Five University of Hartford staff members have been honored as recipients of Outstanding Staff Member Awards. They are Robert Degree (Public Safety), Sharon Dunn (Center for Student Success), Jennifer Olson (Allen Library), Nicole Vasil (Admission), and Kyle Wasilkowski (Athletics and Recreation).
Recipients were honored at the Faculty-Staff Kickoff for the spring semester on January 29 in Millard Auditorium.
The Outstanding Staff Member Award recognizes staff members who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the University and play a critical role in the success of this institution and its students. The outstanding staff member honorees have a record of outstanding job performance and often go beyond their job descriptions to help students, parents, faculty, colleagues, and the public.
Meeting this year’s honorees:
Robert Degree, public safety officer, might be called the face of UHart since his is the first many see when arriving on campus. What is significant about that is the fact that he exudes an aura of welcome and assurance when he greets people at the front entrance. It is Degree’s disposition and thoughtfulness that has contributed to his being named a recipient of this award. “Bob helps to further the sense of belonging on campus. He somehow automatically puts a smile on every face,” stated one of his many nominators. “That can make a huge difference in someone's day. In fact, for some people, it’s the first impressions they’ll have of our community, and what a positive impression it is.”
Sharon Dunn, student success specialist in the Center for Student Success (CSS), has shown an exemplary commitment to the University and to CSS for 15 years. In turn, that commitment extends daily to students, their families, UHart faculty and staff, and all others with whom she comes in contact as part of the job she loves. A true team player, she consistently proves her willingness and ability to help anyone who has a question, issue, or challenge to discuss. “No matter how hectic it is on any given day, Sharon makes sure that all CSS e-mails, voicemails, walk-ins, and VA matters are handled promptly and with the highest quality. “In essence,” says one of her colleagues, “she’s a customer service powerhouse right here on campus.”
Jennifer Olson, Allen Library technical services librarian, is responsible for the seamless and effective utilization of the catalogues at the Allen and Mortensen libraries on campus. A UHart alumna, she is an active participant with many professional organizations that work to update problematic library and catalogue language protocols. “Jen deserves this recognition for the work she does and the colleague she is,” reads one of ther nominations for this award.says. “She goes above and beyond in so many ways, taking on tasks that, ultimately, help other people. She continually educates herself on new software and apps, which she then shares with the library staff so that everyone can work more efficiently.” Many co-workers admire her assiduousness, attention to detail, eagerness to encourage others, and ability to explain complex functions in easy-to-understand terms.
Nicole Vasil ’21, assistant director of admission, has many duties within her department, including recruitment, enrollment, student retention, and management of the RedKey Tour Guides. A strong proponent of the value of teamwork, she is always ready to help colleagues and students alike, and is considered one of the most eloquent ambassadors for the University because of her knowledge and enthusiasm about all aspects of campus life. “Nicole demonstrates her dedication and leadership on a daily basis. She has an unmistakable and undeniable passion for UHart and the campus community,” one nomination details. “Her commitment, understanding, and patience are extraordinary, and her leadership skills help foster a positive and engaging environment for all students.”
Kyle Wasilkowski, director of recreation and club sports, joined the University of Hartford in 2022 and was elevated to the director position just two years later. He is responsible for overall leadership, direction, planning, organization, and program implementation and evaluation of a comprehensive platform of offerings. These include aquatics, informal recreation, intramural sports, and campus-wide special events. “Under his leadership, which fully embraces the University’s inclusion initiative, UHart has seen a tremendous increase in participation in intramurals, from about 80 participants to over 800 in leagues and tournaments,” colleagues explain in nominating materials for the award. “His efforts have significantly revamped and revitalized the University’s recreation model, which is why this recognition is so richly deserved.”