Employee of the Month

University Career Services

Yali Pan is October Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 21:14:22 +0000

Yali Pan is October Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Fri, 09/26/2025 - 17:14

Yali Pan, associate director for engagement and assessment in �鶹��Ƶ’s Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS), started at George �鶹��Ƶ in 2020. For her contributions to supporting international students, dedication to fostering an inclusive campus culture, and commitment to student well-being, Pan is recognized as the October Employee of the Month.

Yali Pan, October Employee of the Month, and George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

Pan leads the engagement team in OIPS, managing programs such as International Student Graduation, the International Buddy Program, the International Advisory Board, and International Education Week. Pan also helped create a Lunar New Year event for the campus community.

“Yali has done outstanding work welcoming new international students to George �鶹��Ƶ," said Krista Uhrig, director of international enrollment partnerships. “She contributes to programs and initiatives that support the well-being, morale, and engagement of international students.”

Jonathan Carmona, assistant director for international engagement in OIPS, said that Pan has made meaningful contributions through her facilitation of the “Working with International Students” and “Name Pronunciation” workshops for university faculty, staff, and students.

"It is crucial that we foster an environment of inclusivity and respect, and Yali’s commitment to ensuring that names from diverse languages and cultures are pronounced correctly is a testament to her dedication to this mission,” said Carmona.

Pan’s colleagues also praised her exceptional commitment to supporting students from �鶹��Ƶ Korea. Last fall, she helped plan a celebration for Chuseok, a Korean holiday that is similar to Thanksgiving.

“Yali and I had a chance to collaborate on an event celebrating Chuseok at the local home of �鶹��Ƶ Korea’s former dean,” said Grace H. Lee, �鶹��Ƶ Korea coordinator in the Office of the Provost. “�鶹��Ƶ Korea students, Fairfax students who studied abroad at �鶹��Ƶ Korea, faculty, and staff all joined to celebrate this important Korean holiday together."

Pan operates with professionalism and a genuine ethic of care for the well-being of every student, according to Lori Cohen Scher, senior assistant dean of University Life. “This has been evident to me in her interactions with our �鶹��Ƶ Korea Student Ambassadors,” said Scher. “Yali works closely with this student leadership team, empowering them to play an active role in program development, peer communication, and outreach.”

Pan also demonstrates exemplary leadership within her team, according to Christina Lee, an associate director in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning.

“She leads a team of eight staff members, providing guidance and mentorship while managing daily operations,” Lee said. “She thoughtfully considers her colleagues’ contributions and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the product is of the highest quality.”

Melissa Thierry, director of regional campuses in University Life, commended Pan’s contributions toward creating a welcoming environment for all.

“Her innovative programs and initiatives have enhanced cross-cultural understanding and inclusivity, making the university a more connected and supportive environment for all,” Thierry said.

How did you come to George �鶹��Ƶ?

I came to �鶹��Ƶ following my family’s relocation back to the area. What truly impressed me was George �鶹��Ƶ’s strong commitment to its international community. As a former international student myself, I deeply relate to the unique challenges and opportunities that come with that experience. That’s why I wanted to join—to contribute meaningfully and help make a positive difference in the lives of international students. 

Best day on the job: 

When international students share with me how much our engagement efforts have positively impacted them, it’s incredibly rewarding.

What do you like best about working at George �鶹��Ƶ?

I really appreciate the energy and inclusiveness at George �鶹��Ƶ, where we’re encouraged to share our ideas and continuously explore new ways to support student success.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

I enjoy running, practicing yoga, cooking, and traveling.

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Topics

Office of International Programs and Services

Tyrone Johnson is September Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 18:27:25 +0000

Tyrone Johnson is September Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 08/25/2025 - 14:27

Tyrone Johnson has worked as the clinical laboratory manager in �鶹��Ƶ’s Student Health Services (SHS) for the past two years. For his dedication to putting students at ease, his work ethic, and his positive impact on the office overall, he is being recognized as the September Employee of the Month.

President Gregory Washington with September Employee of the Month Tyrone Johnson. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

Nandini Koka, SHS executive director, has found Johnson’s leadership in the lab invaluable. “He has streamlined our processes, improved the overall efficiency, and ensured that students’ needs are met promptly and accurately,” she said. “His dedication to student care reflects his strong sense of service and empathy, which is a hallmark of his work ethic.”

