From Christina, VP of HR: Congratulations Sherri Reese and Amy Holda – Selected for TIAA Emerging Leaders Network

Two of our Human Resources stars – Sherri Reese, Ph.D., Director of Talent, and Amy Holda, an MLRHR, Interim Director of Employee Relations – are embarking upon an extraordinary leadership adventure.

Sherri and Amy have secured spots in the esteemed TIAA Emerging Leaders Network Program and are thrilled to receive such high praise and nomination from HR leadership. This career-defining journey was carefully curated by Chief Human Resources Officers from some of TIAA’s largest institutional partners; here, only the cream of talent prepares themselves to embark upon new horizons and larger roles.

Sherri and Amy, among a cohort of peers from institutions nationwide, will be expanding their professional networks while diving deep into HR’s latest offerings and perfecting their leadership acumen. MSU has made waves in HR leadership. Their success stands as evidence that our university remains dedicated to thought leadership and strategic partnership in HR; not just on an internal level but regionally and nationally too.

Let’s show our support for Sherri and Amy by offering Spartan cheers. Please join me in honoring their incredible achievement.

Sherri and Amy: Here’s to all of us, MSU, and reaching new heights together!

With Spartan Pride,
Christina

Christina K. Brogdon, PHR (she/her/hers)
Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
Michigan State University

Congratulations to Sarah Ellis, the 2023 Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award Recipient!

Congratulations to this year’s winner of the Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award, Sarah Ellis! This award honors a support staff employee who goes “above and beyond” in their job at MSU while pursuing a graduate degree concurrent with their employment. Sarah is the Admissions and Academic Services Manager for the Eli Broad College of Business MBA Program. She has been with MSU for 6 years and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Customer Experience Management from Michigan State University.

Sarah’s leaders and colleagues have this to say about her:

“Sarah is a talented, dedicated, and thoughtful team member, who consistently goes above and beyond to help students, colleagues, faculty, and staff both in her unit and across campus. She is known as a reliable, highly competent professional who is patient, kind, organized, and reliable. Sarah can always be counted on to do her job with effective excellence.”

“There is no better example of Sarah’s ‘above and beyond’ approach than the work she did to support our students, staff, and faculty during COVID. She coordinated multiple, diverse tasks while we were constantly shifting and adjusting our work as circumstances warranted. Sarah was a key ingredient to our ability to be successful.”

“Sarah is ultimately responsible for elevating all our internal processes, and our outward-facing communications, events, and corporate relationships—beyond the highest of MSU’s standards. Her time in the EMBA program has resulted in consistent climbs in our rankings and uncountable word-of-mouth referrals. I cannot imagine a more deserving leader at MSU than Sarah Ellis for this award, and I would love to see the recognition that all her long hours have contributed towards.”

Watch a video of Sarah finding out she won the Ruth Jameyson Award below or on YouTube:

The Awards Ceremony

Thank you to photographer Dane Robison for taking beautiful photos during the ceremony! All photo credits: Dane Robison/TimeFramePhoto

On May 15, Sarah was honored at an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center for the Ruth Jameyson and Jack Breslin award winners. MSU Interim President, Teresa K. Woodruff, Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, Christina K. Brogdon, Executive Vice President for Administration, Melissa Woo, and Award Selection Committee Chairman, Ray Gasser acknowledged Sarah’s hard work and expressed their gratitude during the ceremony. A recording of the event is available below or on YouTube:

About the Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award

This annual award recognizes a support staff member who most closely exemplifies the contributions, personal characteristics, and commitment to MSU demonstrated by Ms. Jameyson, going “above and beyond” what is reasonably expected to support the mission of MSU. In recognition of Ms. Jameyson’s own pursuit of a graduate degree while working at MSU, the award recipient must be pursuing a graduate degree at MSU or elsewhere concurrent with their employment at MSU.

Ms. Ruth Jameyson, who died in 2007 at the age of 100 years, served as the secretary to MSU President Robert S. Shaw from 1938 to 1941 and secretary/administrative assistant to President John A. Hannah from 1941 to 1969. She served as both greeter and gatekeeper to the numerous students, faculty and staff seeking to meet Dr. Hannah, as well as dignitaries from around the globe. Ms. Jameyson accepted roles and responsibilities far beyond her formal job description. Having arrived in Lansing with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Coe College, Iowa, Ms. Jameyson pursued a master’s degree in economics at MSU while working full-time.

