On Staff Recognition Day, Thursday, April 7, 2016, the Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) community recognized the work of the staff and their accomplishments throughout the past year. President Dottie King, Ph.D., presented two staff members with awards at the ceremony:
Outstanding Staff Award
The Outstanding Staff Award is presented each year, to recognize a full- or part-time staff employee for going above and beyond normal responsibilities and dedication to their profession. The recipient of the Spring 2016 Outstanding Staff Award received a $100 check, two personal days, a parking spot of their choice for six months and a framed certificate.
Ian Garner, director of sports information and intramurals, was presented the Spring 2016 Outstanding Staff Award for enthusiasm and dedication to The Woods. Hardworking and courteous, Garner implemented an intramural program for SMWC students, as well as creating wellness activities for faculty and staff. He is constantly checking in with students, Campus Life and other staff members to make sure that the programs he is providing are of interest to students and staff, and fit with the College’s other events.
This year Garner offered to take over photographing the athletic teams and designing all of their posters and media guides. He is always looking for creative ways to highlight SMWC students on social media, through news releases and emails. In his nomination, one co-worker stated, “The day he was hired he hit the ground running and hasn’t stopped since.” More than anything, he is always giving 100% to whatever the job at hand entails.
Carolyn J. Mock Staff Excellence Award
Named after former staff member who served the College from 1986 until her death from cancer in 1998, the Carolyn J. Mock Staff Excellence is presented annually, to a full- or part-time staff member in recognition for going above and beyond normal responsibilities, dedication to their profession and participation in college and community organizations. The recipient of the Carolyn J. Mock Award received a $300 check, five personal days, a parking spot of their choice for a year and an engraved plaque.
Jessica Schmidt, director of assessment and general studies, was presented the 2016 Carolyn J. Mock Staff Excellence Award for optimistic and student-centered approach and her willingness to help anyone at any time. Described as a good listener and facilitator, Schmidt was key to SMWC’s successful Higher Learning Commission (HLC) re-accreditation visit. She took the time to learn from other institutions and attended workshops and webinars to be fully comfortable with the process. She has worked tirelessly on making WC 100 a great course and works to continue making our general studies courses stronger.
In her nomination, one staff member wrote, “She is my go-to staff member when I have an immediate need because I know she will be efficient and thorough and do it with a smile on her face.” A faculty member wrote, “I have never worked with anyone like her in my life. She is the most giving person I know.”