Bobbi Larson received the University Staff Employee Appreciation Award for April at University of Wisconsin-Stout.
Larson, of the Eau Claire County town of Seymour, is a Procurement and Materials Management shipping and mail associate. She has worked at the university since November 2019. Chancellor Katherine Frank presented Larson with the award.
Larson’s nomination stated: "Bobbi took to her new role in the mailroom so fluidly and took on more and more responsibility without hesitation. Not only does she run the university's mailroom, but she also took on the bulk of the responsibilities for University Stores and Central Receiving. Bobbi has increased the amount of mail process in-house and therefore saved the university a great deal of money. She has also helped to improve processes for both Stores and Central Receiving that have allowed for greater customer service and more efficient delivery of products and packages across the campus.
"Bobbi goes above and beyond with anyone she interacts with whether it's with her co-workers or with customers through the university mailroom. She's always charismatic and does whatever she can to help. She always strives to resolve any issue, and when/if she can't, she's always willing to go the extra mile and find the person who is able to resolve it. You can always tell where Bobbi is in the building by following the sound of laughter. She brings a contagious upbeat and positive attitude wherever she goes. She shows genuine enthusiasm and encouragement when interacting with co-workers and always demonstrates professionalism whenever interacting with customers both on and off campus."
Larson said she was shocked by the award and had no idea she was selected. “It is one of the coolest moments of my life for sure,” she said. “I used to work for a company that didn’t really appreciate what I did. It is the biggest blessing to know that I am actually making a difference in my department. I work with so many amazing people. It is truly a pleasure to be a part of such a great college. It’s easy to be good at your job when you work with an outstanding team of people all working together for the greater good.”
Each winner receives a certificate of recognition, a UW-Stout travel mug and a UW-Stout blanket.
Students, faculty and staff may nominate university staff members who demonstrate a commitment to excellence and the university community at the University Staff Employee Appreciation Award nomination form.
The award, in its 15th year, was established by the Chancellor’s Office and is co-sponsored by the University Staff Senate.