University News

McConnell Named September Employee of the Month

October 12, 2023

Share |
Printer friendly version

MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - Western Illinois University Office of Provost and Academic Vice President Administrative Assistant Brenda McConnell has been named the Al and Goldfarb Civil Service Employee of the Month for September.

"Brenda is the definition of "team player" and spends a countless amount of time and energy supporting others," a nominator said. "Thoughtful, focused and detail oriented, Brenda enhances every task and situation she is involved with. Not only is her work ethic unmatched, she accomplishes this with a smile each and every day. It is tempting to let the negativity of others impact our day-to-day roles, but Brenda continues to shine a light in all she does. WIU is lucky Brenda is going above and beyond every day."

McConnell was hired as a secretary III for non-traditional programs in August 1999. Later, in October 2003, she was promoted to secretary IV of non-traditional programs. In 2016, she moved to the Office of Provost as the office administrator, and most recently, in May 2022, she was promoted to administrative assistant to the provost.

"This individual has demonstrated exceptional dedication and support towards their colleagues and the institution as a whole in the past month," a nominator said. McConnell has consistently aided people outside of her department in arranging, organizing and prioritizing meetings, events and other tasks, which has contributed significantly to the smooth functioning of the University.

The nominee embodies the core values of the institution, including professional excellence, personal growth, equity and justice. They are committed to promoting personal growth in every interaction they have with students, faculty, staff and visitors. Furthermore, they believe in the potential of Western to provide opportunities not just to the local community, but to the world as well."

"I have been blessed to work with so many wonderful individuals. I am very fortunate," McConnell said.

In August 2010, the Goldfarbs established an endowment to permanently fund the University's Civil Service Employee of the Month award. The Goldfarb endowment is used to fund a $100 award for the recipient of the Civil Service Employee of the Month, as well as a plaque.

The WIU Foundation provides a $500 stipend for the Civil Service Employee of the Year. Western faculty, staff and administrators, as well as community members, wishing to nominate a civil service employee for the monthly recognition should contact the Civil Service Employees Council (CSEC) at csec-nominations-g@wiu.edu.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing