This is an archival post originally published on February 12, 2016.
The University Library has awarded its 2015 Outstanding Employee Award to Jason Dalton of E-Resources and Serials Management. Honorable mentions went to Doug Diesenhaus of Library Personnel and Liza Terll of Friends of the Library.
The award, presented at a Feb. 10 gathering for Library staff, honors a University Library employee for excellence in one or more of the following categories: Community Service Activity, Commitment and Dependability, Creativity and Innovation and Teamwork and Leadership.
Jason Dalton, E-resources Acquisitions Specialist, was recognized as the 2015 Outstanding Employee for his initiative, flexibility, and exceptional problem-solving. Jason “epitomizes teamwork, diplomacy, and responsiveness,” according to his nominators. He anticipates and solves potential access problems before they arise, work crucial to maintaining the confidence and goodwill of library users. In one nominator’s words, “It would be hard to overestimate the significance of Jason’s contribution to the Library’s public face.” While his daily tasks may come with frustrations, Jason’s “cooperative approach is infectious in the best way, and has made him a well-respected and highly valued colleague,” wrote another nominator.
Doug Diesenhaus, Administrative Special Projects Librarian, was nominated for his servant leadership, coalition building, and guidance to colleagues, especially during periods of change in the Library. One nominator wrote that Doug’s “extraordinary equanimity, quiet strength, orientation to key details, and obvious respect for others are all evidence of an unwavering moral compass.” Nominators noted that Doug’s “priceless insight” and balanced perspectives were especially valuable to recent task forces on recruitment and retention.
Liza Terll, Executive Secretary of Friends of the Library, was nominated for her versatility, egalitarianism and community service. She inspires others with her “no job too big or small” attitude. Nominators commended Liza’s creativity, stewardship of Library resources, and grace under pressure in planning and managing Library events.
“She puts in an extraordinary amount of care and effort into an event because she truly wants everyone to have a good time and a good feeling about the library,” wrote one nominator.
Congratulations to Jason, Doug, and Liza!
