Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Joy Thibadeau named the 2016 UIS Employee of the Year

Joy Thibadeau, assistant to the vice chancellor for graduate education, has been named the 2016 Employee of the Year at the University of Illinois Springfield. She was honored during a reception on January 25, 2017, in the Sangamon Auditorium Lobby.

Before announcing the winner, UIS Chancellor Susan J. Koch praised the eleven Employees of the Month who were nominated.

“When I think about the vision of our university, the phrase that always pops into my mind is that conviction that we’re all trying to make a difference in the world,” said Koch. “When I think about our employees that phrase really comes to mind.”

According to her nominators, Thibadeau is known for her dedication to students, faculty and staff and for going above and beyond what is expected to help them. She is also committed to improving efficiency within her office and has introduced new electronic methods to streamline processes, such as the employment application for graduate students.

“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.”

In her job, Thibadeau oversees the application process for graduate students applying for jobs on campus. She also is in charge of getting the UIS Catalog published online. She works with all of the academic departments to obtain course descriptions and student related data.

“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.”

As Employee of the Year, Thibadeau will get a check for $500, plus a special parking spot for the entire year.

“Thank you all. It’s just great to work here with a great bunch of people,” said Thibadeau in accepting the award.