Shining STARs receive 2022 service awards

Roanoke College recognized four employees with Service To All Roanoke (STAR) Awards during the Gratitude Gala on Dec. 16. The awards are given annually to staff members who deliver exceptional performance in their roles and make a positive impact on the College and local community.

Members of the College community nominate individuals for these awards in three categories – exempt, non-exempt and hourly – and winners receive a trophy and $1,000.

Jacob Ferris, a Dining Service cook, received the STAR Award in the hourly category for his outstanding work. Ferris, who has been a member of the Dining Services team since 2012, exemplifies what it means to be a Dining Services employee. Because team success means more to him than individual acknowledgement, he is always willing to help colleagues accomplish their work and is willing to work outside his regular schedule. Students love to see his seasonal accessories, such as bunny ears, as he serves them in line, and he is quick to make friendly conversation and ensure that students with dietary restrictions have safe, delicious food.

The College received so many nominations in the non-exempt category that two employees were selected for STAR Awards this year.

Toni Fazler, coordinator of services in Morehead Hall, was one recipient in this category. Fazler works hard to create a welcoming space in Morehead, and students make a point to drop by and visit with her, get a warm beverage, or seek advice and assurance. Fazler has updated websites, created and managed social media platforms, and volunteered to be an advisor to Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity, RC Hillel, the Beekeeping Society and RCLutherans. She also organizes and runs the President’s Welcome and the Baccalaureate, three pre-orientation programs, and is a central part of the Commencement Management Committee. In addition, Fazler oversees the Micah’s Backpack program to make sure local elementary school kids have food every weekend, and she is a major supporter of the international student program. Fazler was previously awarded the Kenneth R. Garren Excellence in Diversity Award.

Jeri Person, who works as academic program coordinator in the Registrar’s Office, received a STAR Award for the difference she makes in the lives of students and colleagues. She handles a massive workload with grace and makes amazing suggestions to improve operations both in the Registrar’s Office and across campus. Person’s colleagues describe her as someone who listens, cooks, offers her home, collects necessities for those in need, sits in hospital waiting rooms, offers transportation and is, in general, the rock that people depend on when they need a friend.

Mitzi Steele, database director in the Office of Information Technology, has been described as “the wizard behind the scenes holding it all together.” For her exceptional performance during the pandemic and ensuing high turnover, Steele received a STAR Award in the exempt category. Steele is an employee who arrives at work early, stays late, resolves issue after issue, and juggles multiple projects at once. One nominator said, “Her experience and knowledge, not only in the Colleague world but also in departmental workflows, is irreplaceable. Her leadership, professionalism, technical skills and commitment could not have been stronger during this past year.”

Congratulations to the 2022 STAR Award winners. We are thankful to them for helping to make Roanoke College an exceptional place to work and study.