"Kobak Taylor" Archive

IdeasCityWS panel discussion: "From the Ground Up" and workforce development

In October 2019, Wake Forest University housekeeping staff, arborists, turf crew members, locksmiths and carpenters were among nearly 70 staff members who participated in “From the Ground Up,” an original dance performance held on Hearn Plaza. Directed by Allison Orr (’93) of Forklift Danceworks in Austin, the production elevated the dedicated people whose skillful work often goes unseen. Members of the Wake Forest facilities management team bump fists in front of Wait Chapel

To commemorate the anniversary of this groundbreaking event, IdeasCityWS will host a “Beta Bonfire” panel discussion on Thursday, Dec. 10 at 5 p.m., looking back at the production through the lens of workforce development. Christina Soriano, associate provost for the arts and interdisciplinary initiatives associate professor, will moderate the virtual conversation.

Presenters include:

  • Allison Orr, Founder and artistic director of Forklift Danceworks in Austin, Texas;
  • John Shenette, Vice president of Facilities and Campus Services at Wake Forest University;
  • Stephanie Poskin, Senior director of Wake Forest Facilities Support Services & Operations;
  • Kobak Taylor, “From the Ground Up” performer and Wake Forest Facilities and Campus Services locksmith;
  • Cynthia Wilson, “From the Ground Up” performer and Wake Forest custodial department team lead; and
  • Matt Crawford, Senior theatre major from Austin, TX, and a student leader on the “From the Ground Up” project.

A documentary that captures the spirit of the performances is available for viewing as background for the discussion.

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is available here.

Categories: EventsFaculty NewsStaff News

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.

EOY

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.

Categories: Guest PostInside WFUStaff News

April 2013 staff milestones

See a list of employment milestones reached by staff in April 2013: Read more

Categories: Staff News

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