Finance & Administration 2023 Awards

CENTRAL WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION 2023 AWARDS

Table of Contents

Welcoming .................................................................................. 2-5 Inclusive ...................................................................................... 6-8 Knowledgeable ....................................................................... 10-15 Responsive .............................................................................. 16-23 Proud . ..................................................................................... 24-25 2-4 Wildcat Way Combinations ............................................... 26-36 Welcoming, Inclusive, Knowledgeable, .................................. 38-50 Responsive and Proud Group Nominations ................................................................. 52-57

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Carolina Barr Wildcat Way: Welcoming

Carolina was very welcoming to me as a new employee and has been nothing but kind, helpful and supportive to all students and her fellow coworkers. Christine Bowers Wildcat Way: Welcoming Christine is the definition of welcoming! Christine is the HR Front Desk lead and greets each person who walks into Mitchell First Floor with a genuine smile and a delightful greeting. She exudes optimism in her daily interactions with the campus community while helping them find answers to their needs. She also welcomes new employees on their first day and tackles the necessary required paperwork so it’s a smooth process for them. She goes out of her way to create a warm and friendly environment for all. Not only does Christine welcome the campus community, each morning she also sends the HR Team a robust email that informs of coworker’s work status (in or out of the office). In this message, she includes a delightful or motivational message, helpful trivia, or just a silly joke. It’s an enjoyable way to start the day! Christine Bowers creates a WELCOMING atmosphere, and we are delighted to have her in Human Resources. Teena Chase Wildcat Way: Welcoming Teena is always a welcoming face when entering the Residence Life office. Kelli Conrads Wildcat Way: Welcoming Kelli is a wonderful presence in Conference Services. She makes all of our guests and planners feel right at home here on our campus. Her wonderful work ensures that guests do not have to stress while here, and her open and welcoming demeanor ensures that everyone knows they belong here at CWU.

Welcoming Someone who puts forth an effort to make others feel comfortable. This is someone who reaches out and accepts others, especially those who are new, and makes them feel part of the group.

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Monique Gonzalez Wildcat Way: Welcoming

Teresa Vadnais Wildcat Way: Welcoming

Monique has worked in many roles; not only in Dining but also in HR. Monique's smile and warmth always makes her peers, students, and staff feel welcomed and her positive attitude and energy helps reduce the stress of working in the crazy world of Dining. Monique is humble and kind and always makes an effort to uplift those around her. Monique exemplifies all of the Wildcat Way attributes but in particular she is Welcoming. Shelan Kuckuck Wildcat Way: Welcoming Shelan is one of the most welcoming employees in Facilities! She makes a great effort to get to know everyone she comes across, learn their name, what they do, and offer help any way she can. Steve Pott Wildcat Way: Welcoming Steve is positive and exemplifies the Wildcat Way! Pleasure to work with. (3 Nominations) Charity Thornton Wildcat Way: Welcoming Charity is always welcoming and helps to educate others on the purchasing processes. Eric Twaites Wildcat Way: Welcoming I'm nominating Eric Twaites for Welcoming because he really goes out of his way to work with people, he is accommodating and helpful. Whenever I have a situation that comes up, he is quick to respond and always works on being a team player. We are lucky to have him apart of our CWU team!

Teresa is always a welcoming face on the 2nd floor of Mitchell Hall. She actively reaches out to faculty and staff with information regarding external grants and contracts and makes others feel comfortable.

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Kimo Ames Wildcat Way: Inclusive

Kimo Ames is the type of person who looks across a room, finds the person sitting alone, and goes to introduce himself. His most common ice breaker question is asking a student/colleague where they went to high school and then guessing their high school mascot. It’s amazing to see students faces light up when he guesses right, and they have formed an immediate connection. Kimo makes sure folks don’t feel left out, are included in on the conversation, and feel as though they belong. He’s great at finding the folks who might be outliers, the difficult to reach, the reclusive, and the alternatively friendly. He will find a way to form a connection and ensure that student or colleague feels enveloped by his kind and patient energy. Lisa LaPlant Wildcat Way: Inclusive Lisa is always thinking of ways to include and welcome others both to Central and to the Housing and Residence Life team. She is always enthusiastic about staff events and makes a point to bring both her staff and the larger HRL staff together for gatherings. She is someone who always reminds us to celebrate, whether it’s birthdays or other life events, and helps bring laughter to the office with her efforts. She helps make Central a great place to be and Housing a great department to work for! Cheyanne Manning Wildcat Way: Inclusive Cheyanne serves a wide range of constituents and groups on campus. She has been an advocate and champion for inclusion. The work she had done on the campus map has been very effective to communicate ADA access, points of pride, and inclusivity/diversity locations on campus. As a CWU alum, she is committed to an open, inclusive, and welcoming environment. Tricia Rabel Wildcat Way: Inclusive Tricia is always considerate and strives to listen to everyone’s input.

