Drexel Salutes Nominations
Click a Drexel Salutes Award recipient below to read their summary of accomplishments.
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Jim Mergenthal
Jim works in IRT, a department under the Division of the President, as a Web Developer. He was nominated by Phyllis Lewis, Senior Associate Vice President of Human Resources. Over the past year and continuously, Jim has provided above-and-beyond service to the Human Resources Department. On many occasions HR has relied on his creativity and initiative. Examples of how he has demonstrated the FIRST Principle - Recognize, Respect, and Respond include his work in mounting a totally new web site for StudentsFirst and in helping HR completely revamp the HR web site. Jim demonstrates an extraordinary concern for the end-user and seeks to satisfy, even anticipate needs. His method is to respect the customers' wishes while offering a solution that works both technically and artistically. Jim clearly shows his passion for the customer and his co-workers through his work. Jim Mergenthal continuously does a wonderful job of combining technology, business, and people in order to get the job done.
Maureen Beatty
Maureen has worked as a Cooperative Education Coordinator in the Steinbright Career Development Center since beginning her career with Drexel University in 1989. She was nominated for this honor by Laurie Lenz, also of the Steinbright Career Development Center . Maureen demonstrated the FIRST principle “It Starts With Me” by single-handedly initiating an effort to reestablish Drexel's chapter of the National Cooperative Education Honor Society, Kappa Theta Epsilon. According to Laurie, Maureen seized an opportunity to help students who excel academically get recognized and to help improve the skill sets of other students. She never backs down from a challenging situation and continues to contribute innovative ideas to the Steinbright Career Development Center and to the University.
Alba Berberena
Alba has been an Academic Support Specialist with the Goodwin College of Professional Studies since 2002, and she began her career with Drexel in 1998. She was nominated by three of her colleagues in the Goodwin College : Jeff Hand, Assistant Dean; James Tsafos, Program Manager; and Patricia Debes, Assistant to the Dean. Alba exemplifies the FIRST principle “First Impressions Count” by volunteering to arrive early to greet students and guests, and to make sure that the College is ready to receive daily visitors. She makes everyone's first impression of Goodwin College a lasting and positive one. According to Jim Tsafos, she makes Goodwin “a better place” and “treats students the way we would all like to be treated.”
Evan Danziger
Evan has been an Academic Advisor for the Pennoni Honors College since 2004 and joined Drexel University in 2001. He was nominated by Dr. Mark Greenberg, Dean of Pennoni Honors College for his unswerving dedication to serving the needs of Honors students. Evan exhibits the FIRST principle “Recognize, Respect, Respond” by not only providing academic advice to students but also by helping them to manage all aspects of their lives. Evan's willingness to go the extra mile to enhance the Drexel experience for Honors students is a major reason why student retention remains admirably high. To quote Dr. Greenberg, “I can't praise him enough.”
Steve Detofsky
Steve has been the Communications Coordinator for the School of Biomedical Engineering since 2001. He was nominated by Dr. Banu Onaral, the School's Director. Steve consistently exemplifies the FIRST principle “It Starts With Me” by taking the initiative to develop several important process enhancements. He developed a process for automatic timed updates to the School's website, and has developed streamlined communication channels between the School and its students, faculty, and the public. His attention to detail and his ability to anticipate potential roadblocks were instrumental in our successful effort to receive a Coulter Award for the School's Translational Research Program.
Amber Dixon
Amber has been an Assistant Dean in the College of Arts & Sciences since 2001 and joined Drexel University in 1999. She was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Dr. Donna Murasko, Dean of the College. Amber exemplifies the FIRST principle “Succeed Through Service” by consistently showing a “can-do” attitude when presented with challenging customer service opportunities. When a technical glitch prevented hundreds of Honors students from registering for courses, Amber took the initiative to manually register them before most of them even knew there was a problem. She assuaged the concerns of every panicked or disgruntled student, and made them feel valued. Amber took a challenge that could have reflected very poorly upon the University and turned it into a positive.
