This year’s Distinguished Service Award was presented to Carla Parsons, academic assistant in the Department of English and Creative Writing, and Marne Ausec, dean for global engagement, during the annual Years of Service recognition ceremony on Thursday, May 28.
In front of a standing room-only crowd in Peirce’s Great Hall, President Julie Kornfeld introduced this year’s winners and described their outstanding contributions to the College and its students.
“These awards honor employees who consistently exceed expectations through exceptional service, meaningful contributions to our community, and a deep commitment to strengthening the College,” she said.
The Distinguished Service Award was established during the 1998-99 academic year to recognize employees with exceptional accomplishments who provide outstanding service to students, staff and others. Based on nominations from students and other employees, it goes to one administrator and one staff member, each of whom receives $500.
This year’s staff winner, Parsons, joined the College in 2014. Since then she has facilitated countless events with visiting writers and job candidates, kept student capstone and honors presentations running smoothly, and supported faculty research workshops.
“With a deft thread, the exacting — and always cooperative — Carla effortlessly sutures the many quirks, the event calendars and budgets, and the chaotic demands of academic life into a harmonious rhythm,” Kornfeld said, quoting a nominator.
Ausec, who has been at the College since 2003, leads the Center for Global Engagement. She is a constant advocate for international students, faculty and staff, providing support for issues ranging from immigration to finances to family issues while also offering compassion and care.
“Marne is a developer of people,” one nomination read. “She invests in their success, believes in their capabilities, and provides them with the experiences that launch them to future opportunities.”