students find him personable and enjoy his participation in activities and appreciate his patient assistance as they adapt to FSU and Big Rapids. He has taken on a leadership role during new international student orientation, which is held at the beginning of each semester. He provides useful insights into improving the administration of orientation. He demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills with a variety of cultures and ages. He is a tremendous resource in the Office of International Affairs.
David Robison(Custodial), for all the extra things you do for us and making the College of Pharmacy shine. For all the little things that you might think go unnoticed or unappreciated - we do appreciate and we do notice! For your exceptional sense of humor that will bring a smile to anyone's face. We thank you Dave - for everything!
Amy (Wencl) Nawrot, Student Employee, Timme Center for Student Services. She has constantly shown that she can be relied on to carry out any task needed to get the job done. Amy works directly with a number of staff as well as the students and parents that come to the counter or call the Timme Student Services area. She takes initiative to do what needs to be done without being asked and always goes the extra mile to make sure that she is helping to meet the needs of everyone she comes in contact with. Amy also does all of this with a positive and cheerful attitude and a smiling face. GOOD JOB AMY!!!!
Jason Cook, Student Employee, College of Technology. Jason took on the task of reorganizing the Mechanical Engineering Technology storage areas this summer as a part time employee. He functioned very well with little supervision. The results of his efforts have made equipment, supplies, and tools easier to find. More expensive equipment can now be stored in a secure area. He has freed up space in the storage rooms as well. Super job!