Kathleen Donahue
Kathie has been the Office Manager for the Department of Mechanical Engineering since 2004 and joined Drexel in 1999. She was nominated by Dr. Mun Young Choi, a Professor of Mechanical Engineering & Mechanics. Kathie is being recognized for her exceptional customer service abilities while serving as the primary point of contact for students with the department. On the rare occasion when she doesn't have the right answer to a student's question, she walks the student to the office where the right answer can be obtained. Further, she routinely stays beyond normal working hours to help co-ops or evening students, and even brings treats for students to enjoy during finals week. These actions are perfectly indicative of the principle, “Recognize, Respect, Respond.”
Reina Floyd and Jessica Montello
Reina began her career with Drexel University as a Senior Secretary in the Department of Performing Arts in 2001. Jessica became a Chief Clerk in the Department of Performing Arts in 2005, and joined Drexel University in 2003. Reina and Jessica were nominated for Drexel Salutes awards by Cecelia Fitzgibbon, Associate Professor in the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design. Reina and Jessica exemplified the FIRST principle “It Starts With Me” by leading an effort to revamp the entire administrative structure within the Department of Performing Arts. These efforts have led to greatly enhanced customer service, the creation of private areas where students can freely voice concerns, more focused job responsibilities for Department staff, and streamlined communication channels. This series of changes has had a tremendously positive effect on our students, faculty, and staff.
Kathy Funk
Kathy became the Director of Administration & Finance in the Office of the Provost last Summer and joined Drexel University in 1984. She was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Barbara Hoekje, Director of the English Language Center . Kathy exemplifies the FIRST principle “Recognize, Respect, Respond” by bringing intelligence, insight, patience, dedication, and the highest possible level of commitment to her daily work. Kathy is able to draw upon her many years of experience working throughout the University to create solutions to seemingly intractable problems. Her integrity makes Drexel a better place.
Denise Gibson
Denise became an Administrative Secretary in the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design in 1998, and joined Drexel University in 1993. She was nominated for this honor by her Supervisor, Jeanette Elliot-Brown, Director of Student Services for the College, for her dedication and unswerving commitment to the Student Services department. Denise exhibits the FIRST principle “Recognize, Respect, Respond” each day by respectfully helping colleagues and students through their day-to-day struggles. Her interpersonal skills are exceeded only by her unselfishness, according to Jeanette. Early in 2005, Denise displayed her unselfishness and commitment to Student Services by cutting her maternity leave short by two weeks to help with a staffing crisis.
Nichelle Gladden
Nichelle has been Assistant to the Department Head in the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design since 2004 and joined Drexel in 2003. She was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Joseph Gregory, Associate Professor in Visual Studies. Nichelle exemplifies the FIRST principle “It Starts With Me” by consistently facing difficult challenges in a courteous, upbeat, motivated, and steadfast manner. These qualities were best demonstrated when she capably filled the void left by the Department Head, Professor Brian Wagner, when he was taken ill in 2004. Nichelle assumed more responsibility than any one person could reasonably be expected to take on, and kept the Department moving forward during a very difficult time. According to Joseph, she is an exemplary and invaluable member of the Department and the University.
Judy Haines
Judy is a Graduate Program Administrator in the College of Information Science & Technology who began her career at Drexel in 1997. She was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Lewis Hassell, an Assistant Professor in the College. Lewis is unique among our nominators because he alone has been helped tremendously by his nominee both as a Drexel student and as a faculty member. Judy exemplifies the FIRST principle “It Starts With Me” each day taking ownership of all administrative duties so that the faculty may focus on what they do best- teaching. According to Dr. Hassell, she always assists students and faculty alike with a gracious smile and with first-class professionalism.
Lynne Hickle
Lynne Hickle became an Assistant Dean in the College of Information Science & Technology in 2003, and joined Drexel in 2000. She was nominated for this honor by Thao Danz, Director of Administrative Services in the College. Lynne exhibits the FIRST principle “It Starts With Me” on a daily basis by striving to make the college experience for IST students the best it can possibly be. Lynne has the ability to not only direct her efforts toward the “big picture” goals of the College, but also to the daily customer service interactions that truly make a difference in the lives of IST students. She is one of the primary reasons why survey data collected from IST students always shows positive results. As a supervisor, Lynne always demonstrates leadership, teamwork, and honesty. She leads by example and her staff values her guidance along with her collegiality.
