Coming out of a year of uncertainty and unexpecting changes, TAMUK’s staff council recently celebrated individuals who overcame adversity and empowered Javelina Nation along the way.
“This year’s honorees truly embody the spirit of Javelina Nation. Each of them demonstrates exceptional skill and dedication to the university and the community we serve. No matter their assigned division or job title, each of this year’s honorees exemplified the university core values of Excellence, Integrity, Opportunity, Discovery and Service,” Miranda Joiner, vice president of Staff Council, said.
Loreal Robertson, Tanya Allen, Rebecca Trant, Chelsie McMillion and Shelly Salazar were the recipients of the 2021 Staff Council Employee Awards.
Robertson was recognized with the Inclusion and Diversity Champion Award.
“This is a personal feat, as my work in diversity, equity and inclusion and my own life often intersect, there’s not much separation, I live this every day, I am IT,” Assistant director of Office of Student Activities Robertson said. “I pride myself in creating and promoting spaces, opportunities and environments at TAMUK specifically where everyone can see themselves as part of an experience and feel they are being considered and represented. My role each day is to build awareness that fosters understanding and acceptance, improve the campus climate and increase cultural competence.”
Robertson is dedicated to making TAMUK a more inclusive campus and aids in cultivating a welcoming environment that embraces diversity.
The staff council committee not only recognizes those who strive to make a change but those who lead.
Head Volleyball Coach Allen was the recipient of this year’s Leadership Award.
“I’m truly honored to be receiving this award. It’s a great feeling knowing I’m able to be a good leader for my athletic team and my department… I was very surprised [by the award] because it’s something I work so hard at especially with the year we’ve had. I’m really grateful for the recognition and honored that I can serve as role model,” Allen said.
Allen has worked at Javelina Nation for a decade and has helped strengthen the volleyball programs through her work ethic. Under her leadership, student Javelines have competed at the national level.
Another longtime employee who has made an impact is Trant.
Trant was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award. She began her career with the institution in 1986 making her the longest serving full-time staff employee. When Trant first joined the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute (CKWRI) she served as an administrative officer, and she now serves as Director of CKWRI and has been part of the university for more than 40 years.
The Staff Council recognizes those who enhance the customer service experience and have gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the success of a department though the Rising Star Award.
After working for nearly two years at the university McMillion was this year’s Rising Star Award recipient.
“I’m honored to receive this award; it lets me know that my hard work and effort doesn’t go unnoticed. As an administrative associate the best part of my job is working with the people. I believe in going above and beyond to give students the experience they deserve,” McMillion said.
Enhancing the college experience takes a village. Salazar received the Service Excellence Award for maintaining the highest level of service for students, faculty, staff and members of the community along with a high level of professionalism.
“As a university, it is imperative that we recognize and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of outstanding employees who have had a significant impact on our campus. The Staff Council Employee Awards program is one way to honor our colleagues’ successes, strengths and commitment to excellence in Javelina Nation,” Joiner said.