This award has been created and funded by friends of Ruth Jameyson; Barbara Sawyer-Koch, MSU trustee emerita, and Donald F. Koch, MSU professor emeritus.

Thank you to Cheeney Media Concepts for all video recordings. All video credit: cmc2.tv

Congratulations to the 2023 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winners!

The Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award honors six MSU support staff members annually. Colleagues submit nominations of individuals who demonstrate the qualities of Jack Breslin, who served MSU as a student leader, honored athlete, top administrator, and steadfast advocate, personifying the “Spartan Spirit.”

Congratulations to this year’s winners, Kaye Boucher, Randy Klevickas, Healther Lenartson-Kluge, Megghan Seidel, Coreena Spitzley, and James Williams! These recipients display excellence in their job performance, supportive attitude, and contributions to MSU. On May 15, they were honored at an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center for both the Ruth Jameyson and Jack Breslin award winners.

Watch a recording of the event below or on YouTube:

You can learn more about each Jack Breslin award recipient below.

Kaye Boucher

Kaye Boucher is the Human Resources Manager in the College of Veterinary Medicine and has been in her role for ten years. She is known for her hard work, dedication, and outstanding interpersonal skills. Kaye facilitates and supports the HR decision-making process of the dean, department chairs, HR admins across the college, and supervisors. She is the college go-to for all personnel and supervisors facing challenges or needing advice due to her active listening skills, empathy, and conflict resolution. Here is what her colleagues had to say about her:

“Ms. Boucher is a crucial member of the CVM leadership team, and a proactive, creative, and strategic leader in developing and championing the CVM human resources goals. She consistently displays a balance of tact, compassion, and firmness in addressing CVM teams. She is a selfless leader; someone who personally sacrifices for the well-being of others and for the whole of the college. She is thoughtful and strategic, and she understands and advocates for the values that each department and individual contributes to the college.”

“Kaye is not afraid to tear down silos and identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies. She is frequently identifying long-standing tasks that could be done better and plays an active leadership role in effecting that change. This is most notable in her willingness to assess practices and processes that directly relate to her area that she may have even had a hand in developing, eagerly looking for ways to hone her craft and improve the situation for the good of the college and MSU.”

“Kaye Boucher has been a keystone in the growth and success of the College of Veterinary Medicine, providing not just the best and latest HR information to our faculty, staff, and students, but she has done so in the most humane way, creating a culture of mutual support and compassion which we all strive to emulate.”

Randy Klevickas

Randy Klevickas is a Farm Manager in the Department of Forestry and has served MSU for nearly 45 years. His career as a Spartan began in 1977 with his first post at the Dunbar Forest Experiment Station in the eastern portion of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. In 1981, Randy moved into a new role on south campus as the resident Farm Manager of the Tree Research Center where he continues to perform above and beyond what is expected. Randy’s colleagues had this to say about him:

“His passion for mentoring MSU students and their ultimate success is resolute. Randy is a well-respected and trusted staff member, especially among forestry students. He is often looked to for professional advice and guidance related to the challenging landscape that the academic experience can create. His support keeps morale up and provides the insight needed to effectively manage difficult situations. Randy is a pillar of support among his colleagues across campus and MSU stations throughout the state.”

“Randy is an extremely self-conscious individual and takes an unrelenting personal pride and ownership in EVERY project that he undertakes, painstakingly exploring every minute detail, to ensure the efficiency, economics, and success of the project. He is an exemplary manager with a willingness and determination to support all things MSU, all things student experience, and all things Forestry; without hesitation or second guessing, Randy will jump right in and make things happen.”

“Randy has been selfless in supporting faculty, staff, grad students, and undergrads. Working behind the scenes, he has been a key contributor to the success of the MSU Forestry Department and allied departments such as Entomology and Horticulture. He truly embodies the notion of going ‘above and beyond the call of duty’ and would be an outstanding and worthy selection for the Breslin Distinguished Staff Award.”

