Cheers and applause echoed through the Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel Oct. 4 when Park University held its 2013 Longevity Awards ceremony to recognize and honor Park faculty and staff who have served at least five years with the university.
“To us, longevity matters. Park University matters, and you matter to Park University,” said Roger Dusing, director of Human Resources Services at Park, welcoming all in attendance.
Park University President Dr. Michael Droge gave the opening remarks.
During the presentation of the awards, Dusing announced each category and recipient’s name, while Droge, along with vice presidents and deans of various departments, handed out the awards.
Droge said he felt this event was very important to hold at Park.
“This is a kind of event that tells people they matter,” he said. “It’s people who make this place matter. I feel so proud to have my 10-year pin. Park is a very special place.”
Special recognition was made to Ronald Brecke and Renee Jack, who have both served at Park for 30 years. Jutta Pegues was also given special recognition for 35 years of service to the school.
Kathleen Goodwin, who suffered a stroke six months ago and returned to work four months ago, received a standing ovation when she was recognized for her 25 years of service.
“I feel like I’ve worked 25 years, but these years have been good,” said Goodwin, who works in student affairs. “Everyone has been very supportive and helpful since my return.”
Also recognized for 25 years of service were Gerald Braley, Facilities; Dennis Gresdo, School of Business; and Kathy Lofflin, School for Education.
Those who were honored for 20 years of service were Lorraine Bartholomaeus, Park Distance Learning – Academics; Rosemary Gilbert, Park Distance Learning – Operations; Jody Manchion, Academic Affairs; Donna Morgan, Park Distance Learning – Operations; and Dees Stallings, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Recognition for 15 years of service went to Nancy Blackburn, Park Distance Learning – Operations; Erlan Burk, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Jo Ann Cline, Finance and Administration; Jennifer Ehrlich, Park Distance Learning – Operations; Andrew Johnson, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Helen Lucas, Finance and Administration; Wade Tripp, Information Technology; SL Sartain, Park Distance Learning – Operations; Dorla Watkins, Finance and Administration; and Steven Youngblood, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Those who were recognized for 10 years of service were Beverly Aldridge, Finance and Administration; Ed Becker, Facilities; Kay Boehr, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Laure Christensen, President’s Office; Amber Dailey-Hebert, School for Education; Michael Droge, President’s Office; Kimmon Halloran, Academic Affairs; Terri Harmon, Facilities; Anita Leone, School of Business; Cary Lundy, Student Affairs; Aldo Maldonado, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Jacklyn McKee, Academic Affairs; Carrie Palermo, Information Technology; Judith Richards, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Nathan Scherman, Information Technology; Debra Seabrook-Smalls, Park Distance Learning – Operations; Bobbi Jean Shaw, University Advancement; and Donna Wadley, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Finally, those who were honored for five years of service were Jorge Acosta, Facilities; Bonnie Alsbury, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Robin Bishop, Facilities; Cathy Boisen, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Rebecca Brammeier, Enrollment Management; Wakisha Briggs, Park Distance Learning – Academics; Robin Burger, Enrollment Management; Jackie Campbell, School of Business; Alberto Cerecedo, Facilities; John Cigas, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Gregory Claycomb, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Suzan Corcione, Enrollment Management; Scott Davis, Information Technology; Hugh Downing, Facilities; Stacy Engle-Tjaden, Enrollment Management; Steve Fenske, Enrollment Management; Maria Fernandez, Facilities; Donna Howell, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences;Debbie Johnston, Communications and Marketing; Donald E. Jones, Information Technology; Tiffany Jones, Enrollment Management; Sarah Karabelski, Park Distance Learning – Operations; Kimberly Kasperbauer, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Laurie McCormack, University Advancement; Yvonne Moduno, Park Distance Learning – Operations; Marcia Naher, Enrollment Management; Lindsay Noland, Enrollment Management; Kimberly Overbey, Finance and Administration; Regina Reed, Communications and Marketing; Dana Roberts, Enrollment Management; Mark Robinson, Enrollment Management; Fred Rohrer, Communications and Marketing; Karie Schaefer, Student Affairs; Christopher Slupianek, Park Distance Learning – Academics; Rebekkah Stuteville, School of Graduate and Professional Studies; Cynthia Tafoya, Park Distance Learning – Operations; Samuel Taibi, Enrollment Management; Cathy Taylor, School of Business; and Linda Wilkinson, Finance and Administration.