Dalesky, Maxson honored with Distinguished Service Awards (continued)

Karin Dalesky
Admissions Specialist, Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences

About Karin:
Nominators noted that Karin has a knack for connecting with students and is always genuinely engaged in helping students get into, and through, the IAS program. Her dedication to community outreach has led her to inform and mobilize the UWT community around the issue of lost and abandoned pets in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

A message from Karin:
"When I first came to UWT in September of 1996 to finish my undergraduate degree, I had no idea what I wanted to do professionally once I had earned my BA.  During my second quarter over at the Perkins Building, I discovered that I really wanted to work for this institution, as the vision of this campus was especially intriguing to me. Now, 11 years later, I feel extremely honored to accept this award from a place that has truly changed my life. Given the range of brilliant staff nominated this year, all truly outstanding and dedicated people, it is even more rewarding.

"First, I'd like to thank Chancellor Spakes and the Spring Celebration committee for hosting such a lovely event, along with the Distinguished Service Award committee and the UWT Staff Association.  Special thanks go to Kim Davenport and Marcie Pierson for nominating me for this award, to the IAS staff and faculty, specifically Michelle Hartman, whose humor and sensibilities keep our end of the IAS office running, and to my mentor Dr. Carolyn West (and her mother sweet Georgia) and Beth Kalikoff, who are assisting me with the completion of my thesis. Beth and Carolyn been terrific in dispelling the drama and hand-wringing I constantly bring to them lately.   Finally, I want to thank my mother Marilyn, who is my biggest fan and the best mom in world; my magnificent partner Laura, whose disco-ball approach to life is an endless source of amazement and amusement to me; and our three dogs, Oskar, Karma, and Louis LaFitte, who, despite their continuous efforts to exasperate me on a daily basis, are the inspiration for the work I do within the animal welfare community.

"The financial reward that accompanies this honor is a wonderful bonus, as Laura and I have planned our next vacation to continue the much-needed efforts that remain in the devastated New Orleans region. I sincerely love my job here at UWT, and I know I am blessed to work in tandem with such an industrious, smart and civic-minded group of individuals. I'm genuinely inspired to be a part of the UWT community, and thank you all for your support and kindness."

Carolyn Maxson
Administrative Coordinator, Teaching and Learning Center

About Carolyn:
Those who nominated Carolyn pointed out that she is enthusiastic, organized and friendly, lifting the spirits of students, staff and faculty with a sunny smile and a positive attitude. She uses innovative approaches to motivate both students and staff to excel in their own work.

A message from Carolyn:
"First of all, I would like to thank the Distinguished Service Award selection committee and the Spring Celebration committee. I know that as committee members you work hard and deserve this thanks.

"I was so touched by all the phone calls, emails and congratulatory hugs, including a surprise event that took place in Media, thank you.

"Finally, I would like to thank my co-workers, staff, faculty, administration and the group most dear to my heart, our students. It was actually Ann Lanning, an MSW student who will graduate in June and a TLC staff member, who started the nomination process; other students followed. Students have always been special to me and now are even more special as I feel as if I have touched their lives also. So thank you, students!"