Western New England University (WNE) held its second annual Employee Appreciation and Recognition event on Wednesday, May 22, on the patio-lawn area outside of University Commons. The event brought together faculty and staff to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of the University's outstanding employees.
The event continued the tradition of honoring Western New England University staff who exemplify excellence and dedication to WNE. Four distinguished staff members were awarded the 2024 Staff Excellence Award, recognizing their exceptional skills, customer service, and Golden Bear pride.
This year's recipients of this prestigious award are Sr. Manager of Media Services William Arnold, Library Associate for Serials & Interlibrary Loan Deborah Beagle, Switchboard Supervisor Susette Curto, and Assistant to Non-JD Programs Carmen Alexander Blatch, who shared a quote expressing the philosophy that she feels she has experienced over her 40 years with Western New England University: "Train people well enough so they can leave, treat people well enough so they don't want to." (Sir Richard Branson). She delivered her message encouraging the community to continue to work together on one accord and to make the WNE work and work environment productive, pleasant, and beneficial to employees as well as students.
Surrounded by family and friends, each recipient received a certificate of recognition and a $500 award. Employee milestones of 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 years of service were also celebrated, along with retirees.
Both events included members of the President's Cabinet, who were present to personally thank employees for their dedication and service. Food was provided at both gatherings, fostering a sense of community and gratitude.
Previous recipients of the Staff Excellence Award were Receptionist/Admissions Operations Assistant Cheryl Haley, Director of Athletics and Recreation Jenn Kolins, Academic Coordinator Ann Marie Lovotti, Sr. Associate Director of Athletics Lori Mayhew-Wood, and Executive Director for Admissions Outreach and Recruitment Christopher Wystepek.
The Staff Excellence Award is overseen by the Events & Recognition Committee of the University Staff Council. This committee is responsible for determining award criteria, soliciting nominations, and selecting the winners. Western New England University remains committed to recognizing and valuing the hard work and dedication of its faculty and staff. This annual event underscores the University's appreciation for the employees who contribute to its mission of preparing work-ready and world-ready graduates.
