Summer 2001
Loyola honors outstanding staff members
During
the annual staff luncheon, University President Bernard P. Knoth, S.J.,
recognized two staff members for their outstanding contributions. The
2001 Coadjutor Optimus Award recipients are Valencia Luke, administrative
assistant in the Office of Financial Aid; and Michele R. Ray, office manager
and budget assistant in the Office of Academic Affairs.
Luke has worked at Loyola for six years. She is known for her friendly smile and steady composure. These attributes come in handy in the Office of Financial Aid where Luke sometimes has to meet with unhappy students and their parents. Her sincere tenderness and professionalism are trademarks and are noticed by everyone entering the financial aid office. A nomination letter described her this way: "She loves and cares deeply about our students and is always willing to go an extra mile to help them. She welcomes all visitors and phone calls with a smile."
Luke was grateful for this wonderful honor. "I wish to thank the Loyola community members for recognizing my dedication to serve the students, parents, staff, and faculty of Loyola in high standards. It is a great honor to be chosen among such a team of fantastic and dedicated co-workers."
Loyola has been fortunate enough to have Ray in its employ for 20 years. Several letters nominating her attested to her unceasing professionalism, superlative attitude, and unparalleled competency. Many wrote that Ray is not only committed to Loyola, but is an example of its Jesuit values, especially social justice and cultivation of the whole person.
One letter pointed out another tremendous asset. "Michelle has always been a championed spokesperson for doing the right thing and for that she has earned the respect of anyone who served with her."
"It is such a warm feeling to know you are appreciated by faculty, staff, and students alike," Ray says. "My first thought was, 'Wow, now I know how the stars feel when they receive an Academy Award.'"
The Coadjutor Optimus is presented annually to two members of Loyola's staff who best epitomize the ideals of the university. The criteria for selection include superior performance, effectiveness in promoting the values of the university, desire to improve within one's job, and supportiveness toward fellow employees.