Larry Keiser
Larry has been a Program Coordinator in the School of Education since 1997, and has worked for Drexel University for over 20 years. He was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Dr.William Lynch, Director of the School of Education for his outstanding customer service commitment and interpersonal skills. Larry exemplifies the FIRST principle “Recognize, Respect, Respond” by arriving early and staying late each and everyday to make certain that the needs of all students in the School of Education are met. Larry also makes himself available on weekends to meet the expectations of non-traditional students who often need help outside of typical business hours. It is a common occurrence to see Larry drop whatever he is doing to take care of the needs of a student. That is what StudentsFIRST is all about.
Helene LaBenz
Helene has been an Administrative Assistant in the School of Public Health since starting her career at Drexel University in 1997. Helene was nominated for this honor by Dr. Marla Gold, Dean of the School of Public Health . Helene exhibits the FIRST principle “First Impressions Count” each day by being a pleasant and helpful first contact for students as well as applicants to the School of Public Health . She is an expert at listening to student issues and demonstrating respect for them as customers. According to Dr. Gold, many students have told her that Helene was the reason they chose to attend Drexel. Her assistance during the complicated and stressful application and financial aid processes made the difference for these students. She constantly looks for new ways to improve lines of communication and to improve admissions processes.
Marc Levenson
Marc is the Director of Student Services in the College of Engineering . He assumed that role in 2004 and began working at Drexel University in 2003. Marc was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by the Dean of the College of Engineering , Dr. Selcuk Guceri. During Marc's tenure at the College, Dean Guceri has seen him make significant contributions in the form of completely reorganizing the Student Services and Advising operations. Marc has developed a culture of openness and attentiveness among his staff that is greatly appreciated by the many students who visit Student Services. During the past year, Marc has embarked on creating innovative programs to improve retention in the College of Engineering . His excellent service to students combined with his vision of a brighter future for the College make Marc a shining example of the FIRST principle “It Starts With Me.”
Susan Lowenstein
Susan assumed the role of Academic Advisor for the College of Nursing & Health Professions last Summer, and joined Drexel University in 1999. She was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Ronald Comer, Associate Professor in the College for her thoroughness and responsiveness to the needs of students. Since July, Susan has had primary advising duties for three undergraduate programs in the CNHP. Her persistence in pursuing knowledge to improve her job performance, along with her ready smile and determined commitment to student's needs are all readily recognizable attributes of this exemplary employee. Her willingness to go the extra mile to make the CNHP run more efficiently is a terrific demonstration of the FIRST principle “It Starts With Me.”
Kathleen Martz
Kathleen has been with Drexel University since 1999 and currently holds the position of Administrative Coordinator II in the College of Nursing & Health Professions. She was nominated for this honor by three of her colleagues in the CNHP: Eileen Murray, Office Manager II, Debby McCormack, Recruitment Manager, and Kate Reilly, Associate Director. Kathleen exemplifies the FIRST principle “Succeed Through Service” by constantly striving for and reaching perfection in all events and projects that she coordinates. Her creative organizational skills and attention to detail truly set her apart. She is consistently professional and her upbeat, can-do attitude is contagious. These traits help to make the CNHP Dean's office operate efficiently and make it a harmonious environment in which to work.
Kevin Montgomery
Kevin has been a Technical Services Coordinator for the LeBow College of Business since 2002, and he began his career with Drexel University in 2001. He was nominated for this honor by Anna Chrulkiewicz, Assistant Dean of the LeBow College of Business. Kevin exemplifies the FIRST principle “Succeed Through Service” by never failing to rise to the occasion when his services are required. His position often requires performing important tasks within very limited timeframes, and Kevin always comes through for the faculty and the students in the LeBow College of Business. The College simply wouldn't function as efficiently as it does without the dedication of good people like Kevin Montgomery.
Josephine Ottaviano
Josephine has been a receptionist for the College of Nursing and Health Professions for over 30 years. She was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Dr. Patricia Suplee, Assistant Professor in the CNHP. Josephine exhibits the FIRST principle “First Impressions Count” by projecting a positive image for the College of Nursing & Health Professions everyday. She consistently exceeds the expectations set forth in her job description. According to Dr. Suplee, students and faculty are always greeted with an enthusiastic smile when they enter the department, along with Josephine's unrivaled willingness to help. She is always cordial and upbeat, and never has a bad day.