Inclusive Modeling the University’s commitment to diversity, this person creates a sense of belonging and community. This is someone who really considers other people and doesn’t want anyone to feel left out. Someone who invites others to meetings, events, etc. that otherwise might not attend or feel welcomed.

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Patrick Stanton Wildcat Way: Inclusive

Pat’s commitment to inclusivity, and the positive impact it has had on our team, deserves special recognition. Pat has consistently demonstrated a strong belief in diversity and inclusivity. His quirky yet welcoming approach has created an environment where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. Pat’s willingness to listen to the ideas and concerns of all employees has been invaluable. Pat demonstrates a genuine interest in hearing different perspectives, encouraging constructive discussions, and incorporating diverse viewpoints into decision-making processes. This approach has not only fostered collaboration and creativity but also strengthened the overall performance of Accounting and Financial Services. Pat’s dedication to building bridges across different teams and encouraging cross-functional collaboration has been instrumental in enhancing overall organizational cohesion and driving success. Thank you, Pat, for modeling the Wildcat Way and making our department a peaceful place to work.

Mary Torres Wildcat Way: Inclusive

Mary joined the Human Resources Hiring Team two years ago during a busy season and hit the road running! She is a strong teammate who is willing to hop in at any time to assist. She is eager to learn new things and more importantly, shares with others while learning. She checks with team members often (either physically or virtually) to connect about work then checks on their wellbeing, which normally includes her boisterous laughter. Mary has made meaningful relationships with various employees and departments across campus. She is an invaluable employee in the Hiring Team. She has built professional relationships with many departments across campus to assist them with their hiring and recruitment needs. Mary Torres is a dynamic team member, and we are grateful for her being part of the HR Team! Inclusive

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Michelle Adams Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable

Michelle has always been someone who goes above and beyond for the needs of the university, students, and staff. She makes the time to take your questions, explain in detail, and share her vast knowledge and expertise to make your project great. I have recognized on multiple occasions over the years Michelle mentoring students in a kind, respectful and collaborative way. On a recent project, I was able to watch Michelle in action; with meticulous attention to detail, she explained each step of the process. Samantha Armijo Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Samantha is such an asset to the Auxiliary Marketing team! She brings her knowledge of design and client service to her role making it a pleasure to work with her on campaigns and projects that require design expertise. She can generate ideas from very little background information or design direction and make it shine! She's always gracious with feedback and provides updated designs and final files quickly and efficiently. Her knowledge and skills have helped Housing develop a fresh and usable identity, and her hard work is greatly appreciated. Teena Chase Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Teena knows things, and if she does not know, she goes the extra mile to find out so that she can get students the information they need to know so they can be as successful as they can be. Teena knows ALL! Missy Davis Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Missy has a WEALTH of knowledge about CWU! You can go to her with the most random questions, and she will have an answer. You can ask her something, and she will say she hasn't done it in 4 years, but she will remember how to do it. The best thing is she is willing to share her knowledge. Missy wants to help people be the best version of themselves. She wants her team to

Knowledgeable Someone who knows a lot about something and is willing to share with others. This is someone who has developed knowledge and skills and uses them to help us all be more successful. This person’s willingness to share their knowledge adds value to the workplace and University.

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Ian Miller Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable

have everything they need at their disposal to make the best decision. You see her take the time to collaborate, train, and make sure everyone has what they need to succeed. Central and HR are fortunate to have someone with the knowledge and commitment that Missy brings to work every day. George Hugo Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable George is an important member of our FMD mechanical team. George's knowledge in the plumbing trade and abilities to accomplish jobs based on his wealth of knowledge is hard to match. George's willingness to share his knowledge with others is a key aspect in the success of the FMD mechanical shop’s success. George is willingness to guide and teach others and provide feedback to leadership on best practices and paths forward adds significant value to FMD and CWU as a whole. Genevieve Hutchinson Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Genevieve joined CWU in May and I have been amazed at her ability to comprehend complex accounting concepts and to put that understanding to work. In a short time, she has developed a deep understanding of how the areas that are supported by SURC Accounting work and has been able to share that knowledge with our student accountants, which in turn gives them some real context to apply to their tasks. I am very excited to see Genevieve continue to excel and to see where her path leads. Thank you for being such an important part of the SURC Accounting team! Jeff Johnson Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Jeff is always there to answer questions, impart knowledge about the University's mechanical assets, systems operations, and needs and guide employees at all levels of their careers at CWU. Jeff is always willing to step in and help out in any situation and allows others to determine solutions to problems, helping guide them along the way helping each individual become successful and build confidence in their skill set.

