Four presented Presidential Staff Recognition Awards

Four College staff members were recently bestowed with Presidential Staff Recognition Awards at the annual year-end staff breakfast.

The selection committee received nearly 80 nominations for almost 70 staff members in four distinct categories: an award for a rising star, an award for inspirations, an award for service excellence and an award for citizenship.

“We want to express our very sincere gratitude to all of you for the extraordinary work you do every day,” said President Katherine Bergeron.

Rising Star – Recognizing and individual who has worked at the College for less than two years and has made a recognizable impact.

Kathleen Longo, administrative assistant in Residential Education and Living

Kathy, who started at the College in August 2015, was nominated first by a student but followed by many other students and fellow staff members. Having started at the end of the summer—the busiest time for the REAL staff—she was commended for “diving in feet-first and hitting the ground running.” Students particularly pointed out Kathy’s “warm, welcoming personality” and “positive outlook.”

Inspiration – Presented to an individual who excels at building relationships and motivating others to higher levels of performance.

Dulmarie Irizarry, administrative assistant in Unity House

An eight-year member of the College, Dulmarie has made Unity House feel like home—for students, their parents and for the entire campus community. She has a passion for her job and has built special relationships with students, acting to many as “their mother figure away from home” and helping many with their proficiency in Spanish. Dulmarie was nominated by 22 students and an alumna who recognized her leadership and guidance for coordinating “powerful and meaningful programs and events” at Unity House.

Citizenship – Honoring an individual who has enhanced the quality of life and made a substantial difference for the College community.

Michael Francis, cook’s helper in Dining Services

Michael has been at the College for 10 years and is a person students see in Harris Refractory every day. He’s amongst students as being friendly and approachable—and for his uncanny ability to remember students’ names. Michael regularly cooks meals for students who miss certain dishes from home, a gesture that “helps students deal with their homesickness and makes them feel more a part of the campus community.”

Service excellence – Honoring an individual who demonstrates distinction in the conduct of his or her responsibilities at the College.

Beth Crocker, Athletic Department coordinator

Beth has been with Connecticut College for 25 years, working in varying roles in Human Resources, Dining Services and Athletics. Her familiarity with so many offices and departments across campus makes her an invaluable resource to the College. A nominator called Beth “the face of Camel Athletics,” making the entire program run smoothly—coordinating budgets, transportation meals and hotels for student-athletes from 28 teams.