Mary Strub

Mary Strub

Mary Strub’s daily responsibilities as the assistant director of the Center for Governmental Studies (CGS) can vary from extremes, but no matter what lands on her desk each day, she handles them all with expertise and professionalism, her colleagues say.

At one moment she might have to be addressing a leaking roof.

The next, she could be helping an international student with urgent paperwork.

Whatever she does, though, it is done calmly, professionally, and in an effective and efficient manner, said Diana Robinson, director for the Center for Governmental Studies. Strub is one of four of NIU’s Supportive Professional Staff members recognized with Presidential Awards for Excellence in 2019.

"I have been incredibly fortunate to have worked with so many talented, brilliant colleagues at NIU. They are an inspiration every day. It is an honor to be recognized by them and to receive this award," said Strub.

Robinson has known Strub for 10 years as her supervisor and colleague in the Center for Governmental Studies.

“She has developed a prodigious network of NIU coworkers that enables her to know who to call for assistance, and maintains good relationships so help is always forthcoming,” Robinson said.

Robinson says Strub has been invaluable not only at CGS, but integral to the success of the university’s entire Division of Outreach, Engagement and Regional Development (OERD) — as well as to the broader university community.

Within OERD, her responsibilities also are wide. She must support financial administration, personnel and contracts for 13 units, and develop working relationships with many campus departments needed to execute those responsibilities.

“The manner in which Mary [tackles] these myriad job responsibilities merits special mention,” Robinson said. “She is vigilant in ensuring accuracy and timeliness in all that she does.”

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