Joy Thibadeau, assistant to the vice chancellor for graduate education, has been named the University of Illinois Springfield Employee of the Month for July.
Thibadeau is known for her outstanding commitment to customer service. She has also implemented several initiatives to make processes more efficient, such as consolidating the employment application for graduate students.
“Joy is kind, helpful, and professional in approach,” said one of her nominators. “She is a good listener, and tries to understand the perspective of those with whom she is working. She is collegial, and does excellent work as a member of a team.”
She is always looking for ways to improve the functions of her office, particularly in terms of implementing new electronic processes when they would improve efficiency.
“She is eager to consider new ideas and to do research to discover best practices or to find examples from other campuses,” said a nominator. “She maintains a good sense of humor in the face of challenges.”
Thibadeau has an excellent track record of not only meeting deadlines, but of finishing tasks ahead of schedule. She stays calm and focused even during the most stressful periods of the academic year.
“I can count on Joy to always keep in mind that providing an excellent educational experience to our students is our first priority,” said a nominator. “She has a strong commitment to their success, which in turn inspires her commitment to excellence in her position.”