Ian is a great resource of knowledge; he strives to educate others and establishes standard operating procedures so that everyone in his area knows what is expected. Rhonda Schmidt Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Since the day that I joined the Finance & Administration team, Rhonda’s exceptional expertise and understanding of the University have been evident. Rhonda’s knowledge of CWU's intricacies, processes, and vision has been a source of guidance. Whether it be tackling complex projects, scheduling important meetings, or providing insightful analysis, Rhonda has consistently demonstrated her deep understanding and support of the important work that goes into keeping the University running. Rhonda’s ongoing professionalism and approachability have made it easy for me to ask questions and learn more about how to successfully serve CWU. Thank you, Rhonda, for modeling the Wildcat Way! Your excellence is an asset to the University. Stan Shields Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Stan has been a major resource for me with his knowledge about campus. Any time I have questions about work orders or moves happening he does his best to answer it and never makes me feel like I'm bothering him. Thank you for everything you do and keep demonstrating the Wildcat Way! Vené Skyles Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Nomination 1) Vené is always incredibly helpful. I can call her with the most random of questions, and she can always guide me to the answer or coach me on the best path forward. Whether it’s about student billings, or academic standing, high-level budget questions, or hiring staff, she's got the insight. I appreciate daily her vast knowledge of the intricacies of CWU policies and procedures across many departments. Thank you for always being my go-to, Vené!

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Nomination 2) Vené knows a lot about everything. If she doesn't, she figures it out, ask questions, does research, and doesn't give up until she finds an answer. Shellie Snyder Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Shellie has a wealth of knowledge regarding contracts and is always very helpful with any issues. Stuart Thompson Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable Stuart has used his extensive knowledge to effectively manage as AVP of Facilities. This institutional knowledge and understanding of state and CWU processes has improved service levels and responsiveness. His depth of knowledge serves to inspire confidence in his leadership team. Eric Twaites Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable I am writing to enthusiastically nominate Assistant Chief Eric Twaites for the Wildcat Way knowledge category in recognition of his exceptional performance and contributions as not only an Assistant Chief in our organization but also a parking king. Eric exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, dedication, and customer service, and his commitment to excellence is truly commendable. When it comes to customer and co-worker assistance, Eric consistently demonstrates his readiness to assist in any situation. Whether it's addressing customer concerns or supporting his colleagues, Eric's proactive and helpful approach is truly remarkable. He goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone's needs are met, consistently striving to provide exemplary service to both internal and external stakeholders. Eric's commitment to accuracy is unparalleled. He consistently completes tasks with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect is handled flawlessly. His commitment to accuracy is not only reflected in his own work but also in the guidance and support he provides to his team members. His

expertise and precision contribute significantly to the overall effectiveness and efficiency of our operations. In terms of knowledge and expertise, Eric is truly well- informed. His deep understanding of our organization's policies, procedures, and relevant industry knowledge is a testament to his continuous efforts to learn and stay up to date. He possesses an impressive wealth of knowledge and willingly shares it with others, making him an invaluable resource within our organization. When confronted with challenging questions or unfamiliar situations, Eric's confident demeanor and his commitment to finding accurate information make him a trusted source of guidance. Eric's communication skills are outstanding. He consistently demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills and a positive attitude when interacting with customers and colleagues. His ability to express himself clearly and concisely, coupled with his willingness to assist, creates an environment of trust and reliability. When someone seeks assistance, Eric's familiar words, "I can help" or "Let me find out," serve as reassurance that their needs will be met with utmost professionalism and efficiency. Moreover, Eric's commitment to continuous learning is truly commendable. He actively seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge and skills, even stepping outside his comfort zone to learn new technologies and practices. His drive to enhance his capabilities and embrace new challenges not only benefits himself but also inspires those around him to strive for growth and improvement. In conclusion, Assistant Chief Eric Twaites embodies the qualities and characteristics that align perfectly with the criteria outlined for the Wildcat Way knowledge category. His unwavering dedication to customer service, accuracy, and continuous learning make him a true asset to our organization. I wholeheartedly recommend him for this prestigious recognition.

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Elizabeth Adkins Wildcat Way: Responsive

Elizabeth is the epitome of someone who is responsive to others' needs and someone who takes action to assist. She continually goes above and beyond to meet the needs of students who engage with Dining Services by making sure the department's marketing is on point and the dining events are well-promoted and coordinated. She's always a joy to be around and an enthusiastic presenter when we share the stage at various Admissions events. She is kind and understanding when answering parent questions, and always does everything in her power to make a family (parents and students) feel at ease dining at Central. Gabrial Ashworth Wildcat Way: Responsive Gabrial is always a pleasure to work with. Whenever anyone needs help with something, he drops what he's doing and helps right away. He goes out of his way to find an answer if he doesn't know what it is. If he can't help or find the answer, he makes sure to direct you to someone who can. He is clear in explaining things and adjusts his way to helping according to the learning style of the person he's working with. He's always friendly, easy going and approachable. If I ever can't figure something out and have exhausted all my resources, Gabrial is the first person I go to. He's a team player and is always willing to do what needs to be done in order to make our team successful. I appreciate you, Gabrial! Dustin Atkinson Wildcat Way: Responsive Dustin is incredibly responsive in the work that he does! He ensures that guests are well taken care of, and their needs are met. When an issue arises, he is a quick thinker and able to troubleshoot a solution. Joe Bach Wildcat Way: Responsive Joe is always responsive to our multiple issues.

