East Central Iowa News

The Staff Council recognized the following staff members at the Annual Staff Recognition Brunch, hosted by the Office of Human Resources on Tuesday, January 24.  

The Star Staff Award  

This award is given annually to an employee who has continually demonstrated that they are a star throughout their time at Grinnell. The staff member is considered an outstanding performer in their regular job duties, demonstrating quality work, professionalism, and pride in their position. They exhibit the core values of the institution by supporting the success of our students, a diverse community, and social responsibility. In addition, they demonstrate an ability to work collaboratively with others, as well as being reliable, dependable, and studious.  

Patty Amador-Lacson, associate director of admission and coordinator of multicultural recruitment in the Office of Admission, was recognized for her commitment to the institution and to the students. Her nominator shared that she excels in her daily work of recruiting students and takes particular pride in diversifying Grinnell College’s student body. Patty is an admission officer who has never been limited to thinking solely about the admission process. She also cares about the experience the students have once they arrive on Grinnell’s campus, after her role in their admission experience officially ends.  She counsels them on who they can turn to for support for academic, financial, or personal issues. The fact that students she recruited will contact her, even after being at Grinnell for a couple of years, demonstrates the powerful connection she makes with students. 

“Patty is an incredible representative of Grinnell College when she visits high schools or meets with families and guidance counselors. For the students who arrive on campus she doesn’t just represent Grinnell. She becomes the embodiment of ideals we espouse. She commits to these students and takes opportunities to help them succeed once they arrive here. She connects with students, stays connected to them, and keeps connecting them to others.” 

One nominator shared that those who have been around Patty have “experienced the attention, expertise, kindness, warmth, and wisdom” that comes with being in her presence. 

The Leading Leader Award  

This award is given annually to a supervisor who consistently demonstrates work-life sensitivity and support of the professional and personal needs of their employees. This supervisor empowers everyone to achieve their best and offers development opportunities for future growth. They demonstrate fairness and consistency in all actions; they communicate goals and expectations clearly and hold staff accountable while providing tools for achievement. This supervisor removes unnecessary barriers to accomplishment and assists with problem solving. 

Micki Behounek, manager of access services in Grinnell College Libraries, was recognized for her fair and consistent approach to addressing the needs of her team, while also making sure everyone feels heard and valued. She has demonstrated how to foster positive relationships among staff members so they can comfortably rely on one another, even though their paths may not often cross during the academic year.  

Micki’s nominator shared that she is very committed to finding professional development opportunities for all members of her staff. “She encourages participation in campus-wide events and learning opportunities. She does a great job of determining each team member's strengths and channeling us to develop those strengths while working to help us develop and improve in areas of weakness.” 

One nominator shared that Micki has been very helpful in ensuring work life balance, from childcare to family commitments and beyond. “I have never felt so supported and safe in a workplace as I have with Micki. She has stood beside me and provided a safe work environment for me to be who I am.” 

Original source can be found here.