Carmita Rutling
Carmita joined Drexel University in 2004 as Program Manager and Advisor in the LeBow College of Business. She was nominated for this honor by Donna Ferrari, Associate Director for Graduate Programs in the LeBow College of Business. Carmita exemplifies the FIRST principle “Succeed Through Service” by routinely internalizing the needs and wishes of LeBow's students. She truly believes that a student's challenge is also her challenge. Carmita constantly looks for new ways to serve the special needs of MBA students and candidates, and never settles for the status quo. She is a major factor in LeBow's consistently high ratings for student satisfaction.
Mark Shiber
Mark joined Drexel University in 1993 and has been a Director in the Hess Laboratories since 2000. He was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Dr. Bradley Layton, Assistant Professor in Mechanical Engineering & Mechanics. Dr. Layton speaks glowingly of Mark's eagerness to utilize his exceptional technical knowledge to improve the lives of both faculty and students. Mark has immeasurable patience for the large number of students who come to him with problems ranging from simple repair needs to advanced consulting needs. The pressure of frequently working under tight time constraints never causes his commitment level to waver. Mark “Succeeds Through Service” and the entire University reaps the benefits of that commitment.
Andrew Warden
Andrew came to Drexel University in 2004 and is now working as an Assistant Director in Retention and Student Affairs in the Office of the Provost. He was nominated for this honor by Kathy Funk, Director of Administration & Finance in the Office of the Provost. Andrew is an expert at using his status as both a staff member and a student to analyze both sides of every issue. He then initiates change to make the SRC better for faculty, students, and parents. Andrew works very hard to make sure that the opinions of students are valued, and that their impression of the SRC is favorable. The FIRST principle “It Starts With Me” truly applies to Andrew because of his passionate efforts to make Drexel a more efficient and more student-friendly University.
Lisa Williams
Lisa has been a Program Coordinator in the School of Biomedical Engineering since beginning her career with Drexel in 2000. She was nominated for a Drexel Salutes award by Dr. Banu Onaral, Director of the School of Biomedical Engineering , for her impact under the FIRST principle “First Impressions Count.” Lisa's customer service skills establish the benchmark for student interactions within the department. She goes out of her way to do the best possible job even under the most difficult circumstances. During the two years that the School was without a permanent home, Lisa was the one person the staff could count on to make sure the faculty had the tools and materials needed to maintain our standard of excellence. According to Dr. Onaral, she held the faculty, staff, and students together as a family when often it seemed that the physical distances that separated everyone could not be bridged.
Catherine Campbell-Perna
Since her promotion to Senior Assistant Director in Enrollment Management, Catherine has been challenged with lots of new tasks including our Transfer and Accelerated Admissions processes. In addition to Catherine's daily responsibilities, which includes maintaining our Alumni Program, she serves on the panel that is in charge of hiring new couselors. Furthermore, Catherine is responsible for training these new counselor once they arrive. While performing in a supervisory role with added general counselor duties, Catherine can always be depended on when the job has to be completed the right way. Lastly, she is able to do all of this with a smile. Catherine was nominated by Rashida McCleave, Assitant Director, Information Processes.
Grace Cheung
Grace regularly volunteers to pitch in wherever and whenever needed. Not only does she possess the technical competence to exclude the duties within her own position, but she is also very involved in many other areas within Enrollment Management. A few of Grace's extra contributions include but are not limited to: covering the front desk and answering telephones in Graduate and Law Admissions during their weekly meetings; being involved in the weekend coverage rotation for both the 2400 line and the front desk in Undergraduate Admissions; and helping to data enter Undergraduate materials during periods of heavy flow. Quite often Grace works overtime (until 8:00 PM) to assist with goals of entering supporting documentation for Undergraduate Admissions. Her work is admirable!!! She was nominated by Veronica Fish, Assistant Director of Operations, Graduate Admissions.
Michael Cioce
Michael has gone far beyond what is expected to provide service to each student/family he encounters in the SRC/FA. Some examples are: - Mike is often contacted by families who have a concern outside of the financial aid area, he always contacts the other office or outside agency and provides the information to the student/family. This is especially reassuring to parents of freshmen students who are from outside the local area to know that they their son or daughter has someone who will be willing to help. - Unfortunately in the past few months we have several cases where a current student or recent alumnus has died. In each case, Mike has collected the death certificate and contacted the lenders to resolve the loan saving the families from this additional burden. - A year ago the process of extracting loan information and sending it to lenders was not functioning well. Although he didn't have prior financial aid experience, Mike volunteered to take the lead on this piece of the financial puzzle. His efforts are one of the primary reasons for improved loan processing. Mike was nominated by Melissa Englund, Executive Director, Financial Aid Office.
