Kansas State University

MANHATTAN -- The Kansas State University president's office is recognizing three classified professionals for excellence in job performance.

Joanna Berg, health care technician II in diagnostic medicine and pathobiology; Carol Marden, public service administrator I in counseling services; and Lois Schreiner, administrative specialist in the department of animal sciences and industry, have received the university's 2013 Classified Award of Excellence.

The award was established to recognize exemplary performance and contributions of classified support staff members who consistently excel in their positions and demonstrate integrity and a strong commitment to the mission and values of Kansas State University.

* Berg was selected for the classified award in the service and maintenance category. She worked in the Veterinary Health Center's central preparatory unit for 20 years until she transferred to diagnostic medicine and pathobiology in 2012. In the health center, she was in charge of the sterilization processing of surgical instruments and purchasing surgical supplies and equipment. Nominated by Robert Reves, agricultural technician senior at Veterinary Health Center, Berg is described as maintaining a standard of excellence in central prep that rivals the sterile processing of most human hospitals. She also is called a positive person willing to put in extra effort in serving the faculty and staff of the health center.

* Marden was selected for the classified award in the technical and professional category. Her continued attention and commitment to counseling services and its clientele has contributed to streamlining the client reception and intake process, and her improvements in the front desk/reception area created smooth communication. Nominated by Dorinda Lambert, director of counseling services, Marden is described as a person with great personal integrity and values, bringing her commitment to excellence to every task to which she is assigned. Her commitment to excellence also is seen in her management of the Alternative Service Committee for classified staff that she chairs.

* Schreiner was selected for the classified award in the office and clerical category. Schreiner coordinates the extension activities for animal sciences and industry. Nominated by Mike Tokach, university distinguished professor and extension state leader for animal sciences and industry, Schreiner is described as performing beyond her normal job responsibilities and furthering the mission of the university. She also is described as one who approaches change and new expectations with vigor and an eagerness to help make the organization better. Instead of focusing on how extra responsibilities add to her workload, Schreiner is said to always focus on the positive benefits for the department and the university.