Responsive Someone who is receptive to others’ needs and takes action to assist. This is someone who meets others where they are, attempts to understand their needs, and goes as far as they can to help.

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Keith Jones Wildcat Way: Responsive

Missy Davis Wildcat Way: Responsive

Keith takes initiative to solve a wide range of problems for others. The solutions are thoughtful and timely. Keith makes good use of available resources and expertise to help others be effective in serving the needs of students, faculty, and staff. Elise Kiesow Wildcat Way: Responsive Elise is a teacher in the "Blue Room" at the ECLC, teaching 4–5-year-olds. Not only is she receptive, welcoming, and patient with the children in her class, but she is kind and patient with parents as well. Elise always takes time to check in and let you know how your child is doing, what kind of day they've had, and things to work on at home. She understands the unique needs of each child, and the unique needs of parents too! She's creative in a variety of activities that spark different interests for each child, and she shows genuine excitement about the activities, field trips, and achievements for her classroom. To conclude, she's caring and aware regarding her role with clients of the ECLC and goes above and beyond by also showing excitement and creativity while being responsive to the needs of those she serves. Jake Kuckuck Wildcat Way: Responsive I have had the privilege to work with Jake for 5 years now in a few different capacities. I am always amazed at how attentive he is to the larger goal of CWU by having the best interest of his staff, current and incoming students, prospective students, and his colleagues. He is met with obstacles every day and requests that I would think are impossible, but not for Jake! He takes time to listen to each issue or request and really listen, not just hear what you are asking and turn down the idea or suggestion. He is quick to think of and suggest alternatives to a request that might not be able to happen as we think we need it to. Jake is so calm under pressure and willing to help his staff and colleagues. When I know that Jake is going to be at a meeting, I immediately feel calm and know that he will be responsive and a guide through conversations weather they are intense conversations or just

Missy is someone you can call and ask anything HR related and she will find the answer for you. Always responds to

messages or emails. Genevieve Doshier Wildcat Way: Responsive

Genevieve is always so enthusiastic to jump in to help when the going gets tough. She is quick to respond and a great problem solver. With her amazing attitude and go-getter personality, she is a great nomination for this award. She deserves it and we are lucky to have her. Kirsten Garland Wildcat Way: Responsive Kirsten is always quick to provide assistance and deliver printing materials in the fastest manner possible, often days ahead of schedule! It's not unusual to get a print job back from Wildcat Printing the very next day, and during times when communication schedules are critical, this expedience is beyond appreciated. Kirsten is quick to respond to questions and always provides additional information to solve problems and point people in the right direction for services they need. Her leadership and responsiveness is amazing and a lifesaver when time is of the essence. Thank you for your amazing service, Kirsten! Chris Harrison Wildcat Way: Responsive Chris is always on top of it! He works hard to ensure that our vendors are paid correctly and on-time. Lori Hauser Wildcat Way: Responsive Lori is always willing to help where she can.

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general catch-up conversations. A few years ago, I believe it was Jake who initiated the meeting with Housing and Custodial Services every Thursday to ensure we are on the same page and it has helped our relationship with him and the maintenance team substantially. I have now seen him work firsthand with the Conference Services team and am continually impressed and thankful for his leadership. I cannot think of another individual who responds so quickly to communication and keeps not only himself but his staff accountable. I am happy to nominate Jake Kuckuck for the Responsive Wildcat Way. Lisa LaPlant Wildcat Way: Responsive Lisa is always willing to help and compassionate to others' needs. Nicole Martin Wildcat Way: Responsive Over the years that Nicole has worked at the Wildcat Shop, she has become such an asset to both the store and the campus community as a store buyer. Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge to the store that keeps the school spirit thriving with amazing gear that brings all customers from all generations together to celebrate school spirit and pride. Nicole can anticipate the needs months in advance to make sure what they need is in place at the right season and time. We are so fortunate to have Nicole working at the Wildcat Shop. Jennifer Mertel Wildcat Way: Responsive Jennifer is compassionate and truly takes the time to assist those employees in need of the FMLA benefits. She truly puts forth an effort to make others comfortable. Lindsey Myers Wildcat Way: Responsive Lindsey does a wonderful job to respond to requests and also help to understand what is being asked so she is able to provide the best results possible. Lindsey often provides helpful