Melissa Englund
Nominated by both Christopher Jackson-Assistant Director, Financial Aid and John Haller-Assistant Dean, Graduate Admissions, Melissa has reinvigorated the entire Financial Aid Office. By virtue of her tireless stewardship, the office was better able to serve our student body, delivering the Financial Aid our students require to be able to attend Drexel. In a single year, Melissa clocked hundreds if not beyond our regular business day to ensure that our electronic and personnel processes are reviewed and improved continually and consistently. Her efforts powerfully impact retention and recruitment for Drexel, and she undeniably deserves sincere applause.
Maggi Miller
Maggi was nominated by both David Chezem-Director of Technology, and Patty Kerill-Assistant to the Dean, Enrollment Management. Maggi is the front line person that all of the families come to when they are visiting Drexel. She has demonstrated outstanding customer service as she seems to always have a smile on her face, speaks in a very pleasant tone, and makes students, visitors and fellow employees feel that they are the most important person and that they are special. Her customer contact on the telephone is friendly, personable, and not scripted. Lastly, Maggi is a voluntary member of Enrollment Management's Employee Development and Community Building Committee. She is responsible for communicating the needs of the staff in Undergraduate Admissions. She understands when information is confidential whether it be for visiting prospective students or her peers. Drexel is very fortunate to have an employee like Maggi.
Ron Nordone
Nominated by Carole Luke, Assistant Dean, Enrollment Creative Group. In the past year, Ron has gone above and beyond his responsibilities by spearheading the project of the admissions effort for Drexel's new College of Law. He continually demonstrates his leadership and sense of vision. In his project approach, Ron embraced each of the StudentsFirst principles before these had even been formalized. Ron's creativity on this project included drawing up the enrollment plans and constructing a solid, well thought out foundation for what is sure to be a great success and leap forward for the University.
Leander Adams
David Ruth, Dean of Students, nominated Leander and shares this special story: A mother came to New Student Orientation and had parked her car in the wrong area and it was towed. She was scared, anxious, angry, and concerned. She came upon Lee Adams in the Facilities Services Building. Lee was able to ascertain where the car had been towed. He personally drove her to that location and convinced the company to waive the fee and escorted her back to campus. This is an example of service that exceeds all expectations, which can be found in his actions each and every day at Drexel University. Simply assisting her by finding out the location to which her car had been towed was above expectations. But 'going the extra mile' to drive her there and negotiate with the company was truly exemplary service.
Jeff Bonfield
David Oldham, Assistant Director in the Student Academic Resources, nominated Jeff and we paraphrase David's input: I worked for Jeff as a student employee and was so happy with him as a supervisor that I applied for my current job to work in his department and have not for one moment regretted this decision. As a supervisor, Jeff is fair, consistent, full of praise and runs a tight ship that puts StudentsFirst in every aspect of our business. He is dedicated not only to our students' success but to Philadelphia public school students as evidenced by his work with America Counts/America Reads. He supports my pursuit of further education, keeps me abreast of University changes and is dedicated to the issues that impact students' lives outside of school such as having children or life events. My coworkers agree that Jeff is a caring individual helps students and his staff out in almost all situations - not because he has to, but because he wants to.
Susan K. Dang
Susan was involved on a HR project that required the transition of twenty new employees from St. Christopher's Hospital to the College of Medicine. During the project, Susan independently handled and resolved a number of complicated personnel matters and provided excellent service while facing significant time contraints and receiving minimal support from the hiring department. This is not the first time Susan has demonstrated Success Through Service. She has effectively handled difficult situations and provided stellar service to managers, employees and students throughout the year. She continuously provides exemplary service by handling and resolving a wide varierty of compensation and other sensitive and personnel matters and situations. Susan has also individually handled a variety of important projects, meeting tight timelines and budgetary constraints. Her commitment, passion and knowledge allows her to provide a level of service that exemplify the FIRST principles and furthers Drexel's positive reputation. Susan was nominated by Tony Roig, Director of Recruitment, Human Resources.
