College Honors Four Staff Members for Excellence on the Job

MIDDLEBURY, Vt. — Four members of the staff at Middlebury College were honored as the 2014 recipients of the Staff Recognition Awards at a noontime lunch reception and ceremony on June 20 in McCullough Student Center.

Nominated by their peers and selected by a committee of previous recipients of the award were: Debby Anderson, box office manager; JJ Boggs, associate dean of students for student activities and orientation; Janey Bushey Anderson, supervisor at Midd Express; and Jennifer Pottinger, customer services coordinator for Facilities Services.

The annual award recognizes excellence on the part of staff members in four areas: leadership, stewardship, attitude, and community service. It was established through the generosity of Rudolf K. Haerle, Jr., professor emeritus of sociology, to honor outstanding members of the Middlebury College staff. Haerle joined the celebration in-person, sitting at the front of the room as the winners came forward.

Before presenting the awards, President Ron Liebowitz expressed gratitude to both the staff and Haerle. “It’s a wonderful award and I think it gives great recognition to so many staff members who, as Rudi felt, make such a difference in the lives of our students and the education they receive.”

Debby Anderson’s patience, guidance, and mentorship as the College’s box office manager were noted in her recognition award. “You deliver superb customer service, creative problem solving, and superior organizational skills,” Liebowitz said. “And you work to instill those values in the 20 student workers you supervise.”

Janey Bushey Anderson was recognized for her customer service and ensuring a quality experience as a supervisor at the College’s convenience store, Midd Express. “The pride you take in your work shows, and you always want to make a good impression on visitors,” said Liebowitz.

JJ Boggs was recognized particularly for her strong leadership in Middlebury’s new student orientation program. Liebowitz noted that one nominator wrote, “She could lead us into a fire and we would all follow to help fight it. She is there beside us all the way, encouraging us and supporting us.”

Jennifer Pottinger, who is often the first voice people hear when they call Facilities Services, was recognized for her expert costumer service and vast knowledge of the College campus. Liebowitz read a quote from one of her nominators for the award, which stated, “I cannot recommend a more deserving individual for this honor. She is cheerful and respectful of others and makes the workday more enjoyable for all.”

By Stephen Diehl, Photos by Matt Lennon ’13