Heather Lenartson-Kluge

Heather Lenartson-Kluge serves as Graduate Program Assistant and Assistant to the Chairperson in the Department of Entomology. She has served MSU for over 25 years and her duties include course scheduling, management of department-controlled classrooms, processing graduate admissions & assistantships, and support for faculty reappointment, promotion, and tenure. Here is what her colleagues had to say:

“Heather truly represents the ‘Spartans Will’ ethic. She facilitates a very large number of activities, processes, and essential functions for MSU’s Department of Entomology. She is often the face and voice of the department as she is a primary contact for all those who need information and assistance for all things insects!”

“Heather genuinely cares for the graduate students from application to graduation. I have witnessed her tenacity helping international students navigate the administrative maze that is the graduate school application. Her diplomacy facilitates the interaction among students, faculty and administration and the resolution of issues that arise in a student’s procession through milestones. The students value her experience and, on several occasions, sought her help to resolve course credit and other issues. In addition, the faculty seek Ms Lenartson-Kluge’s advice and help in many graduate student matters.”

“Heather is the heart and soul of our department. She is often the first face students see when they apply and then enroll, and she shepherds them through the processes toward graduation. She is also the sounding board for countless faculty concerns, providing support and problem solving. I feel honored to have the opportunity to work with her and she richly deserves this honor.”

Megghan Seidel

Megghan Seidel is the Publication and Events Manager for MSU Extension. Megghan’s career at MSU began 19 years ago as an undergraduate in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR). Megghan supports the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, MSU Extension and AgBioResearch in the development, planning and execution of high-priority, educational events, conferences, and workshops. Her colleagues had this to say about her:

“Her teammates describe her as a ‘rockstar teammate’ who when assigned a task or commits to helping on a project she ‘does what is asked and more.’ Megghan is always willing to jump in and help whenever anyone on the event services team or within CANR needs assistance. This can be something as small as sharing a contact name for a vendor, helping to find a location to host an event or stepping in to help a colleague successfully plan and manage their event.”

“Megghan is one of those people that makes everyone that she works with better. Megghan provides great support and inspiration to those with whom she works, and in turn they match her enthusiasm and professionalism. Megghan is a tremendous mentor for students. She is a great teacher and helps students learn how to do things with high standards and provides personal counsel as they discuss their life goals and objectives.”

In response to the Michigan Ag Credit Conference, it was said, “I owe a huge thanks to Megghan whose innovativeness, connections and expertise greatly contributed to the success of the conference. She was integral in rethinking the conference, envisioning how it would flow in the new space, understood the needs of our audience, and helped us secure excellent speakers. She works hard, gets things done on time, and is trustworthy. She is an asset to MSU!”

Coreena Spitzley

Coreena Spitzley is the Budget and Personnel Administrator for the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (MMG) and she has been with MSU 44 years. She manages all grant budgets for this research-intensive department and coordinates the department budgets derived from four colleges (Human Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Natural Sciences) and the AgBioResearch unit. In addition, Coreena supervises the MMG office staff and advises the chair directly on all financial and administrative matters pertinent to the department. Here is what her colleagues had to say:

“Ms. Spitzley provides innovative solutions to problems, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the department. Coreena has a central role in ensuring the department operates smoothly and efficiently. I am extremely impressed by the accomplishments of Coreena Spitzley and wholeheartedly believe she epitomizes the distinctions expected of the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award winners.”

“MMG is certainly one of the luckiest departments when it comes to having a knowledgeable and top-notch business manager. Coreena’s experience and commitment are invaluable and are recognized by everyone from deans, chairpersons, faculty, staff and students. She has proven to be an excellent mentor for new business managers in similar multi-administered units. From financial management and human resources to building management and more, she oversees it all with precision. As a supervisor, Coreena supports flexible work schedules and our career journeys. She is truly a role-model for us all in this aspect. Coreena has established an office atmosphere that is very comfortable, non-stressful and enjoyable.”

“It is a privilege to work with Coreena Spitzley in the Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, and a greater one to be able to support her nomination for the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award. Among the many excellent staff members I have the great fortune of working with at MSU, there is none who brings a greater measure of Spartan Spirit to work than Coreena.”

James Lee Williams

James Williams is responsible for the maintenance repairs in Case Hall and has been with MSU for over 37 years. This includes resident requests such as plumbing, lighting, electrical, and lock related, as well as building repairs, monthly reports, and projects for partners. Partners James has worked directly with include culinary, operations, IPF, and James Madison College. James’ colleagues had this to say about him:

“James is a natural born, humble leader. He does not need the title and can recognize when to take the lead and when to step back and support someone else. He ensures all team members have a voice and an equal opportunity to develop professionally and personally at work. A continuous example of James’ excellence at work can be seen in the resident responses from maintenance requests, of which 95% of are ranked as ‘excellent’ for his work, which is the highest possible ranking.”