thoughts and things to consider when making requests. Lindsey's work is professional and timely. Araceli Placensia Wildcat Way: Responsive Araceli is always eager to help and assist others. She is responsive to the needs of parents, preschoolers, and the other teachers at the ECLC. She is quick to assist others in any way needed (watching classrooms, helping parents with paperwork, and playing with the kids on the playground!) and always helps with a warm smile. She is a great communicator and is always fun and informative to talk to. She helps make the ECLC a great place, and I'm so glad she's on staff there! Ryka Russell Wildcat Way: Responsive I work with Ryka on leave and accommodations for her direct reports. She always demonstrates compassion and understanding to our employees, all while balancing the needs of the University and custodial department. She asks great questions and is open to working out solutions that work for the employee without putting undo stress on her entire team. Trish Swanson Wildcat Way: Responsive I am thrilled to submit a nomination for Trish Swanson for the prestigious Wildcat Way award in the Responsive category. Trish's unwavering dedication to exceptional customer service, effective communication, and her remarkable ability to overcome challenges truly exemplify the spirit of the Wildcat Way. Trish's commitment to focusing on the customer is unparalleled. As she oversees the police and parking operations, she consistently puts the needs of our customers at the forefront of her responsibilities. Trish ensures that all systems are functioning correctly and that customers are treated fairly and equally, going above and beyond to create a positive and seamless experience for everyone. One of Trish's remarkable qualities is her ability to block out distractions and remain focused on the task at hand. Despite the

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growing pains and challenges associated with the implementation of the new parking system, Trish has shown tremendous resilience and determination. She has tirelessly worked to ensure that all the systems are correctly integrated and that any issues are promptly addressed. Trish's ability to stay composed and focused amidst frustration and obstacles is truly commendable. Trish's readiness to assist is evident in her every action. She consistently demonstrates a genuine desire to make someone's day and goes above and beyond to provide exceptional service. Her positive interactions with customers and colleagues create an atmosphere of trust, respect, and satisfaction. Trish's willingness to listen attentively, understand the needs of others, and provide timely assistance has garnered her a reputation as a reliable and responsive professional. In terms of communication, Trish consistently exemplifies the Wildcat Way. She maintains an open, honest, and timely approach to ensure effective communication with both internal and external stakeholders. Trish's clear and concise communication style fosters understanding and collaboration, which in turn enhances the efficiency and productivity of our organization. Her transparent and honest interactions create an atmosphere of trust and accountability, allowing for seamless problem-solving and decision-making processes. Trish's dedication to "making someone's day" is truly commendable. She consistently demonstrates a genuine desire to exceed expectations and provide exceptional experiences for our customers and colleagues. Trish's positive attitude, coupled with her unwavering commitment to service excellence, creates a work environment that is both uplifting and inspiring. Her enthusiasm and passion for making a positive impact are contagious, fostering a culture of care and accountability. In conclusion, Trish Swanson epitomizes the qualities and characteristics required for the Wildcat Way award in the Responsive category. Her relentless commitment to focusing on the customer, blocking out distractions, and being ready to assist, combined with her positive interactions, open communication, and genuine desire to make someone's day, make her a deserving candidate for this esteemed recognition.

Thank you for considering my nomination of Trish Swanson. Should you require any further information or supporting documentation, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am available at your convenience. Teresa Vadnais Wildcat Way: Responsive Teresa's work product goes above and beyond expectations. She is responsive and timely when prompted with tasks and understands the intricacies of the CWU hiring process. She is an asset to the Post-Award unit and helpful to anyone with a question. Sara Williams Wildcat Way: Responsive Sara is the glue that holds our department together. We jokingly call Sara our “Office Mom” because she takes care of all of us. She keeps the office running and makes sure we have the tools we need. She does the quiet part that only gets noticed if something goes wrong (which is generally because of us). She always does it with a smile and cheerful attitude, even when we're asking too much too late. And she carries that through with everyone that comes into our office. She will help each student and each staff member get what or where they need. It sounds cliché, but she really is a joy to work with. We appreciate her very important contribution to our office and by extension to the university community.

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Michelle Adams Wildcat Way: Proud

Michelle Adams shows Wildcat Pride in all that she does! I have had the pleasure of working with Michelle on projects and her ability to translate abstract concepts into visually captivating designs is a testament to her outstanding artistic skills and keen eye for detail. Whether it’s a name plate or a mural, Michelle is invested in the best outcome for all involved. She is dedicated and real! Michelle genuinely loves Central Washington University and has dedicated her years of experience fortifying our Wildcat brand with her talents while wholeheartedly living the vision and mission! Her strong understanding of our brand identity has resulted in visually stunning and effective designs that have left a lasting impression on perspective students, current students, and alumni. Students, staff, and faculty can all rely on Michelle to help radiate Wildcat pride with her incredible work and quality products! Thank you, Michelle!

