As a long-standing tradition at Bradley, faculty and staff will be honored for their many years of service to the university at an upcoming luncheon. President Gary Roberts will give a speech in recognition of the recipients and award them with a service pin. The recipients consist of any staff members who have given 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 or 50 years to the university.
The recognition is worth more than just a luncheon and pin, according to Renee Charles, University Spokesperson and Executive Director of Public Relations. It is also a dedicated time for reflection and thanks.
This is a time when we take a moment to recognize those who are celebrating a milestone year with Bradley, Charles said. They are truly part of the fabric of this institution. They have helped make it a special place. We want to call attention to their dedication and let them know how appreciative we are of their commitment to Bradley.
The recipients this year have been working for 40 or more years, including Jeanne Clayton, who is a part of Liberal Art administrative support. She said she recalls her first years at Bradley fondly and what she admires the most about the campus.
When I started in 1977, we had electric typewriters, so handling the coursework for classes is now so much easier with computers and printers, Clayton said. The friendliness and family feeling at Bradley is great. The campus is so inviting.
Other faculty and staff members being honored include James Adrian, Philip Horvath, Edward Sattler and Joan Sattler. As the dean and professor at the College of Education and Health Sciences, Joan Sattler talked about why she stayed at Bradley for the past 40 years.
I love making a difference for our students and creating an environment for them to excel, she said. I have been able to be innovative and creative with programming and have been supported to do so by administrators and colleagues at Bradley.
After spending her entire professional career here at Bradley, Sattler said the honor is significant to her. She said advances in technology have improved the educational experience at Bradley over the course of her career.
Today, we have hybrid and online courses and fully online graduate programs within our College of Education and Health Sciences at Bradley, Sattler said. Our programs have high quality and a greater impact and reach than ever before.
Adrian has been working at Bradley for 45 years as a civil engineering and construction professor, the longest time among those being honored. He offered a piece of advice to younger staff and faculty members.
Focus on an area of expertise that sets you out from others, Adrian said. Bradley University provides a platform for students as well as faculty to excel; take advantage of the opportunity and work will become a passion. Hard work in your early years will yield long-term benefits and a rewarding career.
The luncheon will take place Oct. 30 from noon to 1 p.m. in the Michel Student Center Ballroom.