“James is an extraordinarily successful maintenance worker because of his willingness to go above and beyond with any challenge that comes his way. James always goes that extra mile to make sure staff are fully trained and that our residents are delivered a ‘WOW’ experience! James is a collaborator and displays leadership skills by educating our student staff with knowledge in building maintenance. James is very efficient in any task he completes which leads to improvements with the overall functionality of Case Hall.”

“The most noteworthy characteristic James brings to the Spartan team is his ability to create a sense of calm in highly stressful times such as move in, and he does so with ease! James will not shy away from a task even if it isn’t within the scope of his job. He will see to it that the right person is well informed to follow through and make sure that you are taken care of.”

Thank you to Cheeney Media Concepts for all video recordings. All video credit: cmc2.tv

2022 Clerical-Technical Recognition Award Winner!

The Clerical-Technical Recognition Award is presented annually to a Michigan State University support staff member performing clerical-technical duties. The recipient is selected from nominations received by the CT Recognition Award Selection Committee. The award is sponsored by the Thomas and Concettina Gliozzo Endowment Fund to recognize outstanding MSU clerical-technical employees.

This year’s winner is Jessica Thelen! Watch this video to learn more about Jessica:

Jessica is a Healthcare Assistant within the MSU Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Clinic where she provides quality care for patients and families affected by cancer and blood disorders. Exceeding expectations, Jessica has been described as a critical link between the clinic, laboratory and radiology offices. 

Jessica goes above and beyond for patients by making the clinic fun, organizing and fundraising events and connecting them with organizations like Make-A-Wish, Children’s Special Health Care Services and more. Jessica’s coworkers describe her as an enthusiastic, caring and dedicated employee who provides the best possible care that the patients deserve.

The photos above were taken at a special reception held in Jessica’s honor. Congratulations to Jessica!

Submit a Nomination for the 2023 Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award!

Do you know an MSU employee pursuing a post-baccalaureate degree who deserves recognition for going above and beyond in their work and studies? Show appreciation for your coworkers and their outstanding work by nominating them for the 2022 Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award! MSU is seeking nominations for this award and will accept nominations through January 20, 2023.

This annual award recognizes a support staff member who most closely exemplifies the contributions, personal characteristics, and commitment to MSU demonstrated by Ms. Jameyson, going “above and beyond” in supporting the mission of MSU. In recognition of Ms. Jameyson’s pursuit of a graduate degree, while working at MSU, the award recipient must be pursuing a graduate degree at MSU or elsewhere concurrent with their employment at MSU. A stipend of $2,500 will accompany the award and may be used as determined appropriate by the recipient.

Last year’s Ruth Jameyson Award winner, Elizabeth (Lizz) Duran, is the MSU Extension 4-H Program Coordinator for the Children and Youth Institute. At the time of the award, she was pursuing a Master of Arts from MSU in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education. Learn more about the 2022 Ruth Jameyson Award Winner and what her colleagues had to say.

Any university community member (colleague, administrator, faculty, support staff, or student) may submit a nomination. A nominee must be a regular, active employee with at least five years of service to MSU in a support staff position.

To learn more about the nomination process, and find the nomination form, visit the MSU HR website. The deadline for nominations is January 20, 2023.

2023 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Call for Nominations!

Remarkable, dedicated and hardworking are just some of the words used to describe the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Recipients. The Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award is presented annually to six university support staff members, hand-selected by the Selection Committee from nominations received by the recipients’ colleagues.

The award is named in honor of Jack Breslin, who served Michigan State University as a student leader, honored athlete, top administrator and steadfast advocate. His strong and innovative leadership played a pivotal role in MSU’s growth and development as the nation’s premier land grant institution.

Nominations are now open for the 2023 award and the nomination form and accompanying materials are due October 28, 2022. Selection criteria for recipients include overall excellence in job performance, supportive attitude and contributions to the unit or university that lead to improved efficiency or effectiveness, and valuable service to the university. Please review the nomination form and the HR website for further details. Do not notify the nominee before or after submitting your nomination. The nomination form, supervisor approval and accompanying materials are due October 28, 2022. Contact MSU Human Resources with any questions at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu.

