April 5, 2002

Superior staff recognized with the Coadjutor Optimus Award at the annual luncheon

by Angela R. Anthony, Assistant Director of Public Affairs

As is its annual tradition, Loyola University honored staff members for their dedicated and committed service to the university. The afternoon provided a treasured moment for staff members, university vice presidents, and University President Bernard P. Knoth to break bread together. Put together by the Department of Human Resources, the afternoon of March 26 was a smash. Among the highlights were the awarding of the Coadjutor Optimus Awards, a special gift to Kathy Gros, director of student records, and Douglas Dougherty in financial affairs, for 30 years of service; and Jean Brown in the Twomey Center and Dave Huffman, physical plant assistant director, who have put in a quarter of century of loyal time to Loyola. Huffman, who is chair of the Administrative Staff Senate, also served as the master of ceremonies.

One of the big moments of this celebratory gathering is the presenting of the Coadjutor Optimus Awards. This year's recipients were Harold Baquet, university photographer, and Arthur E. Gassen, production assistant in Department of Computer Services. The award is presented to two members of Loyola's staff who best epitomize the ideals of the university--among those are superior performance, effectiveness in promoting the values of the university, desire to improve within one's job, and supportiveness toward fellow employees.

Baquet has worked for Loyola since 1989 and everyone agrees that he is the consummate professional. His love of photography and people comes through in every photograph he takes. A testament to his unwavering dedication was included in a nomination letter. "He does what it takes to get any job done and it is amazing to see all he has to do to get the perfect shot," the letter stated. Baquet has time and time again gone the extra mile for the university, whether it is an early morning call, a late-night event or an impromptu happening, he is eager to capture great elements of Loyola life. His exceptional work ethic derives from his desire to serve others, and is exemplified in how far his warm demeanor goes to building the Loyola family among staff and students. Despite his busy schedule as recorder of history, Baquet finds time to be an active member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, and was recently featured in the Clarion Herald, the New Orleans Archdiocese's newsletter, for his unmistakable love of God, love of people and love of service.

Gassen is far more than the computer guy. As control assistant, he is responsible for all the daily work that is run on computers in a multitude of divisions and offices. He not only sees to it that things run smoothly, but Gassen makes sure that when glitches occur, back ups are available. It is not overstating to say that Gassen has saved the day on more than one occasion. "The people at Loyola are not my co-workers, they are family," Gassen beamed. "I am so excited to receive this award." A nomination letter stated, "He does what he has to do. He will do anything for anybody. He is and will continue to be a great asset to the Loyola community." Gassen has been with Loyola since 1979 and the university continues to thrive due to his expertise and unyielding service.