Four graduating seniors have received the University Libraries’ Student Employee Appreciation Awards for their exemplary work and contributions.
Each year, the University Libraries and the Student Library Advisory Board (SLAB) present the awards for excellent customer service, leadership in the workplace, integrity, attitude, work ethic, initiative or passion. Nominees must be currently enrolled undergraduate students and must have been working for the University Libraries for at least four semesters.
Congratulations to the winners!
William Cox, class of 2019, for his unfailing calm and reliability in the Wilson Special Collections Library
Over seven semesters helping run the reading room in Wilson library, William Cox has earned the absolute confidence of his supervisor, Susan Bales.
“The best thing I can say about an employee is how I feel when they are working and I am not around. With William, I know the research room is always in good student hands,” said Bales.
William registers patrons to conduct research, pages and reshelves special collections materials, and handles every project that comes his way with reliability and aplomb.
“I have never seen William flustered, nor have I ever observed him lose his cool,” even when solving frustrating problems or working in challenging situations,” said Bales. “I am thankful to have him on the research desk and working with our patrons.”
Heidi Garcia, class of 2019, for exemplary customer service, leadership and passionate ambassadorship at the Undergraduate Library
During four semesters of work at the Undergraduate Library, Heidi Garcia impressed both library visitors and her supervisors. Her cheerful attitude and positive outlook at the front desk “always leave patrons with a smile,” said her supervisor, Jodi Mills.
Mills said that Heidi has given exemplary customer service since the day she was hired. She volunteers to do unpopular tasks, such as going out in the rain to retrieve books from another library, and she fills in wherever she is needed.
She has been an enthusiastic presence at outreach events, such as orientation information fairs and the Undergraduate Library’s 50th anniversary celebration.
“Heidi is one of the most dedicated students we’ve ever worked with. Students like her don’t come around very often,” said Mills.
Louise Lindegaard, class of 2019, for her ingenuity and commitment in the Digital Research Services department
Louise Lindegaard’s positive attitude and willingness to embrace a challenge have caught the attention of everyone who has interacted with her at the Davis Library Research Hub over the past two years.
“When we have a project that needs attention to detail or extensive knowledge, we know we can give it to Louise because of her excellent analytical skills, inquisitive nature and expertise with technology,” said her supervisor, Michele Hayslett.
This outlook has led Louise to create presentations for the Liquid Galaxy Digital Earth display, master SketchUp software in order to build a 3D model of the library and use tools in the Makerspace to design and create a replacement panel for the collaboration tables in the Research Hub.
Louise has conducted summer research projects in Malawi and has conducted several humanitarian mapathons in the Research Hub outside of her regular work hours.
“We hate to see Louise graduate, but we know she is going on to great things,” said Hayslett.
Jacob Sawyer, class of 2019, for problem-solving and leadership at the Wilson Special Collections Library
Jacob Saywer has thrived on the challenge of working with special collections materials in the research and instructional services department of Wilson Library.
Putting anxious first-time researchers at ease and conveying complex information in a clear, calm and tactful fashion has been Jacob’s trademark since he began working for the department in 2017.
Jacob’s supervisor, Susan Bales, said that Jacob’s competence and calm demeanor have made him a valued partner on the research desk. He has helped to evaluate challenging researcher requests and has trained other student employees in the complex procedures of a special collections library.
“Jacob’s leadership is the direct result of his kindness, competency and intelligence,” said Bales. “He is an excellent colleague and truly deserving of this award.”
Thank you, William, Heidi, Louise and Jacob!