“Tyrone Johnson is all the things you want in a dedicated employee,” said Cameron Hoffman, nurse practitioner in SHS. “He immediately puts students at ease during typically stressful situations, such as blood draws or testing in general.”

Erin Wisman, associate medical director of SHS, said that “whether he is assisting students who are anxious about a blood draw or working with the clinical team to solve complex operational challenges, Tyrone's demeanor is consistently calm, thoughtful, and respectful.”

“Tyrone makes a positive impact just by walking into the room,” said Lois Doyle, lead nurse in SHS. “I appreciate his humor and ability to get along with everyone.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I followed a former co-worker here.

Best day on the job:

Every day is my best day because I get to do what I love doing. Today is pretty remarkable after receiving notification of this honor. I have worked as a laboratory professional for 37 years, and this is a first for me.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

My daily interactions with the students that come to SHS for care. I also love working with my workers and training them to work in the lab.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I enjoy cooking, traveling, and spending time with my grandchildren.

Topics

Student Health Services

Telecia Taylor is August Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 21:22:39 +0000

Telecia Taylor is August Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Wed, 07/30/2025 - 17:22

Telecia Taylor has been an integral part of the �鶹��Ƶ Honors College since 2019. Now the assistant director of student programming and engagement for the college, she has been awarded August Employee of the Month for her dedication to fostering community and providing support for her students.

"Every day I'm grateful to know that Telecia is there for our students,” Honors College Dean Zofia Burr said. “She designs fun and relaxing activities that bring our students together, and she makes them all feel they belong.”

Taylor and Dr. Washington during the award ceremony. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Anthony Hoefer, Honors College associate dean for student engagement, admissions, and administration concurs. “Telecia is responsible for developing and implementing co-curricular programs that both foster a vibrant and inclusive community and broadly support student success in the Honors College,” he said. “Particularly for our residential students, she is the daily face of the Honors College.”

Taylor also gets rave reviews for her programming from the Honors College students. One residential student wrote: “Telecia Taylor plans so many meaningful events that get residents engaged, and her presence is always so cheerful and welcoming. I can truthfully say that the events and trips that I have gone on with Telecia have changed my life.”

Her colleagues also emphasized the impact of the initiatives she has created.

"Telecia has worked tirelessly to enhance the first-year student experience within the Honors College. She has proposed and implemented many initiatives to promote inclusive and meaningful social connections and professional pathways for her students," said Nadeen Makhlouf, term assistant professor in the Honors College.

“Every semester she creates opportunities for our faculty, staff and administrators to engage with Honors College students beyond the classroom,” Assistant Dean John Woolsey said. “The interactive social events she plans really help to create a sense of community and contribute to a larger culture of inclusion on campus.”

“Telecia is the go-to person in our department when creating opportunities to engage with students. She has shaped an environment where our students feel supported and empowered,” said Jasmyne Rogers, associate director for student support and retention.

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I came to �鶹��Ƶ in 2019 after working in University Housing at Georgia Southern University. The work that I do with residential learning communities has a special place in

my heart, and with [this region] being home, I did not hesitate to apply for my position in the Honors College.

Best day on the job:

Witnessing moments of connection between students. No matter how big or small the interaction is, I like to see our students come together in community, especially while they are enjoying new experiences.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

I enjoy the collaborative nature of campus life. While working with my colleagues in Honors and offices across campus, we recognize that we are here to support the students and help them grow into the best version of themselves.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I like to find new dessert spots, especially if ube or matcha is on the menu.

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Honors College

Jenny Chism is the July Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 20:04:55 +0000

Jenny Chism is the July Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Wed, 06/25/2025 - 16:04

Jennifer (Jenny) Chism, assistant dean of Admissions, has been an integral part of �鶹��Ƶ’s Office of Admissions since 2021. She recently led the charge for the Office of Admissions to adopt new and better technology, which has greatly improved both George �鶹��Ƶ’s application process and the office’s efficiency. For her leadership, she is being recognized as the July Employee of the Month.

July Employee of the Month Jenny Chism with President Gregory Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

In their nomination letters, her colleagues emphasized her hard work, dedication, and positive attitude, despite her heavy workload.

“From the moment Jenny arrived, her commitment to enhancing and improving the applicant experience through the application process has been evident,” said Crystal Buckley, director of graduate admissions. “We would not be where we are today without her vision and dedication.”

