Jennifer Leichtfuss, who works for Academic Support of Inclusive Excellence as a university services program associate at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, has been named the recipient of the June 2019 STAR Award.
She was nominated by Irma Burgos, Latino/a/Hispanic student coordinator.
Nomination follows:
“It is with great pleasure that I nominate Jennifer Leichtfuss for the Star Award in recognition of her outstanding work and tireless efforts in providing support to the members of the Division of Academic Support of Inclusive Excellence. She is a fabulous employee, a huge asset to our department and is so deserving of the award and recognition.
“Based on her supervisor’s comments, Jennifer is dedicated and hardworking. She is extremely organized and focused on continuously learning and developing best practices to manage routine activities both efficiently and effectively. Prior to my retirement, Jennifer worked directly with me for a short time and I can sincerely say the same about her work ethics.
“As a recent retiree, I returned to the University to work in a new position within the same department and working with her on a number of projects. In my many years of working at the University (prior to retirement) I have had the opportunity of working with a number of support personnel, however, Jennifer’s knowledge, efficiency and computer skills are unparalleled.
“Although the focus of her work is with the assistance vice chancellor, I have asked her to assist me with a number of projects, which she has happily embraced. With budget constraints across the campus community, many departments have had to learn to effectively manage their programs without support personnel. Thus, asking one person whose main responsibility is with the AVC to assist other professionals in the department with an array of programs and services is definitely a professional that works above and beyond expectations.
“Jennifer has provided assistance with program development and support with the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration, annual Titans on the Go Students of Color Orientation, Black Thursday Remembered: 50 Years Later Commemoration, Black History Month, Association for Latino Men in Academia, to name a few.
“I see how others (directors, staff, student employees) in the department have also asked her for assistance and help with projects. I don’t know how she is able to accomplish and meet the demands of her position, but I believe that this is because of her strong work ethics, pride and commitment to her work. She is very knowledgeable about using her excellent skills and knowledge so that PowerPoints, brochures, programs and other educational projects/programs are more effective, presentable and engaging.
“But most importantly, she loves to share her knowledge with anyone who will listen. She helps to facilitate report projects with her editorial skills, spreadsheet development and communication skills. She takes great pride in every aspect of her job. I have noticed that she approaches all her responsibilities with pride and always seeks to help you make them better. Throughout all her projects, Jennifer has consistently met established deadlines and milestones. I don’t know of anyone else more qualified to lend her expertise than Jennifer.
Jennifer’s customer service skills with people from diverse backgrounds are exemplary. She is one of the friendliest professionals I know and she always arrives to work with a smile on her face and a happy greeting for all employees in the department. She can communicate effectively with guests and all members of the department, including students, faculty, administrators and people from the community.
“Since working with Jennifer, I have never heard one negative comment about her. It is with great pleasure that I respectfully submit this nomination for Jennifer Leichtfuss to be recognized as the Star Award recipient joining the ranks of other UW Oshkosh Star Award winners.