Proud Someone who wholeheartedly believes in CWU's mission to be a model learning community of equity and belonging and vibrantly shows support through action and speech. (Go Wildcats!)

Staci Sleigh-Layman Wildcat Way: Proud

Staci has displayed an unparalleled level of pride in her work to advance CWU’s vision to be a model learning community of equity and belonging.

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Welcoming Someone who puts forth an effort to make others feel comfortable. This is someone who reaches out and accepts others, especially those who are new, and makes them feel part of the group. Inclusive Modeling the University's commitment to diversity, this person creates a sense of belonging and community. This is someone who really considers other people and doesn’t want anyone to feel left out. Someone who invites others to meetings, events, etc. that otherwise might not attend or feel welcomed. Knowledgeable Someone who knows a lot about something and is willing to share with others. This is someone who has developed knowledge and skills and uses them to help us all be more successful. This person’s willingness to share their knowledge adds value to the workplace and University. Responsive Someone who is receptive to others’ needs and takes action to assist. This is someone who meets others where they are, attempts to understand their needs, and goes as far as they can to help. Proud Someone who wholeheartedly believes in CWU's mission to be a model learning community of equity and belonging and vibrantly shows support through action and speech. (Go Wildcats!)

Kerry Anderson Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Responsive, Proud

Kerry’s dedication and hard work as a custodian, matched with her positive attitude, is much appreciated, and models the Wildcat Way attributes of Responsive, Proud, and Welcoming. Kerry’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a clean and organized environment has not gone unnoticed, and I am truly grateful for all that she does. It is not just Kerry’s exceptional skills that impress me; it is the genuine care and pride she takes in her work. It is evident that Kerry views her role as more than just a job; she sees it as an opportunity to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. Kerry always smiles and greets people with a “Hello Sunshine!” – it makes my day! Her professionalism and friendly demeanor have left a lasting impression on everyone within Mitchell Hall. Thank you, Kerry, for modeling the Wildcat Way! You are a true asset to CWU. Janet Arentzen Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable, Responsive Janet has really moved the budget and reporting pieces into the next phase with her abilities in CatPlan. I am lucky enough to work with her in the system and she is always responsive to emails and messages. It really is helpful, and I want to make sure we appreciate all her hard work on getting the system ready for all of CWU campus. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and always being so helpful! Dawn Danton Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable, Responsive Nomination 1) Dawn is invaluable when it comes to her knowledge of the Wildcat Shop and its accounting practices. She is often referred to as Siri because you can ask her anything pertaining to the Wildcat Shop and she knows the answer or will be able to find it out. She is responsive to customer's questions and needs, solving issues quickly with a smile on her face. A recent example of her expertise is at commencement the registers were not working correctly and sales were being done by hand. Staff took pictures of items that were being sold for inventory purposes and putting the sales through the credit card machine.

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Chris Everett Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive, Knowledgeable Chris is always friendly and jokes around with others. You can't miss him with his vibrantly patterned shirts which bring smiles to those around him; especially when he's rocking a new one! He is a union representative so many people are welcomed to CWU on their first day by meeting him. José Fernandez- Martinez Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive, Proud Each morning when I walk to work, I see José working on the grounds and giving his all to care for the campus. Regardless of the task at hand, José always takes a moment to wave hello and smile from afar. His presence is very welcoming and inclusive; it is a highlight to my morning to be greeted by José. I am sure others feel the same as I see José offering a friendly greeting to all passing by. I enjoy seeing the lush, expansive campus and am so grateful for the continuous effort that goes into making CWU a location of natural beauty. It's clear that José is proud to work for CWU and make the grounds a clean and well-kept place for others to enjoy. Thank you, José, for living the Wildcat Way! Eric Galbraith Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable, Responsive He is responsive and knowledgeable. He is the big brother and anchor of his work team and listens deeply, guides you to resources and will share his experiences when asked. He is responsive to all customers internal to the department and institution, in numerous ways; sometimes just listening and guiding you to the solution you had already identified and just needed to say out loud, sharing his insight and knowledge based on his expansive experience or working on solution with you. He meets you where you are with patience, deep care, professionalism, and wisdom. Dave Hall Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Knowledgeable, Responsive, Proud Nomination 1) Dave has a great attitude and is always willing to make someone feel welcomed. He will respond to