Stephanie Lowe, associate director of transfer operations, said, “Jenny is not only a forward-thinking innovator but also a compassionate leader. She consistently demonstrates empathy and understanding.”

“Jenny consistently displays strong leadership, tirelessly works to advance the processing efforts of our large team in Admissions, and selflessly gives of her time and her talent well beyond what is expected of her role,” said Melissa A. Bevacqua, director of admissions for transfer recruitment.

Byron Whitehead, document center manager in Admissions, said, “She leads with mutual respect, trusts and cares for her team, and speaks up the moment she has a concern or can see an area for improvement. To put it simply, she is the best boss I’ve ever had, and I cannot imagine what things would be like without her.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I joined George �鶹��Ƶ from St. Louis, Missouri, where I served as the associate vice president of enrollment management at a private liberal arts institution. My journey in higher education began at the University of Missouri – Columbia, and I’ve been passionate about expanding access and driving student success ever since.

Best day on the job:

It’s hard to pick one favorite day on the job. Every day feels like a win when you see your team thriving. Watching them grow in confidence, both personally and professionally, is incredibly rewarding. And when the team is clicking, and the energy is high—when the vibes are right, as the young people say—it’s pretty tough to beat.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

I love being part of the education community because I know that each day, my work makes a meaningful impact in the lives of individual students and on a broader scale. I remain deeply committed, grounded in the belief in the transformative power of education and its ability to create lasting, positive change in the world.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me doing something that fills my cup; I love traveling to spend time with our friends and family. At home in Arlington, my husband and I dote on our elderly golden doodle, Bear, FaceTime with our nieces and nephews, and daydream about (or plan!) our next adventure, whether it's domestic or abroad. I also love to cook, bake cookies, dive into topics in counseling psychology and personal well-being, do yoga, and take long walks to unwind. Some of my favorite moments are the simple ones: sitting on our apartment rooftop with a charcuterie board or watching the sunset from the pool after most people have headed home for the day.

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Admissions

Joy Sobieralski is June Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Thu, 29 May 2025 17:08:42 +0000

Joy Sobieralski is June Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Thu, 05/29/2025 - 13:08

Since 2007, Joy Sobieralski has been an essential part of �鶹��Ƶ as the financial reporting manager. Before her transition to Fiscal Services, she worked as a senior internal auditor in the Internal Audit Office. For her expertise and dedication, she is recognized as the June Employee of the Month.

Joy Sobieralski's Employee of the Month ceremony took place virtually. Photo provided

Nusrat Sultana, director of financial reporting in Fiscal Services, emphasized the importance of Sobieralski’s work, saying, “she has played a pivotal role in launching several critical initiatives in the department and has consistently contributed innovative solutions. She ensures that we are careful stewards of university resources."

Amid significant changes in accounting regulations and the accounting department over the past few years, Teresa Klock-Taube, associate vice president and controller in Fiscal Services, and Claire Wurmfeld, associate controller, have found Sobieralski 's expertise and consistent dedication to be a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to George �鶹��Ƶ's success.

“Joy's expertise in navigating increasingly complex accounting standards and implementing new regulations with precision has firmly established her as a trusted leader,” Klock-Taube said.

“Joy is an asset to the unit and the university,” said Wurmfeld.

Colleagues also said they value Sobieralski 's willingness to go above and beyond to meet deadlines and to ensure that the university's accounting records and financial statements are accurate and complete.”

“Joy’s deep understanding of the university's and [�鶹��Ƶ] Foundation's complex financial data and rating agency ratios has been invaluable in ensuring successful communication of its financial situation to the rating agencies,” said Monica Michaud, now-retired director of Finance and Debt Management. “Her technical proficiency makes her an indispensable member of the team, and her work continues to have a significant, positive impact on the university’s and foundation's ratings.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I grew up in Reston and always knew about George �鶹��Ƶ, but it was after my husband started at the university and spoke so positively about the environment that I decided to explore opportunities here.

Best day on the job:

I look forward to the financial statement submission date each year because it is a culmination of a huge team effort and meeting the deadline provides a great sense of accomplishment.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

Definitely the people. Being surrounded by supportive, driven, and talented colleagues makes every day enjoyable and rewarding. Their collaboration, encouragement, and shared sense of purpose creates an environment where I feel valued and motivated to contribute my best work.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

My son plays baseball, so my husband and I spend a lot of time at the baseball field. He graduates from high school this year and will play in college, so we are looking forward to visiting new places and watching him compete. I also enjoy reading and spending time with our French bulldog, Cooper. If you’ve been on a call with me, you’ve probably heard him snoring in the background.

