Tag: Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award

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 recipients: Jesse Alvarez, Ken Beer, Sarah Evans-Cain, Mark Fellows, Amanda Goll, and Darwin Meirndorf! These recipients display excellence in their job performance, supportive attitude, and contributions to MSU. On May 13, they were honored at an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center along with the Ruth Jameyson Above and Beyond and Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition award recipients.

Watch a recording of the event below or on YouTube:

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

Jesse Alvarez

Jesse Alvarez is the Law Clinic Manager in the College of Law and has been in his role for 13 years. He is known for his dedication, kindness, and humor. Jesse manages daily MSU Law Clinic operations and assists with projects involving space, systems, and services. He is good-natured, patient, and is considered the best resource for questions regarding office procedures and clinic operations. Here is what his colleagues had to say about him:

“For the purposes of the Jack Breslin Award, I challenge anyone to find someone who more deeply embodies the “Spartan Spirit” than Jesse Alvarez. Jesse does his work with a deep love for Michigan State University and the people who come here to study and work.”

“Jesse is that one-in-a-million staff person that ends up being the glue holding everything together. He is truly a friend and confidant to everyone he meets—faculty, staff, and students alike. He always goes above and beyond to help, often setting aside what he was working on to help. He is not simply the Law Clinic’s office manager, he is the heart of our operation, and he is bettering the lives of all of us.”

“In everything he does, Jesse is mission-driven. He asks himself not whether a task is part of his job but how he can improve the services, both legal and educational, that we seek to provide. He thinks creatively about how to accomplish goals. His understated manner belies his passion for our work and the indispensable role he plays in making it happen.”

Please watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Jesse:

Ken Beer

Ken Beer is the Senior Fiscal Officer for the College of Communication Arts and Sciences Dean’s Office and has served MSU for over 22 years. Ken’s job duties include the management of all accounts and budget in the ComArtSci Dean’s Office. He is known as “Spartan Spirit” and “Spartans Will” personified. Ken is known, respected, and counted on across MSU for his extraordinary attention to detail, willingness to go the extra mile to help anyone who asks, and his ability to bring people together. Ken’s colleagues had this to say about him:

“Ken possesses a remarkable ability to anticipate the needs of his department and proactively address them. He consistently seeks ways to enhance our processes and procedures, always with a humble approach that considers the well-being of faculty, staff, students and college leaders.”

“Ken’s exceptional dedication, proactive approach, promotion of inclusivity, and unwavering commitment to the College and University make him a most deserving candidate for the Breslin Award. He is not only an asset to our college, but a shining example of what it means to be a Spartan.”

“Ken is one of the most caring people you will ever meet. He is the personification of what it means to be the salt of the earth. Professionally, he is dedicated to modeling what it means to be an outstanding collaborative caretaker of the College of Communication Art and Sciences finances. Personally, his positive, supportive attitude for all whom he meets, no matter their origin or position in life, illuminates what it means to be a true MSU Spartan.”

Please watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Ken:

Sarah Evans-Cain

Sarah Evans-Cain serves as the Administrative Coordinator for the Lyman Briggs College. She has served MSU for over seven years and her duties include supporting the Assistant Dean, seven academic advisors, two career staff, supervising three student employees, and providing supportive service to 2,000 students and over 60 faculty in the college. She manages classroom scheduling, travel arrangements, calendaring for the SSA team, and academic processes like major changes, overrides, and degree certifications. Here is what her colleagues had to say:

“Sarah is an outstanding coworker. I’ve been continually impressed with her ability to approach every situation with patience, respect, and professionalism. She’s our first line of defense and oftentimes the first impression visitors have of LBC. She has an uncanny ability to make students and families feel comfortable and heard so they leave feeling supported. Sarah is always the first person to jump in and help with any situation and represents what it truly means to be a team player. Not only has she helped us all become better employees and better serve our students, but she also creates a welcoming environment where we all feel we can grow and learn because we’re supported.”

“What truly sets Sarah apart is her patience and kindness. No matter how many times I’ve sought clarification or assistance, she has consistently responded with unwavering patience. Moreover, Sarah consistently goes above and beyond in the office. Her flexibility during times of adversity showcases her care for our success and well-being.”

“Sarah adopts a well-rounded approach to ensure the success of both students and the team. Sarah’s approach to ensuring success is meticulously balanced, catering not only to the students but also to the team. Her empathetic and compassionate nature forms the backbone of her contributions while working with professional staff and students. Her exceptional foresight and intuition in assisting with the implementation of successful strategies are unparalleled, making her an invaluable asset to any team she works with.”

