Kim Calder has been given the PFLA September 2012 Our Hero Award. (photo: Theresa Hogue)

Kim Calder, Faculty Services Coordinator for the College of Business, has been given the PFLA (Professional Faculty Leadership Assocation) September 2012 Our Hero Award

According to her nominators, Calder enhances the image of OSU through her professionalism, her organization and her positive energy. She has the reputation of taking care of all her customers and treats them with respect and a smile – faculty, staff, student help and vendors.

Calder was the mastermind behind the success of the multiple individual and departmental moves in and out of Bexell, Milam and Strand Halls this summer. The moves went so smoothly that the involved offices were down no more than a half day.

Mirabelle Fernandes-Paul hugs award recipient Diane Davis. (photo: Theresa Hogue)

Diane Davis, Coordinator of Healthy Campus Initiatives at Oregon State University, was honored Tuesday with the April PFLA (Professional Faculty Leadership Association)’s “Our Hero” award. Davis was honored for always looking out for ways in which she can support, encourage and assist her colleagues and students at OSU.

According to Mirabelle Fernandes-Paul in the Office for Women’s Advancement and Gender Equity, anyone who meets Davis is immediately put at ease.

“Her manner of communication is always non-judgmental, compassionate and inclusive,” Fernandes-Paul said. “Anyone who meets Diane is quick to feel comfortable around her. She also delivers what she promises and hence she has earned great trust among colleagues.”

Davis is also known for sacrificing her own time in order to help others around campus.

“She treats everyone she meets with respect, gentleness and kindness. Her style of leadership is transformational,” Fernandes-Paul said. “She will steer your heart and mind to places of generosity, compassion and wisdom without you even realizing it. She is a great inspiration to those who work with her.”

Nathan McClure's meeting at Arnold Hall is interrupted by a surprise award. (photo: Theresa Hogue)

Nathan McClure was honored with the university’s “Our Heroes” Award on Jan. 21. The award, sponsored by the Professional Faculty Leadership Association, recognizes OSU colleagues or groups for excellence in their work and outstanding service to others.

McClure is a University Housing and Dining Services Catering Chef. He was recognized for always been motivating and effective in encouraging and supporting those around him to achieve higher goals than they would have imagined possible.  Nominators say his infectious attitude and dedication create a hard-working and proud team.

One nominator said, “His calm demeanor remains intact through the most stressful of times.  He provides a level of expertise in his field that appears to be unmatched on campus.  His innovation and creativity continue to wow customers.  He takes necessary measures to exceed their expectations whenever possible.  Nathan is genuine about his concern for the customer being “beyond satisfied”.”

McClure received a certificate and a rosemary plant from a group of PFLA members to honor his outstanding work.

Cheryl Lyons of Printing and Mailing congratulates Donnie Barzar, who is a transporter for Printing and Mailing. (photo: Larry Pribyl)

Donnie Barzar was honored with the university’s “Our Heroes” Award on Dec. 9. The award, sponsored by the Professional Faculty Leadership Association, recognizes OSU colleagues or groups for excellence in their work and outstanding service to others.

Barzar is transporter for Printing and Mailing Services. He was recognized for his excellent customer service and for providing a positive image of Printing and Mailing around campus.

According to his nominators, he always follows up on questions or concerns expressed by customers, and makes sure to find the answer to their questions, or tracks down someone who can provide assistance.

A customer contacted his supervisor, Cheryl Lyons, to give Barzar praise. “I’m not sure I’ve met someone with a deeper commitment to positivity. He has adopted that as a personal mantra, and lives it.”

Barzar received a certificate and a Christmas cactus from a group of PFLA members to honor his outstanding work.

Hollie Pitts, left, receives a rose and a certificate from Laurie Solum as she is honored with the PFLA Our Heroes Award. (photo: Theresa Hogue)

Pitts was recognized for her devotion to helping others and her amazing customer service. PFLA President Linda Devenow nominated Pitts for the award.

“Taking care of the customer is her top priority,” Devenow said. “Hollie does this under the greatest amount of pressure, while leaving her customer base relieved of the stress.”

She received a certificate and a rose from a group of PFLA members to honor her outstanding work.