MSU Celebrates 2022 Award Winners

This year, Michigan State University celebrates staff for their hard work and dedication by awarding the annual Retirement and Service Recognition, the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award, and the Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award. We acknowledge and are thankful to all our support staff.

Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Awards

The Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Awards honor six MSU support staff members annually. Colleagues submit nominations of individuals who demonstrate the qualities of Jack Breslin, who served MSU as a student leader, honored athlete, top administrator, and steadfast advocate, personifying the “Spartan Spirit.” Awardees display overall excellence in job performance, supportive attitude, and contributions. This year’s awardees are:

Linda Cornish

Linda Cornish is the Director of Operations and Division Administrator in the Division of Public Health in the College of Human Medicine. She has more than 17 years of executive management experience and oversees operations for the building, education, research, and community mission of the Division. Linda is known for her transformational leadership, facilitating critical conversation, and her ability to focus on long-term operational business strategies. Linda’s colleagues had this to say about her:

“Linda’s many skills, commitment to excellence, and attention to detail were valuable during the transition to remote work due to the pandemic. Most appreciated throughout this crisis has been Linda’s obvious care and concern for people and their needs – especially the MSU faculty, staff, and students she serves.”

“As a new employee, Linda was the consummate professional who helped me with any of my questions or concerns. Now that I have been here for three years, I know I can always depend on her to answer questions, even if they do not relate to her areas of responsibility. In short, DPH could not function as it does without her.”

Sandi Cox

Sandi is a Secretary III in University Advancement and provides administrative support for regional advancement staff. She has been with MSU for over 13 years and with University Advancement for more than five years. Sandi has an outstanding work ethic, takes a collaborative approach, and goes above and beyond for her team. Sandi consistently exhibits excellence in her job performance, and her willingness to take on additional responsibilities is noticed and appreciated by all of those she supports. Her colleagues had this to say about her:

“Sandi has a curiosity and readiness to learn, which benefits those around her. She spends time perfecting new tools and gaining experience with new procedures and systems. She is a lifelong learner seeking new challenges personally and professionally. She has completed two degrees while working at MSU – one in Kinesiology and one in Communications.”

“Sandi goes out of her way to make colleagues feel valued and appreciated by sending thoughtful cards and care packages. If someone has a tough day, she is the first to reach out with encouraging words.”

“We believe that Sandi Cox exemplifies all you wish to recognize through the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award. Sandi has an outstanding work ethic, a collaborative approach, a strategic mind, and, most importantly, a kind and generous spirit that is a joy to have in our office and part of our team.”

Jill Cruth

Jill is the Academic Program Coordinator in Fisheries and Wildlife. She coordinates the administrative functions for post-graduate academic programs, including admissions, academic advising, academic progress and graduation, and more. In her 21 years with the department, Jill has had increasingly more responsibilities, all of which are critical to the successful operation of the department. Jill is also very active in outreach and engagement at the university and within the local community. She has served on multiple committees, including but not limited to the Women’s Advisory Committee for Finance, Personnel, and Operations, CANR Staff Advisory Committee, and the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Graduate Committee. Here is what her colleagues had to say:

“Jill is a dedicated professional respected by faculty and adored by students. Her commitment to student success and well-being is beyond compare.”

“Jill consistently finds opportunities to improve how she does her job, which translates into overall improvement for the department. She identifies and attends appropriate professional development opportunities. Her commitment to learning on the job has been particularly evident this past year as the university continues to implement new systems such as Slate and Campus Solutions.”

Matthew Jackson

Matthew Jackson is the managing Director for the Management Education Center in Troy. He manages the financial, personnel, and operational activities of the Management Education Center. Matt provides outreach, engagement, and conference center services to the Detroit area business community on behalf of the MSU Eli Broad College of Business. He is the fiscal officer for the unit and leads the MEC team in sales, event management, and technical services. Matthew has served in various capacities with the facility for more than 40 years, integral to its continued transformation into one of the top meeting destinations for organizations in southeast Michigan. Here is what his colleagues had to say:

“Over the years, Mr. Jackson has developed broad expertise and deep insight into all aspects of the facility, allowing him to develop innovative solutions to the challenges of a nearly 50-year-old

building. Every day, he amazes me with his dedication to excellence and willingness to go above and beyond to seek perfection in an imperfect world.”

