Bloomington Leader

Pride of Indiana: Thank-you messages

Pride of Indiana is a regular feature in IU Today where Indiana University faculty and staff can recognize their colleagues for IU-related work they’ve done that goes above and beyond their job duties or responsibilities.

Submit a Pride of Indiana shout-out for a colleague who makes a difference in your department.

IU Bloomington

Debbie Martindale, of the Department of Biology, whose nominator wrote: “Debbie is absolutely a one-of-a kind IU employee! She is the most sought-after go-to person in the biology department because of her genuine caring attitude and willingness to always go above and beyond to help anyone with whatever they need. Debbie is dedicated and loyal, has a great sense of humor, is a great problem solver, cares about everyone and always looks out for the best interests of biology as a whole. In these very tight budget times, as our budget and fiscal director, she has always managed resources well for biology and withstood the stress like a queen. Debbie will retire at the end of the year, and as much as we don’t want to let her go, she deserves it. Biology is a better department because of Debbie Martindale!”

Kevin Tharp, of the Center for Survey Research, whose nominator wrote: “Kevin is a rock star. I can’t imagine where the IU Center for Survey Research or I would be without him. With a recent staff departure, he has once again stepped in to take on additional responsibilities – even with an already full plate. No questions asked, no complaints. He is a model of what a leader, team member and collaborator should be. Kevin is a rare find, and I feel privileged to have him on my team here at IU. I can never thank you enough, Kevin, for the dedication and excellence you bring to CSR and IU!”

IUPUI

Alicia Gahimer, of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, whose nominator wrote: “Alicia Gahimer is a true citizen of the IUPUI community. She goes above and beyond in most everything she does in her job and the volunteer roles she holds on campus. She is a true advocate for staff, faculty and LGBTQ+ mentorship, providing administrative support for the advancement of the formal mentoring programs that target these populations. Anyone will tell you that she is an unwavering champion for those who don’t have a voice or a place at the table. She has been known to use her privilege as a staff council member to give others opportunities to be seen and heard, which has empowered her to take risks for the sake and benefits of all. Often leading from behind so that others can shine, Alicia seeks no accolades. But she is worthy to be recognized for her service to others and deserves to be celebrated.”

IU East

Jesse Whitton, of the East Campus Library, whose nominator wrote: “Jesse Whitton, coordinator of user services at IU East Campus Library, has provided exceptional service in support of a summer reading academy that provides second- and third-grade students with special learning opportunities in the library. He has helped plan, coordinate and implement daily activities for 150 children for four weeks in June. These creative learning programs range from ocean collages to math games. We count on Jesse to organize program details and schedules to ensure smooth operations, and the results are children having positive learning experiences!”

Original source can be found here.