Kyle Kephart
Kyle was nominated by Barbara Hoekje, Director-English Language Center. He answers phone calls or emails promptly and is always results-oriented. For example, there was a problem with the hot water in the building for months last winter and our main custodian-the most uncomplaining and hardworking woman in the world- started getting aches in her hands from having to work with cold water. It seemed impossible to correct, because of faulty temperature controls. Finally, Kyle was called in. Kyle was able to produce positive results within days. The end results: a happy custodian, safer sanitary conditions, happier staff, and students. More recently, Kyle has helped move things along with construction issues involving multiple parties with our World House dormitory (leaking roof). There are other examples too. Kyle is THERE. He can cut through red tape and he does so with a great attitude.
Stephen Koch
Stephen has served as Intramural Coordinator for seven years and has worked nights and weekends the entire time in an effort to run a first class intramural sports program for the students. Last year, intramurals involved almost 4,000 students! Not only does he establish leagues and tournaments, which he directs, but he is always willing to help with student employee programs in which he trains and develops student officials, first aiders and site supervisors. These positions are true leadership roles and Steve places a great effort into the "student development" piece of his employees.
Brien Kravitz
Nominated by Ad Van Hees, Manager of Mechanical and Operating Systems-Facilities. In order to improve the Preventative Maintenance Program of Drexel University Facilities Department, the Yardi software program was implemented as an administrative Work Order tool including Preventative Maintenance work. The implementation required a tremendous effort of data input of asset and work detail information before the system would be able to generate Preventative Maintenance Work Orders. Exploring the possibilities of the program to the fullest, Brien proposed changes regarding the utilization of the program features and the method of input. Due to this effort, an estimated 1500+ data input man hours were realized. Furthermore, a valuable feature for cost tracking data of Preventative Maintenance Work executed was made available for future purposes. This success energizes co-workers to expedite utilization of the system and with it improve departmental operations.
Kathleen O'Brien
Kathleen is an invaluable member of the ACHIEVE Center Staff and Department of Intercollegiate Athletics at Drexel University. She provides academic mentoring and advisement to nearly 400 student-athletes who compete in our Division I intercollegiate athletics programs. Two words can describe Kathleen: "teacher" and "generous". Her students know her as a wise problem-solver with an optimistic determination to help. She approaches her day with a positive attitude knowing that she has a purpose and can make a difference with her time and talents. She has been witnessed to say things such as 'you have choices' when speaking to student-athletes. Her message is about empowerment and resourcefulness. Most importantly, she is the consummate work colleague and is known for her respectful communication and team work. Kathleen is admired for the work she does for the University and she will continue to go 'above and beyond' to make a difference. Kathleen was nominated by Rebecca Weidensaul Gigli - Assistant Director of Athletics, Academic Services.
Rhianna Pearl
Nominated by Ellen Posner, Director of Benefits in Human Resources, Rhianna is a Benefits Specialist which provides her with the opportunity to interface with the entire University population. Rhianna is the primary contact for Drexel's retiree population. In this position, Rhianna provides hands on help to the retirees for enrollment, explaining the various options from which they must choose and assisting them in selecting benefits based on their individual needs. For many employees the 403(b) retirement plans are confusing. She always takes the time to ensure that employees understand the plans, assist them with applications and forms and, if requested, meet with them individually and stress the importance of early participation. Rhianna definitely goes the extra distance. She is consistently willing to go the extra mile to help employees and undertake additional tasks to get the job done. This year she provided the ground work necessary for our introduction of online enrollment for TIAA-CREF and Vanguard. She attempts to keep abreast of new initiatives and presents them to the team for action. She truly is a team player who makes all of our jobs easier. Rhianna exemplifies all of the StudentsFirst principals.
