At the first home football game this Saturday, Sept. 13, Austin Peay Athletics will honor the University's Unsung Staff Heroes. This award recognizes persons or professionals who have demonstrated consistent or outstanding service in their community and whose commitment has been in furthering to make Austin Peay one of the Top 100 "Great Colleges to Work For" for the third straight year.
Rose Austin, Office of the Bursar
Nominated by four of her peers, Rose Austin has been called the "backbone" of the Bursar Office by all.
"Rose is the Bursar and guides all of our department in how we are going to make it easiest for students to pay and confirm classes in a timely manner. She doesn't follow a traditional work schedule – you will find her in her office early, late, or even on weekends if need be – not to mention she works countless hours from home (trust me, I've gotten the emails from her late into the night). – Shanon Manly
Aside from the long hours put in at her desk, she teaches two APSU 1000 classes while also driving an hour each way to be on campus. It's this kind of determination that makes her a true unsung hero.
"She is a positive role model and example to all willing to learn. We would be lost without her leadership." – Becky Kiser
Johnathan Button, Student Financial Aid
Even when he isn't working from his office at Financial Aid services, Jonathan Button works to make improvements to the department in his personal time.
"Johnathan helped build software we utilize in the student financial aid lobby that allows the department to track the number of times a student has visited the department, the reason why, and how long they waited to be seen. This helps management greatly to ensure operations and procedures are working properly." – Beverly Boggs
It's a small creation like this that does wonders to help things flow much easier.
Carrie Harris, Office of the VP for Finance
While working in the finance department, Carrie Harris is as professional and service-oriented as they come.
She may be away from students, for the most part, but always finds ways to interact with them.
"Carrie knows they are the life blood of Austin Peay and goes out of her way to support Student Affairs staff and other personnel who pave the way for student success." – Martha Harper
In addition, she has joined the steering committee for Govs Trail to Success, a job she was not required to do.
"Carrie reaches beyond helping her department and seeks to make an impact on Austin Peay, while also pursuing her own degree which was conferred on Aug. 8 this year." – Martha Harper
June D. Lee, College of Graduate Studies
June D. Lee began her career at APSU as the Administrative Assistant to the Dean, but fast forward 20 years later, and you'll find her serving as the Graduate Admissions Coordinator.
She doesn't mind staying longer than expected of her, servicing all incoming and potential graduate applicants.
"She goes above and beyond her job description. I have watched her encourage students and help them as they attempt to achieve their master's degree. She treats them as if they were her family. I believe that because of her caring heart and kind words students have walked across the stage to receive their degree." – Kendra Bryant
Since becoming Graduate Admissions Coordinator, enrollment has increased by 7%.
"She is a person who gets the job done. Graduate assistants in our office look to her for guidance on leadership. She is well loved in our office." – Kendra Bryant
Beth Liggett, Public Relations & Marketing
The average employee at APSU works from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but Beth Liggett goes the extra mile while always keeping a smile and positive attitude.
"Beth continually goes above and beyond to provide exemplary service to APSU students, staff, faculty, alumni, and the Clarksville community. She also provides excellent experiential learning opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in PR, marketing, or communications, giving them an advantage and unprecedented skill set when they graduate." – Jake Lowary
Having been employed at APSU since May 2011, her dedication has been recognized over the years.
"Beth has earned several awards of excellence in her short time at APSU. This has brought positive attention and recognition to the University, allowing it to carry its message of excellence beyond its corridors and campus footprint." – Jake Lowary
Sibrena Merriam, Office of the Registrar
Having to answer degree evaluation questions all day long can brings someone's demeanor down, but that's not the case for Sibrena Merriam.
She handles everything in a friendly, encouraging matter, which has helped make her so well-liked at APSU.
"Sibrena is always very responsive to students and faculty when graduation comes into question. She always goes above and beyond to make the student feel comfortable and understand what the issue might be with their degree evaluation. Every time I have a question about any of the registration processes she is quick to get the answer." – Mike Dunn
Everyone sees how she manages her tasks with a great attitude, becoming an inspiration to many.
"Her love of this University, and her knowledge and desire to help, make Sibrena a natural for this award." – Mike Dunn
Debbie Suiter, Physical Plant
Owning every problem that occurs is just one out of many things people admire about Debbie Suiter.
As the Operations Manager, she knows every nook and cranny of APSU, and that experience has helped tremendously at the plant.
"She's been here so long that there's not much about the campus she doesn't have firsthand knowledge of, and is an excellent resource for anyone needing assistance on campus." – Pattie Hancock
It's not just about her, though. Suiter strives to work with others to meet any need a student or faculty member calls for.
"The best kind of leaders are those who expect a lot, but also never ask others to anything they are not willing to do themselves. Respect for her is great, but it is a reflection of her leadership skills." – Pattie Hancock