“When he assumed leadership for the facility, he created a more open, transparent, and collaborative relationship amongst his team, which created a client-focused, trust-based environment. He has nurtured relationships with many external organizations that support the facility.”

“Matthew lifts the entire staff at MEC to excellence, and he does so by truly leading by example. His kind and hands-on approach to tackling all problems helps alleviate stress and restores calm.”

Rebecca Kegler

Rebecca is the Assistant Director for Recreational Sports and Fitness Services. She administers every aspect of the Group Fitness program, including up to 30 instructors at a time. She coordinates all spaces in multiple buildings and outdoors to organize a robust group fitness program of over 20 disciplines and formats. Rebecca collaborates with multiple on-campus units to reach a diverse audience of students, faculty, staff, and retirees. She has a great relationship with her peers and campus collaborators. Student organizations and academic units reach out to her for special classes for their specific populations. Here is what Rebecca’s colleagues had to say about her:

“At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rebecca sought and utilized shared knowledge of colleagues across the State and B1G Ten to identify and act upon the needs of the new world of Virtual Group Fitness. What resulted from this effort was a new group fitness program, Fresh Air Fitness, that used our beautiful outdoor gardens and other scenic outdoor spaces for group exercise.”

“Rebecca is a person who volunteers and expresses a willingness to undertake service to the campus community and professional organizations. She currently is a member of the MSU University Well-Being Coalition Steering Committee, which is a network of university partners working cross-functionally toward creating and strengthening a culture of sustainable and equitable health and well-being at MSU.”

Dale Schmitt

Dale is a Welder II for the Maintenance Services Electrical Utility Crew in Infrastructure Planning and Facilities. His crew supports installing and maintaining high voltage cabling, street lights, and associated equipment. He could be welding a safety handrail, piping, or a football goal post on any given day. He may operate heavy equipment to dig a hole, bore in an electrical cable, jump in during an emergency to repair a water main break, or haul snow during a winter storm. Here is what Dale’s colleagues had to say about him:

“Dale possesses a unique ability to create solutions for particularly challenging projects. The College of Communication Arts and Sciences recently requested we remove a large satellite dish that collapsed. Dale was the first to come to mind for this job. He arrived and minutes later, sketched out his plan and completed it in half the estimated time. Dale takes this approach to every job. He creates solutions, finds efficiencies, and delivers excellence.”

“Dale provides excellent customer service with a can-do attitude that builds trusting relationships between building occupants and IPF. When there is a commitment to a customer, he understands the importance of their needs and strives to meet them. Dale recognizes the university is a team, and the trust he built has resulted in others eager to assist him in return.”

Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award

This annual award recognizes a support staff member who most closely exemplifies the contributions, personal characteristics, and commitment to MSU demonstrated by Ms. Ruth Jameyson, going “above and beyond” expectations in supporting the mission of MSU. In recognition of Ms. Jameyson’s pursuit of a graduate degree, while working at MSU, the award recipient must be pursuing a graduate degree at MSU or elsewhere concurrent with their employment at MSU.

The recipient this year is Elizabeth (Lizz) Duran. She is the MSU Extension 4-H Program Coordinator for the Children and Youth Institute. She has been with MSU for nine years and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts from MSU in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education. Lizz is a colleague who stands out in her leadership, professionalism, and passion for community service. Her colleagues have this to say about her:

“Lizz is a reliable leader committed to providing quality programming to her community. She is responsible for a large and diverse county and has often been the only staff person in her county. During these times, Lizz successfully balances her time to engage and develop youth and adult volunteers in her county from various programs. She always goes above and beyond to make sure youth and adult volunteers have opportunities to engage in programs, training, and opportunities that fit their needs and interests.”

“Lizz is patient and persistent with her family and community partners. She remains courteous, professional, and optimistic, even through challenges. The families and partners she works with know that they can count on her presence.”

“Lizz is genuine and is a joy to be around throughout my time working with her. She creates a welcoming and friendly environment for every project we have worked on together. She is always positive and willing to help other colleagues stay motivated and forward-thinking. She is a true representation of the Ruth Jameyson Above and Beyond Award.”