Alexandra Pelberg
When it comes to going above and beyond expectations, Alex Pelberg in the Office of Equality and Disability is the epitome! No matter what her assignment, it becomes her personal mission to do it expertly. Events that are well conceived, well organized and informative have been the hallmark of her accomplishments throughout her tenure at Drexel. Alex started "the Magnicificent Mind" arts and lecture series, which proved to be both intellectually rewarding and entertaining. As the manager of Inspire a Child to Dream Day, Alex not only planned the day as was appropriate, she adeptly handled the unexpected - ranging from employees who arrived with their "unregistered" children for the day to last minute scheduling changes. Alex also helped exceed the needs of certain executives from the Loaned Executive Training for the United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania when Drexel hosted this event on campus. Another University-wide event that Alex significantly contributed to was the annual Dragon Drive. From the kick off to the luncheons, Alex left no detail unattended. With her rethinking of how this drive was to be communicated to the University in order to reach more participants, Alex was instrumental in the overall increase in contributions made. She was also involved in managing all the volunteers for the CAA Blood Challenge and providing organizational support for the Employees' Service Recognition event. Alex Pelberg's accomplishments not only contributed to a positive Drexel environment for employees, but have enhanced the reputation and name of Drexel to visitors and to the community. Alex was nominated by Rhonda Karp, Senior Associate Vice President of Equality and Disabilities.
Jose Riera
Jose demonstrates the FIRST Principles starting with "It Starts With Me" - continually supports direct reports and staff throughout the Office of Residential Living; Jose always makes himself available to direct reports and students who have concerns or questions and goes out of his way to attend events hosted by student organizations to show his support for what they do. In terms of "Recognize, Respect, Respond" - Jose consistently solicits feedback from those within the department to try and make things run smoothly. He works with directors of other departments to find the best way for our departments to work together and does what he can to address situations within his realm of control. By taking the time from his personal schedule to work with students and parents in need, and by working with parents and students to find a solution that benefits both parties, Jose demonstrates the "Succeed through Service" principle. Lastly, he definitely "Takes Time to Communicate" as he consistently keeps direct reports and students within the department 'in the loop' as it pertains to important information. Jose encourages employees and students to voice concerns or praise at any time. Furthermore, he praises and delivers feedback to direct reports and student employees about their performance. Jose was nominated by Amy Downey, Assistant Director, Residential Living Office.
Maureen Wade
As a Special Project Director in Business Operations, Maureen's primary job responsibilities include budget management, spending analysis, and financial strategic direction. Maureen works part-time until 2 o'clock three days a week. One day, Maureen received a phone call from a military individual asking for a reference check on an alumni student who formerly worked as a Resident Assistant. This individual had spoken to many other Drexel personnel and could not seem to obtain the student's record. If the student's University status was not verified properly, he was going to be turned down for employment. Maureen stayed on campus that day through the 4 o'clock hour as she made many phone calls, clarified the issues, and found out the exact individual and department that could truly provide the information and documentation needed. The information was provided by the end of the day so the student could be hired, thanks to Maureen. She spent hours researching this situation, while she was no longer 'on the clock'. This was not the only time Maureen had displayed this type of StudentsFirst behavior. She is known by her peers as someone who always demonstrate care and understanding. Maureen was nominated by Stacey Kara, Executive Director, Business Operations.
Theo Zulueta
Theo was nominated by Phyllis Lewis, Senior Associate Vice President of Human Resources. Since joining Human Resources a year ago after transferring from HRIS, Theo has been a creative player in transforming processes and procedures in HR. His approach to his job continuously demonstrates the FIRST Principle - "It Starts With Me." He sees a problem - then sets about solving it. And not just little issues, he is completely eager to take on huge challenges, sometimes involving relationships with other departments. For example, by collaborating with various units, Theo was able to implement an e-Offer Letter Package process that effectively gets most new employees into the HR system before their start date so computer accounts and ID cards can be picked up on 'day one'. This has pleased both new employees and their departments who want their new employees to be immediately productive. Other accomplishments above and beyond Theo's job include: revamping the HR web sites for both Drexel and DUCOM; producing electronic and systems solutions to a variety of challenges; designing useful turnover reports; creatively managing two major budgets; and working with IRT and University Relations to produce electronic media for publicizing StudentsFirst and collecting feedback from employees, students, and parents (e.g. S.T.O.P, Contribute Your Ideas, and questions for the Town Meetings). Theo could have sat back and followed his job description - producing HR reports and little else; but he has found a way to accomplish his routine work as the background for outstanding creative accomplishments.
