On April 4, 2024, President Hendrix presented the Staff Awards to the winners.
The Above and Beyond Award goes to a staff member who has often exceeded standard expectations to assist people and accomplish goals. By being positive and productive, the employee helps to make Shepherd a great place to work. The winner of the 2024 Above and Beyond Award is Melanie Ford.
Melanie received 10 separate nominations for the Above and Beyond Award. One of them said, “Above and beyond seems like a phrase that was invented to describe Melanie Ford!” Melanie has contributed to Shepherd in a unique way this year. In addition to her role as Principal Systems Analyst for the Student Affairs Division, she has been serving as the Interim Athletic Director at a very challenging time. Many people noted Melanie’s strong work ethic, her grace and kindness, her patience, and her authenticity. They described her as trustworthy, poised, professional – and fun to work with! Melanie is credited with revitalizing Relay for Life and Alternative Spring Break – two beloved Shepherd traditions. As a strong leader and a phenomenal colleague and friend, Melanie truly has gone above and beyond!
The Excellent Service to Students Award distinguishes a staff member who has been especially supportive of Shepherd students. They have shown that they value students by enthusiastically and capably serving them. The 2024 Excellent Service to Students Award was presented to Jessica Anders.
Jessica Anders is the Director of Accessibility Services. In this role, she helps students with diverse needs to achieve their academic and social potential, and she supports and provides resources for the faculty. Jessica is known as a good listener and strong student advocate. Students say that she makes them feel more seen, heard, and comfortable on campus. One nominator said that Jessica “always puts the students first” and she strives for fair and respectful solutions to the challenges faced by students.
The Making a Difference Award is given to a staff member who has demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity, social justice, diversity, and equity. This is someone who has been a change agent working to improve the well-being of the Shepherd University community. The winner of the 2024 Making a Difference Award is Wrenna Dorrer.
Wrenna Dorrer is the International Admissions Officer who, according to the person who nominated her, has had a profound impact, particularly in the realm of international recruitment, admissions, programs, and activities. “She has fostered collaboration across campus, spearheading numerous activities tailored to the international student community.” Wrenna’s efforts have resulted in a diverse range of events and a series of informative lectures, which exemplified Shepherd University’s commitment to embracing cultural diversity and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
The Ram Spirit Award is for a staff member who exemplifies long-term, passionate dedication to Shepherd University, and who has been a University employee for at least five years. The 2024 Ram Spirit Award was presented to Peggy Swisher.
Peggy Swisher has worked at Shepherd since 1991. She is the Certification Analyst for the School of Education, where she is a “go to” person for faculty, staff and students. Peg’s willingness to help, always with a smile, is her trademark. Peggy has supported the department through complex changes in procedures and systems and she is appreciated by the students. She also has demonstrated Ram Spirit by participating in the Classified Employees Council over the years.