Honorees recognized as student-centered employees
By definition, “The Excellence in University Service Award Program recognizes individuals for their contributions to the essential work of Marquette at the highest level of excellence.” At the heart of the university’s “essential work,” of course, are its students. The personification of that essential, student-focused work is this year’s group of Excellence in University Service Award recipients.
Administrator Award
Karen Desotelle
Director of Student Educational Services
“Karen consistently places the needs of students as her highest priority,” said a nominator. “She takes every opportunity to create teaching moments to assist students in learning how to problem-solve and take personal responsibility as they grow. She is truly dedicated to students making the most of their MU experience.”
“I am reminded each day of the collective commitment, compassion, professionalism and good will evidenced by those who work at Marquette and those who choose to attend the university,” said Desotelle, who oversees the staff and services of the Office of Disability Services and the MUSG Tutorial Program.
Administrator Award
Neal Wucherer
Associate Director of Alumni Memorial Union
As associate director of AMU and Auxiliary Services, Wucherer supports events, activities and programs that take place in the AMU complex. “Being the ‘living room of the campus’ and working with a large student work force allows for a different learning environment, which gives students the opportunity to grow and mature as individuals,” said Wucherer. “We are teachers and role models for our students.”
“Whether a fellow employee, student or a guest is passing through the AMU, his first commitment is to make everyone feel that they are an important part of the Marquette experience,” said a nominator.
Support Staff Award
Coreen Bukowski
Assistant to the Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology Chair/ Family Literacy Project in the College of Education
In her work in the College of Education, Bukowski facilitates the operations of both the department and the literacy project, serving undergraduate and graduate students, as well as prospective students. “I see the lengths she takes to serve our students, staff and faculty, and I am greatly appreciative that she works with us,” said a nominator. “When I watch her interact with our students, I can see that she honestly cares about their well-being.”
“In my job I work with a diverse group of people and perform a variety of duties,” said Bukowski. “What I enjoy mostly is working with the people, both within and outside the Marquette community.”
Support Staff Award
Marilyn Mutzenbauer
Office Associate in University Advancement
Mutzenbauer proofreads and finalizes gift acknowledgments, condolences and other correspondence for the president’s signature. She also updates records of deceased alumni and friends of the university. “Marilyn is unfailingly kind to all of her coworkers and in her every interaction she demonstrates cura personalis,” said a nominator.
“More importantly, she demonstrates professionalism, helpfulness and ‘one team’ spirit to our student workers.”
“I enjoy working with a great team of dedicated and enthusiastic people,” said Mutzenbauer. “I am honored that my colleagues think so highly of me that they would nominate me for this award.”
