Outstanding Service Award recipients announced

by Lesli Groth

Four members of Northern Illinois University's Operating Staff have been chosen to receive the Outstanding Service Award for 2002.

The recipients are Sara Clayton from the Division of International Programs, Chris Gilbert from University Programming & Activities, Nancy Schuneman from the Center for Southeast Asian Studies and Sue Stelling from The Graduate School.

About 1,750 employees make up the Civil Service staff. Each year, four individuals are selected by a committee of their peers to receive the awards of plaques and $1,000.

Here is a closer look at the recipients.

Sara Clayton

Sara Clayton

Sara Clayton, administrative secretary in the Division of International Programs, is described as "composed" and "efficient," and is known for going beyond her required duties to serve on numerous university committees. "Sara Clayton is an exceptional professional in her roles and responsibilities," said Manfred Thullen, director of International Programs. "She always has a pleasant personality, regardless of external pressures, and is a thoughtful and very compassionate person."

Clayton manages the division's Web site and created a new program for the Outstanding International Educator Award. She even solves employee relations problems as a representative to the State Universities Civil Service Advisory Committee.

"I've always tried to live by words my mother taught my sister and I when we were growing up—treat others as you yourself would like to be treated," Clayton said. "I always try to respect others' views on matters and see the other side of a situation, not just my own."

Clayton, who has held her position since 1996, has spent almost 30 years as an NIU employee, including 19 in the Department of Mathematical Sciences.

"She is able to remain calm and efficient during a crisis, and has the knack for passing her calmness on to others who are involved," said Mathematical Sciences Chair William Blair.

Clayton is a member of the Operating Staff Council and also organizes campus visits for delegates from overseas.

Chris Gilbert

Chris Gilbert

Chris Gilbert, production manager and technical director for University Programming & Activities, never seems to run out of energy. Often working almost 24 hours straight on the days of big events, Gilbert provides production and technical support for Campus Activities Board and other campus events, supervises the ticket office and provides computer support for his department.

"His enthusiasm, dedication and work ethic are unmatchable, and I especially applaud his attention to detail in planning the numerous aspects of events and activities," said Tekla Martin, director of development for Intercollegiate Athletics.

Gilbert, who joined NIU more than nine years ago, is noted for his willingness to work and his concern about getting the best quality equipment for the best price.

"He will do whatever it takes to get the job done," said Ellen Andersen, director of special events for the university. "If that means working around the clock or loading in and out of an event in the driving rain, Chris will do it—and without complaint."

Gilbert has spent almost 10 years with UP&A, and also supervises the Program Production Service staff—a group of up to 100 students who handle hospitality, security and stage set-up for campus events.

"I have a high level of pride in my work," Gilbert said. "If I'm going to be affiliated with an event, I want the presentation to be the best possible. But I will admit the 18+ hour days are a bit more taxing on the body now than when I started this job."

Nancy Schuneman

Nancy Schuneman

Nancy Schuneman, secretary for the Center for Southeast Asian Studies, possesses a "positive spirit" and "buoyant humor," despite a heavy workload that includes all clerical, secretarial and financial duties. Schuneman oversees federal and state grant reporting deadlines, manages paperwork, collects data for the U.S. Department of Education, allocates work for student employees and coordinates guest speakers and lecture series, among many other tasks.

"When Nancy launches into a new project, she does so with grace and great humor," said Clark Neher, Presidential Teaching Professor Emeritus and former director of the center. "The center's reputation has improved greatly because of her outstanding outreach."

Center Director Susan Russell said Schuneman has an "enviable reputation" among those who know her.

"I never go into the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences office without someone asking me, `How's Nancy doing?' Our Fulbright scholars and alumni often write her for years afterward, partly just to stay in touch with the center, but mostly to stay in touch with her personally," Russell said. "That kind of personal aura is her trademark. I don't know anyone with so many adoring fans."

"I think I'm proof that you can laugh and have fun at work, but still get the job done," said Schuneman, an NIU employee for 19 years and the center's secretary for the past 15. "I truly believe that finding the humor in any situation will help you in your job."

Sue Stelling

Sue Stelling

Sue Stelling, administrative assistant for The Graduate School, is professional and patient in the most frustrating of situations, colleagues say. She handles her work with "knowledge, tact, patience and sensitivity," said Graduate School Dean Jerrold Zar. "She routinely exceeds that expectation, even when faced with short deadlines or with confused, distressed or downright difficult students, faculty and others."

Stelling assists the dean with scheduling meetings, answering policy questions from various faculty and academic offices, processing graduate faculty forms and taking minutes at Graduate Council meetings.

"Sue Stelling stands out in my mind for her ability to organize and to communicate effectively with a variety of people," said Communicative Disorders Professor Nancy Long, a fellow Graduate Council member. "She always has a friendly word for people, which is a great accomplishment given the stress she is under on occasion."

Stelling joined NIU in 1984, and accepted her current position in March 1991. In addition, she has been a member of the Board of Directors for the NIU Employees Credit Union for many years, and served as vice-president and president.

"I enjoy helping people solve problems and make changes, whether at my job or through volunteering," Stelling said. "I always remember not to sweat the small stuff, and it also helps to have a very understanding and supportive boss."