This week's edition of Inside A-State highlights recipients of the Distinguished Performance Awards. Susan Sanchez, graduation specialist in University College, is recipient of the Enhancing the Student Experience Award. Her job brings focus to student retention, and she is constantly developing resources in support of their success. Her nominator said Sanchez approaches each student need with interest, care and concern. As a result, students feel seen and heard when in conversation with her.

Susan Murphy, fiscal support supervisor, College of Nursing and Health Professions, is a veteran staff member whose impact was particularly effective during the 2021-22 year. After the retirement of the previous dean, her experience made her a particularly valuable resource to guide the interim, then permanent, dean of the college. The STAR (Service, Teamwork, Attitude, and Reliability) Award recognizes her outstanding performance this year.

Betty Dotter, who works for Facilities Management, is a highly valued member of the team of people who work every day in the Donald Reynolds Center for Health Sciences. Her award nominator said Dotter is a “nurturer, a caregiver, and a perfect example of a Red Wolf taking care of her pack.” Dotter also was recognized for her retirement with 29 years of service.

Megan Meese, associate dean’s assistant, College of Agriculture, received the Team Player Award. She not only helps with Agriculture’s daily operations and the University Farm, she stepped up during the past year and assisted numerous students while the college did not have an academic adviser. She also initiated and coordinated the college’s first World Cultures Day luncheon, which drew a very positive response.

Amanda Jenkins, administrative specialist in Biological Sciences, is recipient of the Rookie of the Year Award. After beginning this job in 2021, her quick move through the learning curve has been noted by faculty. In addition to serving as the department’s first point of contact, she books travel, assists uploading the academic schedule, drafts minutes for faculty meetings, and assists students and faculty members with various needs.

Bobby Burton, landscape and grounds division, Facilities Management, was recognized with the Outstanding Part-Time Award. An A-State retiree, Burton returned in a part-time capacity and manages all of the athletic fields. He maintains the playing surfaces of soccer, baseball, football and rugby, both the playing and practice fields. He also provides game-time preparation and support for each sport, including painting and striping the fields.

Congratulations to the Dean B. Ellis Library’s Access & Delivery Services Unit, which received the Team Achievement Award. This unit provides customer service to students, faculty and staff. This unit both opens and closes the library, as well as keeps it open during inclement weather and campus closures. The team is praised for staff courtesy, service speed, and thoroughness. Accepting were (from left) Tia Farmer, Erika James and Amanda Mosley.