It was new staff, and some items were charged to the wrong tender and others were collected and put into the register without being rang out. There were a large number of sales that needed to be reconciled and Dawn was able to match up products with sales receipts for the two hundred plus items that there were questions on, figure out which products were not rung up and get them rung so that everything matched. This was a huge undertaking and Dawn was able to reconcile this within two days because of her knowledge of the products and pricing. She worked on this as if it were a puzzle, fitting the pieces together until it was finished and did so with humor. Dawn is a treasure to the Wildcat Shop and customers. Nomination 2) Dawn has worked at the Wildcat Shop for many years. The wealth of knowledge that she has gained from her time at Central is so valuable. If Dawn doesn’t have the immediate answer, she will diligently work to figure it out or find the resource that will help to answer the countless questions brought to her. She always wants the best for everyone and will not stop until there is either a resolution or an answer. Jeremiah Eilers Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable, Responsive Nomination 1) Jeremiah brings a wide breadth of knowledge and is willing to share that knowledge with FMD staff and others to help them better understand processes and to be successful in their jobs. His willingness to go above and beyond to help CWU be successful is evident every day. He can pivot on a dime to address multiple issues or things that come up in a day and work with others to resolve situations. His enthusiasm about work is contagious. The positive energy that surrounds him helps to transfer to others. Nomination 2) Jeremiah is extremely knowledgeable and shares that knowledge with everyone around him to help them be successful in their support of the university. He is quick to recognize and take action when someone needs help.

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JoAnn Hundtoft Wildcat Way: Inclusive, Knowledgeable, Responsive JoAnn has been Director of Employee Services since 2018. During that time, she has changed the face of labor relations at CWU in many positive ways. She collaborates in negotiations, leading the CWU administrative team. She has earned the respect of leaders, co-workers, and those she works with most closely. JoAnn has taken initiative to enhance her own understanding of diversity, equity and belonging. We are lucky to have JoAnn as a leader in HR and FA, and at CWU. Candy Jensen Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Responsive, Proud Candy says hi to all the new students or staff she comes across welcoming them to CWU. She is quick to adjust to plan changes and jump in wherever she can to offer help. If there is a leak or overflow, she is first to respond with gathering up equipment and going to tackle it. Keith Jones Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Knowledgeable, Responsive Keith has worked at CWU for over 39 years and is an incredible asset to FMD and Capital Planning & Projects. He is always there to help with any problem (no matter how big or small) and takes pride in what he does and follows every task through to the end. Keith is one of the most welcoming employees in Jongeward and takes the time to check in on co-workers when they might be having a tough time. Keith is constantly juggling many projects and does an amazing job keeping FMD/CPP connected to IS to make sure everyone is on the same page. Dave Kopczynski Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable, Responsive, Proud Nomination 1) Dave has 25 years of experience and knowledge of the University. He is quick to respond to requests and will reach out to the client. He takes personal pride in the quality of work he provides to the campus. Nomination 2) Dave has kept the environmental controls in buildings, new and old, working day in and day out at CWU. His

requests as quickly as possible and will always reach out to the client. He is always gaining knowledge and takes great pride in his commitment to the campus. Nomination 2) David is a critical member of FMD. He is always looking to contribute and work with others to make every project successful. He is a team player who is friendly and welcoming. His knowledge of construction, maintenance and project management has made him a valuable asset to FMD and the larger CWU community. Heather Harrell Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable, Responsive We have worked with Heather on our library grants for years. She is highly knowledgeable about many CWU processes, including specific grant processes. She is quick to respond to our inquiries and goes the extra step to partner with us. Heather is a professional in her field. We have a great sense of security when we are working with her. We appreciate her high level of expertise as well as the care that she has for us and CWU. Lori Hauser Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Knowledgeable, Responsive Lori is amazing. She helped me learn contracting processes, how to make complex purchases, and how to host events on campus. Together we dealt with some stressful situations, but her knowledge, quick responses, and positive demeanor made the contracting process smooth. Lori is extremely detail oriented and helped avoid potential issues. She is able to identify and provide solutions to make operations move forward. I look forward to continuing to work with Lori in the future. Huge THANK YOU for everything you do. Dale Hubbard Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive, Proud Dale is very welcoming, and the students know who he is and he them; he knows their names and talks to them and invests in the students.

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knowledge base is unsurpassed. He is always responsive to the needs and concerns of departments even when a solution is not easily attained. He will be greatly missed in the EMCS shop, but his experience and personality will be invaluable in his new position with Capital projects. Katie Look Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive, Knowledgeable, Responsive Nomination 1) Katie always demonstrates her inclusivity and responsiveness towards internal and external customers. She is very quick to respond to any question or issue that may arise and makes the customer feel welcomed and inclusive. Katie works very hard at understanding and obtaining as much knowledge as she can to assist in whatever issue may arise. If she does not know an answer, she will make sure she connects with the right people instead of forwarding the customer around. She is very consistent in following up with the customer to make sure the outcome matched the expectation. Nomination 2) Katie always has a smile on her face! She is always happy to see you. I've never seen her get flustered when under stress, only smile through it. I have worked at CWU for years, but I still go to her for help. She is very knowledgeable for her age and short time she has worked at CWU. I can always trust her to get the job done and done quickly! She is truly amazing! Nomination 3) I've reached out to Katie a few times with some questionable charges and every time she is so quick to respond. She not only responds in a very quick manner, she also delivers a resolution in a timely manner. She doesn't hesitate to reach out to the appropriate people who may have the answers. Even though I haven't met her in person, she is so friendly through email and I make sure to reach out to her first with any questions I may have. Shane Rhoden Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Knowledgeable, Responsive, Proud Shane always welcomes new employees with a positive attitude. He brings vast knowledge and skillset to the University.

