18th Annual Employee Recognition

Utah State University’s 18th Annual Employee Recognition Luncheon was held Wednesday, March 30, and 313 individuals were honored for their service to the university.

Employees were recognized for their service, beginning at the 10-year mark, continuing at five year increments through a remarkable 50-year anniversary.  One individual was recognized for 45 years of service, four for 40 years and four marked a 35-year service anniversary.

Leading the way at the 50-year mark was William M. Moore, professor emeritus in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, College of Science.

During luncheon ceremonies, two employees were honored as Outstanding Employees of the Year. BrandE Faupell, executive director of USU’s office of Human Resources, presented the top awards.

Geraldine Child, staff assistant in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, was honored in the Non-Exempt (Classified) category as Employee of the Year.

As an advisor in the department, Child has extensive contact with the students who, in exit interviews, are asked, “Who has had a positive impact on you while at USU?”

Many graduating seniors specifically mention Child, her award nominators said. Students talk about how much they enjoy working with her, how welcoming she is and how she makes sure students keep on track toward graduation.

Her nominators said she has excellent advising skill and stays on top of everything. This, during a time that majors in the department have doubled in the past five years.

Child has been at Utah State for 19 years and is the “face” of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department for more than 230 students.

In her duties, Child also works closely with the department head.

“No one ever has to ask Geri to do anything twice,” the former department head said.

Alvan Hengee is the current department head who said Child’s excellent work assisted him as he transitioned to the department head role.

“I could not have imagined a smoother transition into the head position in 2009 than Geri has provided,” Hengee said. “It is a real pleasure to work with her every day.”

Roland Squire, associate registrar of the Registrar’s office, was honored in the Exempt (Professional) Employee category.

During his time in the Registrar’s office, Squire has advanced, thanks to his abilities and hard work.

According to his nominators, Squire has been responsible for many improvements in the Registrar’s office. He took the lead throughout the state of Utah in initiating and implementing the electronic transfer of transcripts between institutions, a time and money saving move. He also took the lead in the implementation of “DegreeWorks,” a new degree-audit program that is an exciting tool for students, advisors and administrators in planning schedules and anticipating curriculum needs.

During the university’s difficult budget times, Squire assumed the responsibility of overseeing the information technology functions in the Registrar’s office. Under his leadership, IT needs are being effectively met.

“Roland anticipates and identifies problems or issues that need to be addressed,” his nominators said. “He looks for alternatives and then proposes a well thought-out solution. He has been instrumental in improving processes related to academic record adjustments, course scheduling, graduation, veteran’s benefits, transcripts, verifications, reporting, degree audit and document imaging.

“Roland is an excellent example of one who brings commitment and dedication to his role at Utah State University.”

The luncheon and recognition ceremony were coordinated by USU’s office of Human Resources. The program included a welcome and remarks by David T. Cowley, USU vice president for business and finance. USU President Stan L. Albrecht gave a short introduction and F. Ross Peterson, vice president for University Relations and former USU history professor, gave the keynote address.