Kansas State University

Classified employees receive excellence awards

Submitted by Communications and Marketing

Three hardworking Kansas State University classified employees are being rewarded for their outstanding job performance.

Receiving the 2014 K-State Classified Award of Excellence are: Holly McHugh, administrative specialist in the undergraduate admissions office, in the office and clerical category; Kerry Jennings, physical plant supervisor for housing and dinning services, in the service and maintenance/skilled craft category; and Lynn Salsbury, educational specialist in the Division of Facilities, in the technical and professional category.

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. Each award winner received a $1,000 monetary award.

McHugh consistently exceeds expectations in her position. She establishes positive relationships with all of her co-workers. Her positive outlook and openness to change has helped create a positive atmosphere and allowed the unit to make strides in creating a culture open to change. She tackles every task with an open mind and not as something being added to her daily job. McHugh is a strong proponent for improving processes to increase efficiency. When the office made a change to associate a transcript to a student's records earlier in the process, she identified the possible downside impact and helped ensure the risk was mitigated. This change allowed for improved service to students and parents. McHugh was nominated by Michelle Elkins, assistant director of operations in the undergraduate admissions office.

Jennings has expanded the productivity of his unit to include the installation, repair, maintenance and support of elevators, electronic systems, security systems, wire/wireless systems and fire alarm systems at K-State — all very important to student residents. Last year Jennings unexpectedly stepped in for his supervisor to manage a complex $2 million energy conservation project, which will allow the department and students to save money on utilities. Jennings continuously promotes a positive attitude to his fellow employees and takes the initiative to significantly improve the department's work performance, save money and make a safer environment for both employees and students. Jennings was nominated by Skyler Harper, associate director and facilities manager in housing and dining services.

Salsbury is an excellent health and safety instructor within the Division of Facilities. She is always willing to take on new training courses, and her classes have been sought by a variety of other university departments. Several years ago Salsbury took over the publication of the monthly Facilities Management News Bulletin, where she continually used the publication to promote a positive work culture. The work Salsbury has done to comply with tracking training requirements was instrumental in receiving position results from a recent Kansas Department of Labor surprise inspection. Often Salsbury finds herself in the role of liaison between facilities employees and her work unit, advocating for the safety and welfare of staff. Her refined people and conflict management skills enable her to diffuse situations in a positive way. By actively showing respect for differences of opinions and the vast diversity of knowledge, skills and abilities represented by the facilities employees she supports K-State's Principles of Community. Salsbury was nominated by Sandra Hoffman, director of resources in the Division of Facilities.