He will respond to all requests and always likes to contact the client personally. He takes pride in his work. Evan Roe Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive Evan, as a newer employee with in FMD, immediately took a supportive role with our new student and temp hires for the summer. Evan is always willing to reach out to others that are new and helps bring them into the group. He creates a welcoming and supportive environment through his open demeanor and willingness to include others. Erin Sargent Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive, Knowledgeable Erin Sargent highlights the Wildcat Way with her outstanding knowledge, bubbly demeanor, and genuine inclusiveness. Her go-getter attitude and quality contributions have made a significant, positive impact on our team. Erin is always warm and approachable; she is constantly reaching out to students and staff members just to see how they are doing, provide guidance, or provide technical help. Her depth of knowledge in accounting, state reporting, fiscal notes, and financial statements is truly commendable, and her willingness to share that knowledge has greatly enhanced the success of the University. Erin’s patience and willingness to help others, even during busy periods, are qualities that set her apart. Her positive attitude and enthusiasm create an atmosphere where everyone feels valued, supported, and motivated to give their best. Thank you, Erin, for modeling the Wildcat Way! Tina Short Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable, Responsive Tina steps up to take on any project or challenge presented to her. She takes initiative and is always willing to help everyone around her. Her knowledge in systems, processes and change management make her an extremely valuable member of the CWU community.

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Erin Slaughter Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive, Knowledgeable, Responsive Erin stepped into a new position with a steep learning curve. She learned new processes in a short amount of time and quickly became a reliable team member. She is always friendly, willing to help her team and guests in any way she can and is eager to learn new information related to her position and our department. Her kind attitude is a breath of fresh air and a powerful tool as we often receive guests at our department that are distressed or upset. We are fortunate to have a supportive and knowledgeable team member like Erin adding quality to our programs every day. Shellie Snyder Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive, Knowledgeable, Responsive Nomination 1) Shellie demonstrates her welcoming, knowledgeable and responsiveness on a daily basis. She is friendly and compassionate to all she comes in contact with. She says hello to all who walk past her workstation and has a warm smile and a quick laugh. When others need assistance, she is quick to jump in and offer help. If she doesn't have the knowledge needed, she either finds a solution or connects individuals who can assist. Her warm and friendly attitude helps to build a team where everyone feels included and a valued member, regardless of what role they have on the team or what their background is. Shellie really demonstrates the Wildcat Attributes. Nomination 2) Shellie Snyder is a fantastic example of Welcoming, Knowledgeable, and particularly Responsive. What will the university do when Shellie retires in June 2024?? She is an extraordinary employee, going above and beyond in her “job” to assist because she wants, to provide excellent service to others. Because of her many years of service, she is a wealth of knowledge and can answer almost any question that some from her out of the blue. She effortlessly responds to dozens of emails each day, ensuring that each have been addressed because she understands and respects that everyone’s time is important. I am very grateful to have Shellie on my side as a colleague and as my

friend. I and many, many people on campus feel her titanic efforts should be recognized. Thank you, Shellie, we will miss you! Jenny Solverson Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Inclusive, Proud Jenny is always welcoming to the students no matter where she is located, she makes an effort to get to know the students and always says HAPPY whatever day it is, like Today August 8th, it would be Happy Tuesday and wears shirts with this saying. She is also a proud member of the CWU staff. Students often come back to see her and say hi because of the difference she made in their life. One will never know how many students she helped CWU retained because of her HAPPY whatever day it is. She cares and is very deserving of being honored. She is retiring in September 2023. Happy Retirement Jenny! Trish Swanson Wildcat Way: Knowledgeable, Responsive Trish has always been willing to help out when needed. As our office has altered and progressed, she is the one we all lean on for her willingness to help out and get things done! Our office would never function properly without her help and extensive knowledge! Steve Wenger Wildcat Way: Welcoming, Knowledgeable, Responsive Steve has been the store director of the Wildcat Shop for many years. His years working at Central have aided in his extensive knowledge of many things Central. He is always willing to stop whatever he is doing to help someone out. He has a heart for people and always goes out of his way to make others feel valued and welcome. He is an advocate for all, and his goal has always been to provide the best customer service. Steve is a true example of the Wildcat Way.

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