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Patricia King is May Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:47:05 +0000

Patricia King is May Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Wed, 04/23/2025 - 11:47

For the past two years, Patricia King has been the office manager in Research and Innovation Initiatives in the Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact (ORIEI). During that time, she has taken on incredible amounts of responsibility with ease and revolutionized the office. Her Employee of the Month nomination included nine letters of support from her colleagues.

President Gregory Washington with May Employee of the Month Patricia King. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“If ORIEI had its own employee of the month award, Patricia would have been a worthy choice in almost any month over the last two years. As much as any employee I have worked with in 14+ years at George �鶹��Ƶ, Patricia's daily conduct and demeanor exemplify integrity, careful stewardship, and thriving together,” said Christopher DiTeresi, associate vice president for Office of Research Integrity and Assurance (ORIA).

Rebekah Hersch, associate vice president of Research and Innovation Initiatives, said, “You know when you interact with Patricia, you will be met with graciousness and an openness to address your question or concern.”

David Myers, animal care program manager for ORIA, echoed Hersch’s praise “For the two years I have been working with Patricia, I have been very fortunate to have the support she brings to my unit. Patricia is extremely hard-working, dedicated, friendly, and supportive. She has always responded with enthusiasm and a smile even when I knew she already had a bunch of other tasks on her plate.”

“Patricia listens attentively to our problems, engages in thoughtful discussions on best practices and solutions, and keeps us informed every step of the way,” said Peng Warweg, assistant director of research operations in the Center for Advancing Human-Machine Partnership. “On numerous occasions, we had faced situations where new knowledge and skills were needed. Patricia takes on these challenges by seeking advice from experts or learning new skills on her own.”

Andre Marshall, ORIEI vice president, said, “Ms. King has provided leadership during an incredibly difficult time of transition... She has been critical to our continued support of researchers throughout the university.”

“Patricia consistently demonstrates exceptional work ethic and integrity by going above and beyond to support and help her colleagues. When I reach out to Patricia with a question about a process or adjacent office matter, Patricia doesn’t simply tell me what I need to do, she initiates the legwork and provides a personal introduction to the person with whom I need to connect,” said Heather Arnold, research development associate, who also called working with Patricia “a bright spot in my work week.”

Alison Landsberg, a professor in the Department of History and Art History and director of the Center for Humanities Research (CHR), said, “I’ve worked on a range of tasks with Patricia and in every case she has performed above and beyond expectations. We at the CHR have benefited enormously from her ever-growing skillset, and her positive attitude. �鶹��Ƶ is lucky to have her!”“Over the years that we have worked together, I found Patricia to be a dependable, honest, and enthusiastic colleague. Even in these times of change and uncertainty, Patricia manages to stay on track with deadlines, ensuring the ORIEI units continue to operate efficiently. She is currently supporting three large units under ORIEI which is an incredibly heavy lift!” said Heather Aleknavage, administrative assistant and project coordinator in the Office of Risk, Safety, and Resilience.

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I came to �鶹��Ƶ after 12 years working in the Virginia Community College System. I was excited by the opportunity to work with and support research at �鶹��Ƶ. I grew up in Northern Virginia and was very much aware of George �鶹��Ƶ’s excellent reputation and was particularly attracted to the idea of supporting the amazing research work being done by the university.

Best day on the job:

My best day on the job was the day I found out I would be receiving this award. I was very surprised, and I am deeply touched that members of the team I support took time from their very busy schedules to submit nominations on my behalf. I am grateful to work with my team and deeply appreciate this award.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

What I like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ would be the employees and students I work with. My colleagues are brilliant, professional, and kind people. Respect and kindness are modeled by the leadership in ORIEI, and they set the tone and serve as examples for our employee team. We support each other and work to help each other be successful in our jobs. I frequently work with other George �鶹��Ƶ offices, and I have been fortunate to meet many good people who are willing to help when needed and are happy to collaborate. Working with the student employees is also very rewarding. Our student employees bring energy and fresh ideas with them and are a joy to work with.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I love to read. I also enjoy puzzles and board games. I am a novice knitter. I love both cats and dogs, and enjoy spending time with my feline companion Louie, and my grand dog Rodeo. I love music and I collect vinyl records. I enjoy genealogy, and I am a big fan of Finding Your Roots with Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. I also enjoy UK comedy panel shows.