Congratulations to all award winners once again for their outstanding work. MSU would not be where it is today without the help of our incredible staff. We invite the colleagues and friends of these receipts to congratulate and appreciate these individuals.

Congratulations to Service and Retirement Recognition Program Awardees!

The MSU Retirement and Service Recognition Award recognizes support staff employees celebrating a 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50th work anniversary or a retirement falling between July 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021. This shortened date range is to support a transition from recognizing employees based on the fiscal year to the calendar year. Next year, we will recognize employee years of service between January 1 and December 31, 2022. This year, we recognize over 450 employees celebrating long-term work anniversaries and retirements.

While we are not able to hold an in-person celebration this year, we are no less thankful for our employees’ dedicated service to MSU. We are incredibly disappointed that we cannot celebrate our employees at an in-person event for their talent, loyalty, and contributions to MSU. Our university’s development and growth have been, in large part, due to the contributions made by staff members who have chosen to remain in the service of the university.

MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D.

President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. acknowledged awardees and expressed his gratitude:

“Service and Retirement Award recipients, congratulations on this milestone in your career or retirement from MSU. In addition to the great work you do every day, I am grateful for your dedication and flexibility over the past couple of challenging years. Together, we have maintained the university’s momentum across our key missions of education, research and outreach — a great accomplishment. I am proud to be your colleague. Thank you for all you do for MSU.”

For a full list of employees celebrating a milestone or retirement, please review the program here.

Thank you to these employees for their years of dedicated service to MSU! If you recognize any names from the program, we encourage you to reach out to these individuals and offer your congratulations.

Nominate an Employee for the 2022 Clerical-Technical Recognition Award Today!

Do you work with an outstanding MSU employee performing clerical-technical duties? Acknowledge their hard work and dedication to MSU by nominating them for the Clerical-Technical (CT) Recognition Award! Nominations are now being accepted through Friday, July 29, 2022, at 5p.m.

The winner of this annual award is selected based on the following criteria:

  • Respect of their peers and continuous diligence in attending to their daily responsibilities.
  • Concern for students, faculty, staff, and colleagues in their respective units, particularly (but not limited to) those assisting overseas U.S. students and faculty, international students, international faculty, etc.
  • Extraordinary and significant contributions to the community or public service.
  • Innovative thinking in facilitating unit tasks and responsibilities.

Individuals may be nominated by any member of the MSU community, and the recipient will be selected by the CT Recognition Award Selection Committee. The winner will be profiled in the HR Source monthly newsletter and will receive a monetary award of $1,000 from the endowment fund in recognition of their outstanding service.

This award is given by the Thomas and Concettina Gliozzo Endowment Fund. Charles Gliozzo is director emeritus of MSU’s Study Abroad program. Thomas and Concettina Gliozzo were immigrants who became U.S. citizens and valued the importance of education throughout their lives.

How to Nominate an Employee

To nominate an individual:

  1. Complete a nomination form
  2. Collect a minimum of two support letters (maximum of five) by MSU colleagues. You may include additional information if it supports the applicant’s nomination.

Please Note: nominees must be part of the CT Union.

Nominations are due by 5:00 p.m., Friday, July 29, 2022. Email the PDF nomination form with a minimum of two support letters to bracamontes@hr.msu.edu with the subject line: CT Recognition Award Selection Committee.

Nominations are Open for the Student Employee of the Year Award!

If you work at MSU, you know how important student employees are to the success of your department and the university. Do you know a student who consistently goes above and beyond in their work? Supervisors have the chance to recognize these exemplary Spartans by nominating them for the Student Employee of the Year award by February 11, 2022.

Find more details and the nomination form on the Department of Student Life website.

Eligible nominees must be:

  • Currently registered in an MSU degree-granting program.
  • Employed on student employee payroll for a minimum of three months between June 1, 2021 and May 31, 2022.
  • Nominated by their supervisor. Only one student employee may be nominated per supervisor. Complete an online nomination form here.
    Note: Graduate assistants, residence hall staff and other student employees who do not fall under the jurisdiction of MSU Student Employment or the Student Employee Payroll may not be nominated for this award. They are eligible for other recognition programs.

All nominees will be honored with certificates. The MSU Student Employee winner’s name is submitted for consideration for the State of Michigan competition. All nominees will be acknowledged at a reception on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, Big Ten A. Learn more about the award on the Department of Student Life website.