At the end of the academic year, Lindenwood University recognized the contributions of four staff and faculty members who are celebrating their retirement. The ceremony celebrated Sharon Vawser, Eric Stuhler, Janet Schulte and, Dr. Deb Ayres.
Payroll and Taxation Specialist Sharon Vawser was recognized for her support of coworkers and student workers throughout her time at Lindenwood. Speaking on her accomplishments, Director of Payroll Monica Seiter highlighted her role in transforming the student worker program from a work-credit model to a true employment model, while also providing guidance and support to student employees, including international student workers. Seiter added that Vawser brought joy and laughter to the payroll team. “Sharon has a gift for making people feel seen and valued,” Seiter said. “Whether it was decorating the office, organizing a potluck, or simply asking how someone’s weekend went, she created a culture of care that made Lindenwood feel like home.”
Professor of Business Eric Stuhler has been an active member of the Lindenwood community for more than 50 years. An alumnus from the class of 1978, Stuhler returned to Lindenwood in 1981, where he would go on to teach business law for 88 consecutive semesters. “Eric brought more than knowledge and service to Lindenwood,” said colleague Steve Coleman. “He brought humor, heart, and a spirit that made this place better.” Coleman outlined Stuhler’s accomplishments from his methods of encouraging classroom engagement to his many roles throughout the years. Stuhler worked with the Alumni Board, Board of Directors, university fundraising efforts, and served as the University’s legal counsel. Over the years, Stuhler has been named Employee of the Year, the Beyond the Best in Business Award, and Advisor and Mentor of the Year.
Instructor of Paramedicine Janet Schulte was recognized for her role in transforming the University’s paramedicine program. Professor of Nursing Dr. Darrell DeMartino referred to steady commitment and care as Schulte’s trademark, remarking on her ability to maintain professionalism without sacrificing personality and showing deep care for students. Speaking to Schulte, DeMartino added, “Your legacy lives on in the students you supported, the systems you built, and the culture of dedication and care you helped create.”
Senior Vice President of Human Resources Dr. Deb Ayres was recognized for her leadership within human resources and her lasting impact on Lindenwood’s employee experience. After starting at the University in 2008, Ayres helped establish a strategic HR mission focused on supporting the faculty and staff who serve students each day. During her tenure, she helped grow human resources from a three-member team into a full division. Ayres named the Lindenwood Learning Academy “the crown jewel of the HR division,” adding that the collective efforts of all Lindenwood employees contribute to sustaining the University’s culture. Lindenwood President Dr. John R. Porter said, “she has been right there with me. She’s been so supportive. She’s been such a leader here at the University, all the things that we’ve been able to do here,” highlighting Ayres as the author of the University’s Q2 culture.
Together, Vawser, Stuhler, Schulte, and Ayres represent decades of service across Lindenwood’s classrooms, operations, and support systems. Their work strengthened the University through the students they supported and the culture they shaped for colleagues across campus. As Lindenwood continues to grow, their contributions remain part of the foundation that allows the University to provide meaningful experiences for students, faculty, and staff.