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Johnnie Hall is April Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:59:41 +0000

Johnnie Hall is April Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 03/31/2025 - 09:59

Science and Technology Campus machine shop manager Johnnie Hall embodies �鶹��Ƶ value “students come first.” The machine shop is regularly used by registered student organizations, researchers, and students alike, and Hall frequently works evenings and weekends to work with their schedules. He is also a mentor to Mechanical Engineering Department’s capstone design students, who often comment that they would not be able to complete their projects on time if not for his assistance.

Employee of the Month Johnnie Hall and President Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Hall also helped facilitate the department’s move to the new Life Sciences and Engineering Building (LSEB). “It would not have been possible without Johnnie's efforts packing and labeling, disassembling equipment, fielding questions from the project team, fielding questions from faculty, students, and staff, all the while maintaining a positive, collaborative attitude and staying on top of his typical duties running the machine shop,” said Leigh McCue-Weil, professor and chair of the Mechanical Engineering Department.

One notable moment during the move was when the loading docks were snowed in, and he personally began clearing snow until he could flag down a snowplow to assist. “Rather than complaining, Johnnie simply grabbed a shovel and began digging out the loading dock before the movers and riggers arrived,” added McCue-Weil.

“Johnnie has been a reliable ‘jack of all trades’ for the College of Engineering and Computing always willing to step in where needed in support of our strategic goals,” said Arthur B. Pyster, professor and associate dean for research in the college. “He was one of the first technicians to lend his expertise to �鶹��Ƶ's Nanofabrication Facility and the College of Engineering and Computing's Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).”

Joyce Rose, CEC’s operations manager, said, “Johnnie is exemplary. We wish we had more employees just like him! During Johnnie's time at �鶹��Ƶ, he has gone above and beyond what was expected of him.”

Johnnie Hall works in the machine shop at the Science and Technology Campus. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“In my mind, Johnnie can be considered ‘employee of the day’ every day of the year. Whenever you ask him for a favor, you can count on him 100%,” said mechanical engineering professor Nathan Kathir.

Volgenau School of Engineering Divisional Dean Ariela Sofer said, “I constantly get comments about how great Johnnie is!”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I started working at �鶹��Ƶ in August of 2018 as a part-time machine shop technician. Before working at �鶹��Ƶ, I had gone through a trades program focused on welding at my local community college on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. I jumped at the chance to apply my skills and learn more along the way. Since then, I have had the chance to be a part of some amazing student and research projects.

Best day on the job:

My favorite day has always been our Mechanical Engineering Department's senior Capstone Day. It's such a rewarding experience getting to showcase all of our students' hard work that I have had the opportunity to be a part of.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

My favorite part about working at �鶹��Ƶ is being able to give students a chance to try new things they might have never had the chance to. It's such a great feeling seeing our students learn new skills in our workshop that they can take with them in life.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

When I am not working, I enjoy playing music at home on my synthesizer. I also enjoy taking car rides in my 1985 Toyota Celica.

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Bonnie Madden is March Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:32:03 +0000

Bonnie Madden is March Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Fri, 02/28/2025 - 10:32

Bonnie Madden, a two-time �鶹��Ƶ alum, joined the Biology Department as the microbial and phage lab manager almost a decade ago while working on her bachelor's degree in biology. Since then, she has been an integral part of the College of Science department. She is known for her dedication to both the lab and fostering student success.

George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington and March Employee of the Month Bonnie Madden. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“Bonnie is an enormous asset to the Biology Department and to �鶹��Ƶ. She has a lot of great and innovative ideas that have enhanced the quality of the lab in many ways,” said Anne Scherer, term associate professor of biology.

Elisabeth Epstein, assistant professor of biology, said, “She is our go-to person to make our microbiology labs run smoothly and professionally and, importantly, on time and ready to go! Her extensive expertise is often relied on for producing high-quality lab materials. She often comes into the labs even on evenings and weekends to make sure the student experience runs smoothly.”

