On March 19, Lindenwood University’s Staff Council and Faculty Council co-hosted the 2024 Faculty and Staff Awards Recognition Ceremony in J. Scheidegger Theater. The event was livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.

The annual ceremony spotlights work anniversaries and those who have gone above and beyond to advance Lindenwood’s mission of enhancing lives through quality education and professional preparatory experiences.

Some 480 dedicated staff members with more than 2,128 years of service are employed at Lindenwood. Together, they work tirelessly every day to ensure Lindenwood’s status as a top destination for higher education. The Staff Awards signify these individuals’ efforts within their roles across the University.

Social Media Specialist Aj Surrell presented the Staff Awards.

The first award of the afternoon was presented to someone who has garnered widespread admiration for exceptional contributions to the Learning Academy.

Employee Development Coordinator Ginger Hazlewood-Gaylor received the Behind-the-Scenes Award, which is given to a staff member who works in a position that does not directly interact with students. Hazlewood-Gaylor lives the Lindenwood mission and provides excellent service to the University through her role by anticipating the needs of faculty, staff, and students.

Campus Experience Coordinator Amy Bowsher was awarded the Staff Service Award. This honor is presented to a staff member who has exhibited the highest level of service to and promotion of Lindenwood. Bowsher demonstrates a commitment to providing excellent service to peers, students, parents, faculty, alumni, and others in the community in her role by organizing campus tours and providing outstanding support for student-athlete recruits.

Student Financial Services Counselor Kristie Sissom received the Real Experience. Real Success. Award. This award recognizes a staff member who significantly impacts their department, maintains a high level of productivity, and demonstrates leadership qualities. Sissom plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth academic journey for many Lindenwood students, and she assists in resolving issues related to tuition payment to ease the stress of students.

College of Arts and Humanities Administrative Assistant Grace Barnett was awarded the Rookie of the Year Award, which is given to a first-year staff member. Barnett demonstrates excellence in her job, provides significant contributions to her department, shows a willingness to assist beyond normal expectations, is dedicated to the University, and promotes an atmosphere of collaboration and cooperation.

Veterans Affairs Manager Nia Spencer was awarded the Student G.E.M. Award. This award recognizes a staff member who has made an ongoing commitment to providing expert service to Lindenwood’s students. Spencer has demonstrated initiative and creativity, and exceptional and continuous improvement in student service.

The Q2 Service Excellence Award was given to Billing Systems Manager Chris Rumsey.

First-Year Programs Awards were also presented during the ceremony. New this year was the First-Year Programs Student Choice Award, which was presented to Margaret Waechter for her work in Lindenwood Dining Services and Sodexo. This award was born out of Lindenwood students’ desire to honor an individual who goes above and beyond, making the University experience richer and more meaningful. Service Learning and Responsible Citizenship Manager Wendi Price was presented the First-Year Impact Award for making a positive impact on first-year students’ experience at Lindenwood.

Additionally, Lindenwood President Dr. John R. Porter presented the President’s Distinguished Service Award to Groundskeeping Director Kyle Routh for his more than 20 years of service to the University.

The 2024 Staff Award winners are a shining example of the excellent service they provide that helps make Lindenwood thrive each day.