Staff members recognized for milestones; two named Employees of the Year

This is a guest post from Human Resources:

The campus community celebrated service milestones for more than 250 Wake Forest staff members with approximately 2,800 combined years of service. These individuals were recognized at the annual Staff Rewards & Recognition Luncheon Oct. 9 at the Sutton Center. Faculty and staff joined a campus-wide reception in the Green Room of Reynolda Hall later the same day.

Staff members who have achieved 30 or more years of service are:

• 30 years: Elizabeth Berry (Facilities and Campus Services), Tim Covey (Information Systems), Robert Fisher (University Police), Chris Hartsell (University Police), Patricia Martin (School of Law), Pattie McGill (Office of the Chaplain), Tim Snyder (University Advancement), Kobak Taylor (Facilities and Campus Services), Lucinda Westmoreland (Financial Services).
• 35 years: Hugh Brown (Facilities and Campus Services), Thomas Crews (Facilities and Campus Services), Greg Scott (Facilities and Campus Services), Meri Silveri (Mail Services).
• 40 years: Bob Baker (University Advancement), LeAnn Steele (School of Law).

Philip Honaker, an Employee of the Year, waves. Standing with him are his son, five-year honoree Philip Honaker, and President Hatch

Philip Honaker, Plant Operator in Facilities and Campus Services, and Tom Benza, Associate Director in the Financial Aid Office, also were recognized as Employees of the Year. They were nominated by faculty and staff for their contributions in the areas of innovation, integrity, accountability, inclusion, and Pro Humanitate.

Philip Honaker’s nomination reads: Philip has worked hard over his tenure at Wake Forest and has always given great ideas and suggestions to make communication more clear and concise. He always has a smile on his face and does all he can to make things happen as they should. He is here daily to fulfill his obligation to the University, after many years of service. There is nobody he has met that he could not get along with. His desire and dedication to his job and his fellow employees has made him one of the best employees this University has ever had, and he deserves to be honored.

Tom Benza’s nomination reads: Always looking for new ways to do the same old business, Tom is extremely thoughtful, which permeates through his work with just about everyone here on campus. He goes the extra mile, every single time. Widely trusted, respectful, and honorable would all be words to describe Tom.

Employee of the Year Tom Benza and President Hatch

Dealing with tough issues daily, his moral compass always points north. Showing compassion in tough situations while still remaining professional is an artful gift Tom perfects. He goes above and beyond to protect students’ privacy by making sure his office is a safe place and safe space. Tom is a man of his word. Always willing to go to bat for what is right, Tom takes responsibility for his actions. Tom is an advocate for underrepresented student groups at WFU. He makes students feel welcome and important, which fosters a desire for them to continue towards degree completion. Tom’s kindness and compassion is extended to every student and staff member he encounters. Working on behalf of students and staff, he shines as an advocate.