The purpose of the Non-bargaining Classified Employee of the Month award is to acknowledge and recognize those who are setting the standards for excellence and innovation at Ohio University.
This recognition is Classified Senate ’s way of awarding those employees who have shown outstanding individual achievement and performance of their jobs, while inspiring and supporting the achievement of others. Criteria include:
- Positive attitude and serving as a role model
- Productivity and commitment to quality
- Initiative and taking on additional responsibilities
The November 2019 recipient is Jessica Barton, records management specialist for the University Registrar. She was nominated by Brenda Dorst and Vicki Stewart.
The following quotes are a sampling of what they wrote on their nomination form:
Jessica is always in excellent customer service mode. She has a smile for everyone and a true desire to assist students, faculty, staff, and coworkers. She is a reliable, hardworking employee who always brings her best. She displays amazing service to the students to assist them in whatever their needs are regarding his/her registration process. If she does not have the answer, she goes the extra mile to get the correct answer for the student, i.e. making phone calls to other areas to find the answer.
Her latest huge accomplishment was a community service project she came up with and headed, called Socktember. This drive collected socks for the homeless or needy to distribute at The Athens Area Stand Down. Jessica managed to collect 2,022 pairs of socks through her working with many different departments on campus. In addition, Jessica was a significant contributor to the Homecoming decorations for the office. She provided great ideas to help create a colorful atmosphere of decorations to support the 2019 Homecoming theme, "1804 and So Much More!"
Jessica is a pleasure to work with – always smiling and helpful. She truly seems to love Ohio University. She is a true asset to our department. She is a kind and supportive colleague. Her positivity toward her work helps to provide a good working environment for those around her.
These are Jessica Barton’s answers to some get-to-know-you questions:
How surprised were you to win the Employee of the Month award?
I seriously had no idea. I wish I could have seen the look on my face.
What is your job title and how long have you worked it?
I’m a records management specialist in the University Registrar office. I’ve been in this position for one and a half years.
What are the most enjoyable things about your job?
I love the student interaction and my coworkers are amazing.
What is your hometown and where do you live now?
Coolville, Ohio, where all the cool kids are. I am still a cool kid.
What was the last good book you read?
“Notorious RBG.” Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a legend.
If you weren’t in your present job, you would be ___?
I love working with the international students, so I would be in International Student Faculty Services. Or maybe a kept woman to a billionaire.
What things in life are the most important to you?
My daughter, my family and friends, and being a good person.
Where is your favorite vacation destination?
Anywhere with a beach and a drink in my hand.
What are your hobbies?
Reading, swimming and sleeping.
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
I hate to be the center of attention. Receiving this award was hard for me, but I greatly appreciate it.
What are your favorite TV shows?
Grey’s Anatomy, The Masked Singer, The League, Letterkenny, Schitt’s Creek, and more.
Who are your favorite musicians?
Kendrick Lamar, Khalid, Boys II Men
What is the next big event you can't wait for?
I can’t wait to watch my daughter at Christmas. She’s 4 and really starting to understand the holiday.
What is your dream car/truck/SUV?
Rolls Royce Phantom or a Range Rover. Nothing too fancy (haha).
What is your favorite saying or quote?
Empowered Women Empower Women