This week’s ‘Thumbs Up’ recipients

JJ Smith

I would like to thank JJ (Purdue IT) for his prompt assistance on such short notice. We encountered an issue where a user was unable to log into his computer. Given that the user needed access by the end of the day due to travel plans, we immediately submitted a support ticket. Unbeknownst to us, the machine had some complications, but JJ took the initiative to work on it and had it ready by noon. The user was extremely impressed with the speed of his work, and JJ received nothing but praise for his efforts. I wanted to share this recognition with JJ since he was not present to accept it himself. Thank you once again for all that you do; it does not go unnoticed. Your dependability, professionalism and work ethic are unmatched. — Dani Green (Industrial Engineering)

Those who helped repair air conditioning unit in Stone Hall

I want to extend my gratitude to Clint Terrell, Mitchell Smith, Brandon Lieu, Todd Bahler and Devin Hardin (all Operations and Maintenance) for the outstanding effort and dedication you demonstrated in fixing the critical air conditioning unit in record time. Your swift action ensured the continued operation of our human research and blood draw areas, which are vital to the mission of the Purdue Clinical Research Center at Stone Hall. Your teamwork and expertise in resolving the issue not only safeguarded the integrity of our work but also ensured the comfort and safety of our participants and CRC staff. Thank you for your commitment and professionalism in maintaining the high standards we strive for every day. — Josh Shepler (Nutrition Science)

College of Health and Human Sciences graduates

Our team wanted to call out the HHS graduates from Division 9. We have never experienced the sheer volume of graduates expressing thanks and appreciation to our team as they were lining up in the Armory, walking the procession and up the steps of Hovde, crossing the stage and carefully walking down the stairs after hearing their names called. They were so genuinely grateful! We all really needed that bump of encouragement to get us to the finish line for Division 10. We love all our graduates and the village of people it takes to pull off commencement, but we had to share the appreciation for theirs. — Office of the Registrar commencement team

STEM IT

There was a furniture move in Wang Hall that was done on a short timeline, and the STEM IT staff were notified late in the day on a Friday ahead of the impending Monday move. They rallied students to be able to assist with the technology-related aspects of this task, and the move took place Monday as anticipated. Thanks, STEM IT, for your efforts and having given another instance of going above and beyond to help support our faculty, staff and students! — Donna Ahlen (Office of the Provost)

Becky Peer

Becky (Agricultural and Biological Engineering) always makes sure ABE is up and running! Even when she’s had to work from home lately, she’s been planning and organizing, including a staff appreciation lunch a couple weeks ago where we could all get together and a faculty retreat last week. And she’s already hard at work on the fall semester! Thanks for all you do to keep ABE going! — Mandy Limiac (Agricultural and Biological Engineering)

Dakota Sexton, Mike Rogers, Darla Laffoon and crew

Thank you to Dakota, Mike, Darla (all Building Services) and all of their staff for working extra hard to get Winifred Parker Hall ready for summer school move-in during senior week! Your team is exceptional and goes above and beyond the call of duty! Thank you so much! — Shellie Lawson (Residential Housing Operations)

Duane Peterson

Duane (Operations and Maintenance) is an exemplary Zone 4 maintenance crew chief, known for his remarkable ability to get things done with efficiency. Likes and preferences aside, his true passion lies in ensuring every maintenance task is completed to perfection. Long and grueling hours don’t deter him; instead, they fuel his determination to excel. Duane walks through challenging situations with ease and leads his team confidently. At every turn, his leadership inspires those around him. Night might fall, but his commitment to the job never wavers. On the one hand, he values his time at the beach, while on the other, he dedicates equal energy to his responsibilities. The crew benefits from his guidance, maintaining high morale and productivity thanks to Duane’s influence. Beach maintenance may be a task he is capable of, but it’s his efficiency at building maintenance that truly highlights his dedication and skills. — Josh Shepler (Nutrition Science)

Juan Morales and Jan Aynes

A heartfelt thank-you to Juan and Jan (both Operations and Maintenance) for their help in hanging the Memorial Day flags at the Physical Facilities Service Building. Your kindness, thoughtfulness and attention to detail are truly appreciated — I’m grateful for everything you do! — Terri Griffin (Operations and Maintenance)

Building Services staff who assisted with commencement

I want to thank Steven Conley, Jovane Fernandez, John Gaddy, Sandy Winningham, Nate Homan, Brenda Serrano, Matt Reed, Melissa Lovell and Matt McClain for supporting spring commencement. — Steven Raley (Building Services)

Laurie Millam

Throughout our careers, we have worked under the leadership of many managers, but Laurie (Purdue Global School of Business and IT) stands out as truly exceptional. Her thoughtful leadership style, genuine willingness to listen and continuous encouragement to explore new ways of engaging with our students have left a lasting impression. Laurie brings solutions and supports us in finding the best path forward, always focusing on progress and possibility. Her leadership is constant and intentional, as she always listens, observes and asks thoughtful questions that prompt growth and reflection. Even though our interactions have been entirely virtual, Laurie has established a meaningful and authentic connection that has enriched our professional growth. She leads with compassion, supporting her faculty and fostering their growth as leaders through her example, which has strengthened our teaching practices and empowered us to approach our work with renewed energy and confidence. Laurie’s leadership is a dynamic, catalytic and deeply impactful, authentic leadership that inspires more leadership, which she exemplifies in every way. — Julie Dort, Glenn Walton and Mimi Gough (Purdue Global School of Business and IT)