Please watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Sarah:

Mark Fellows

Mark Fellows is the Communications Manager in the Office of the President and has been with MSU for 15 years. Mark helps lead the development of primary communications materials for MSU’s president and collaborates with University Communications to design effective communications strategies and cultivate communication opportunities for the MSU president. He also works to elevate the reputation of Michigan State University by increasing the visibility of the president and the university in the news media. His colleagues had this to say about him: 

“Never one to settle for ‘acceptable,’ always one to push for distinctive value in his writing, Mark’s consistent adherence to a higher standard continues to guide his fundamental ethos and everyday approach to his work. While serving at a high level, and for the highest-profile leader at MSU, Mark has maintained a poised professionalism that embodies the university’s land-grant ethos—humble, hardworking, collaborative, forward-thinking, and inclusive.”

“The maturity, poise and professionalism Mark exhibits in his daily work provide a model for all with whom he interacts, creating a multiplier effect that encourages all to reach for such high standards. His even presence and kind words have buoyed me and others up during some challenging times and inspired us to bring our best selves to work every day.”

“Overall, Mark’s quiet, behind-the-scenes work has provided MSU’s presidents with solid support since 2009. It is the kind of work that is invisible to most, rarely lauded, but so fundamentally necessary to the daily needs of the president and the university. The unpretentious humility and keen intelligence of Mark’s character have undoubtedly contributed to his success in this role, a success worthy of praise and of recognition as a truly distinguished staff member of this great university.”

Please watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Mark:

Amanda Goll

Amanda Goll is the Deputy Chief of Staff for the Office of the President and has been with MSU for 13 years. She wears many hats in the President’s office including human resources officer, budget officer, fiscal officer, supervisor of the office receptionist, and business administrative manager. In addition, Amanda engages in special projects which include representing the President’s Office on university committees, supporting project management, and implementation of key initiatives across campus. Here is what her colleagues had to say:

“Amanda is one of the most trusted sources for advice and counsel among fiscal officers and HR professionals on campus. Through multiple transitions of Presidents, she has been a calm and steady influence with the President’s Office staff. Amanda is also a helpful guide for new staff and a listening ear for both new and experienced staff in navigating the complexity of transition at the very top of the institution. Amanda does this by making herself available as an empathetic listener, who seeks to build relationships and trust among those with whom she interacts.”

“Amanda has an incredible ‘can-do’ attitude that is both professional and welcoming. As one might imagine, the nature of issues she is often asked to resolve can be highly complex and sensitive in nature. Amanda’s creativity and intelligence enable her to handle such complex issues expertly and quickly. Her strong working relationships across departments contribute to her success in tackling what can be very thorny issues.”

“Amanda leads with a focus on being open‐minded, calm, and patient. I know when I meet with Amanda that I have her undivided attention. She is connected and listens. She brings commitment and dedication to any topic and is a highly collaborative partner. Additionally, she is one to ensure all viewpoints are addressed. It’s with her keen sense of listening and observation skills that she can identify and understand needs and initiate ways to support efforts to address those needs.”

Please watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Amanda:

Darwin Meirndorf

Darwin Meirndorf is a boiler mechanic with Infrastructure Planning and Facilities and has been with MSU for 43 years. His work includes customer service, maintaining HVAC and boiler equipment, and coordinating with others across the university on essential mechanical system issues. Darwin’s colleagues had this to say about him:

“Over my years of service at the University, I’ve had conversations with a variety of individuals from different departments. Their stories and interactions are all the same when they speak of Darwin. They all talk about his hard work, knowledge, accountability, character, customer service and actions of going above and beyond his normal job duties. He is always the first person to help family, friends, and the community food bank outside of work as well. He is the type of individual who represents MSU in every aspect the university is looking for in an employee. I know in my heart he is very deserving of this award.”

“Darwin interacts well with customers and coworkers, showing care and consideration for others. During my time working with Darwin, I noticed that when dealing with customers, he would be sure to make initial contact with them to hear their concerns before going to work on the problem. This increases efficiency and reduces the need for a return call by knowing more than just the basic information relayed through the work order. In addition, he made sure to follow up with them to let them know the status of the situation, be it resolved or needing further action from him. Darwin has always been willing to assist anyone in the HVAC shop and make sure everyone is taken care of.”

“I would not be where I am today without Darwin’s knowledge and expertise guiding me and teaching me. Darwin will go anywhere and do anything to help solve my problems. He is priceless. Tears were in my eyes when I gave him a hug before he walked out the door for retirement in 2012, and I was elated when he returned to the university in 2016.”

Please watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Darwin:

All photo credit: Dane Robison/TimeFramePhoto

All video credit: Cheeney Media Concepts

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