Ann Fulton
Ann was nominated by Christal Claiborne, Director of Student Accounts, Bursar's Office. Ann has been extremely instrumental in working with the Bursar's Office. She consistently goes above and beyond the scope of her duties to assist with customer service. She routinely jumps into the phone queue to take customer calls, and into Bursar email to respond to inquiries. There have been several times when Ann has responded to emails from home in the evenings and on the weekends. Secondly, the Bursar's Office staff can depend on Ann to provide information regarding billing inquiries and issues. She has impeccable problem-solving skills, and follows through on any outstanding issue until a resolution is reached. Finally, Ann exhibits teamwork on a daily basis. She is always willing to help with projects, run reports, assist with billing, make suggestions for improvement, etc. Most recently, she has given many recommendations regarding the Bursar's Office web site, and has worked to make improvements to the information available, such as the Guide to the Student Bill and the HES Payment Plan Brochure. Ann has been an encouragement to reach beyond the normal scope of duties to achieve the common goal of providing excellent customer service.
Eric Olson
All of our jobs here at Drexel depend upon effective communication and sharing of information both within and amongst departments. In the Senior VP for Finance Office, information for Trustees, students and the President's Office that goes beyond the usual financial statements and statistics are often needed. The information is needed quickly and it must be accurate. Eric is an Associate Comptroller and never fails to come through in a pinch. In addition to his extensive responsibilities, Eric is called upon to provide specialized data and other requests that assist in the financial decision making of the Senior VP's office. It is a happy situation when our office is asked to provide data that we know Eric can supply, because we all are confident that Eric will get what is needed and his work will be accurate. No matter how unusual the request, he can honor it - or offer a viable alternative that serves the purpose just as well. He is a pleasure to work with, talk to; and he exemplifies the excellence that Drexel is looking to promote in all of its employees. Eric was nominated by Holly Hollimon- Director of Special Projects, Sr VP for Finance.
Karen Thompson
Nominated by Kimberly Williams, Senior Secretary from the Provost Division, Karen's achievement can be described by Kimberly as: Miss Thompson has helped me with information on the processing of tuition remission for my TA's for close to three years. She always takes the time to listen to the issues that I have and informs me of processes that I am unsure of or simply have no idea about. Miss Thompson has also been helpful and always professional when helping me or the students that I have forwarded to her for billing issues. Congratulations to Karen Thompson, Student Receivables Supervisor in the Bursar's Office.
Nureddin Aberra
Nureddin, or 'Dean' Aberra has served Drexel University for over 35 years. In earlier times of his tenure at Drexel, Dean would process gifts during the day and come back to work around midnight to do a manual gift processing procedure. He did this for years. There were also times when he would come in early in the morning, around 4am, process one kind of gift type, go back home, have breakfast and then come back and spend a whole day processing another type of gifts. Dean also took stacks and stacks of Matching Gifts home to fill out and process on Saturdays and Sundays. The list of Dean's contributions to his workplace, Drexel, is too long to enumerate. He's a man who believes strongly in the values of hard work, family, faith, education, loyalty, and philanthrophy and for whom these values are an inherent part of his character. Dean Aberra is not only a valued 35 year member of the Drexel staff, but he is also a highly respected and treasured Drexel friend and community member. Dean was nominated by Pete Frisko, Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement.
Christina O'Rourke
Tina had been on the job only four months last November when the manager who hired her announced he was going to take another job. Tina was given the difficult task of managing Records Gifts and Stewardship (RGS) during the busiest time of the year, December, while they were looking for a replacement. Tina did an outstanding job - with more grace and patience that any one could have imagined. Tina works with many different departments at Drexel. She interacts with the Comptroller's Office, Financial Aid, Treasurer's Office, IRT, and all of the IA offices. Her work requires her to touch almost every part of RSG's business. She checks acknowledgement letters, closes batch, creates reports and most importantly she provides constituents with a lot of information. Tina works extremely well with others in the department and she is highly regarded. She is tactful and courteous at all times. Tina had also worked on the Donor Report last year after being on the job only two months. She worked on it again this year. Her recollections of how it had been done last year were invaluable even though she was brand new and she had many other responsibilities. Tina is excellent at training because she is so patient and she will repeat something over and over until it's understood. She has continued to do "whatever is necessary to get the job done". Tina was nominated by Pete Frisko, Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement.
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