Along with managing the lab, Madden, who also has a master’s degree in biology from George �鶹��Ƶ, teaches a section of the Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) discovery-based research course, which teaches undergraduate students how to isolate and analyze bacteriophage. She also teaches a next gen sequencing course in the spring semester.

“Bonnie is a mentor to each and every student,” said Scherer. “She trains undergraduates, learned how to use the transmission electron microscope for the course, and she walks around the classroom and fields questions that students might have and works one-on-one with those struggling.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I came to �鶹��Ƶ as an undergraduate. My goal at the time was to set an example for my sons and show them learning is an ongoing process regardless of age. Right before graduating with my BS in Biology [in 2015], I was offered the opportunity to become part of the Biology Department by Dr. Deborah Polayes as a replacement for Jo Mose, who was the microbiology lab manager back in 2015.

Best day on the job:

My best day on the job was when I graduated [in 2023] with my master’s degree as my students and assistant lab workers were graduating with their bachelor's degrees. I was so proud of them, as I am every year.

What do you like best about working at George �鶹��Ƶ:

The thing I like about �鶹��Ƶ is all the opportunities it has to offer. The opportunity for growth and expanding your potential is limitless. Also, the opportunity to make lifelong connections is invaluable. It is up to the individual to decide what they are comfortable with and how far they want to expand their boundaries.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I have a broad range of activities that keep me busy throughout the year. Some hobbies tend to be seasonal. In the summer, I enjoy boating and gardening. Last summer, my husband and I were able to boat on Lake Windermere in England. In the winter, I tend to enjoy movies and painting. However, I enjoy concerts, traveling, and flameworking with glass year-round.

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Kenneth Darby is February Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 21:38:50 +0000

Kenneth Darby is February Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 02/03/2025 - 16:38

As the senior events manager at �鶹��Ƶ’s �鶹��Ƶ Square, Kenneth (Kenny) Darby is known as the one who can do it all. He has been a vital part of �鶹��Ƶ Square events since 2017 and has worked as senior events manager for the past five years. In their letters of support, his colleagues emphasized his ability to seamlessly manage complex high-profile events with precision and care, and his unwavering commitment, empathy, and attention to detail.

Employee of the Month Kenny Darby with President Gregory Washington. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“As an outstanding leader and colleague, Kenny consistently enriches the �鶹��Ƶ Square community with his positive contributions, supporting event clients to bring their vision to a reality,” said Sara Hawes, director of Operations for �鶹��Ƶ Square administration. “His unwavering dedication to his responsibilities, coupled with the empathy and attention he extends to clients, colleagues, supervisors, and students sets a commendable example for all those who have the opportunity to interact with him.”

Mercedes Allsop, executive assistant to the Dean's Office in the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School, said, “Kenny’s dedication not only enhances our campus environment but also sets a commendable standard for others to aspire to, truly making him a deserving candidate for this recognition. “His ability to manage high-profile events with a calm, professional demeanor ensures that each event is executed flawlessly.”

Alison Price, director of operations and the Law and Economics Center at Antonin Scalia Law School, highlighted Kenny’s skill with high-profile clients. “Kenny is the role model for how customer service should be provided at this university,” she said.

“Kenny is the ‘go-to’ individual when having an event at �鶹��Ƶ Square. From beginning to end, I trust him to ensure that our events go smoothly,” said Una Murphy, director of donor relations in the Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations. “He is friendly, assured, professional, inquisitive, caring and incredibly intuitive. I completely trust Kenny's judgement when it comes to a successful event.”

Colleagues have come to rely on Darby for his expertise. “Kenny has become an invaluable asset at �鶹��Ƶ Square,” said Frank Strike, vice president of Facilities. “He provides excellent customer service, and his attention to detail allows him to seamlessly integrate multiple complex tasks to deliver an exceptional experience to all stakeholders. His dedication and commitment to excellence is an inspiration to his colleagues and enhances �鶹��Ƶ's reputation.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I was hired as an event coordinator to help support events on the Arlington Campus. They were looking for a talented individual that had event experience and A/V knowledge, so I applied.

Best day on the job:

Every day is a good day on the job, but the best day was when I got hired.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

The people I work with and those I collaborate with. This community is very close, and I appreciate each of the relationships that I have built.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

That's a hard question. I enjoy quiet time. My days are busy when I'm at work and when I'm not at work, so the quiet times are the best times for me.

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