Plymouth ––A Bridgewater, N.H. resident who strives to provide superior customer service to Plymouth State University students has been named the recipient of the 2012 Sara Jayne Steen Operating Staff Service award. Brenda Clayton has worked at PSU for more than 17 years as an Administrative Assistant and Academic/Student Services Assistant in the Registrar’s Office and has earned a reputation as an employee devoted to students’ lives. She has also played a key role in organizing the popular Festival of Trees fundraiser within the Plymouth community and is an enthusiastic volunteer for the University’s Spring Fling and Commencement events. Plymouth State University President Sara Jayne Steen said Clayton has earned a reputation as an exceptional resource in helping students achieve their academic goals.
Brenda Clayton, right, accepts 2012 Sara Jayne Steen Operating Staff Service Award from PSU President Sara Jayne Steen in a November 21 ceremony.
“She has an extraordinary impact on students’ lives,” said Steen. “She is someone they talk about and feel supported by on a regular basis.”
Operating Staff Speaker Fran Bean introduced Clayton as the winner and described her as a model employee who truly cares for the students she serves.
“Brenda’s service to the students and community extends far beyond her work in the Registrar’s Office,” said Bean. “By immersing herself in various activities and functions, she continues to have an impact on lives even after her official work day ends.”
The criteria for winning the award include exemplifying the spirit and values of the institution, being dedicated to providing a learning environment that supports development of the mind, body and spirit, being actively involved in University activities, and engaged in service to the wider community.
Clayton said she was shocked when she was announced as the OS Service Award winner.
“We have the best students and I really enjoy helping them make the right choices in choosing their path to academic success,” Clayton said. “It gives me so much satisfaction to watch students grow into successful young adults who achieve their goals.”
Clayton lives in Bridgewater with her husband, John. She has two daughters and one grandchild. The Sara Jayne Steen Operating Staff Service Award winner was chosen by a seven-member panel of faculty, staff, community members and students.
For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu
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