University News
Williams Named 2014 Employee of the Year
June 3, 2014
MACOMB/MOLINE, IL – Curtis Williams, associate director of Western Illinois University-Quad Cities Academic Advising and Student Services, was named the WIU 2014 Employee of the Year by the Council of Administrative Personnel (COAP).
The annual award, presented by COAP, in conjunction with the University president, recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of a COAP member who has far exceeded his or her duties.
Ashly Ochoa (Rock Island, IL), a senior human resource management major, was one of the individuals who nominated Williams for the annual award.
"Mr. Williams exceeds in all areas, including aiding students by any means possible," Ochoa wrote in her nomination letter. "I myself have been greatly affected by his work. A few months back, my family and I were going through a really rough time financially. I did not know who to turn to, but through the referral of one of my present professors, I found myself in his office. Curtis helped me put food on the table for my children at a time when I could not. With this act alone, he is very deserving of the Employee of the Year Award."
WIU Quad Cities and Planning Assistant Vice President Kristi Mindrup noted, "Beyond Curtis' commitment to his daily responsibilities, Curtis is very involved in the community. He provides leadership for programs that foster student success and raise the aspirations of young people….He is in tune with trends such as STEM initiatives that promote engagement in the sciences and prepare students academically and socially for college."
Another nominator described Williams' work as "above and beyond" and "outstanding," and yet another noted that his "depth of knowledge in the student services area, plus working with local community colleges advising students through the transfer process through linkage programs, volunteering in the community helping with blood drives, United Neighbors, Career Expo, etc., brings recognition to the institution and demonstrates character and commitment for the betterment of the community."
Williams began his career at Western in August 1996 as an admissions counselor; he began his current position as associate director of student services and admissions at WIU-QC in 2008.
Williams earned his master's degree in public administration from Drake University (Des Moines, IA) in 2008 and his bachelor's degree in business administration and economics from St. Ambrose University (Davenport, IA) in 1996.
"The COAP Executive Council is pleased to honor Curtis for his hard work and dedication to Western Illinois University," said COAP President Dana Moon.
Williams was presented with a plaque and received a 2014-15 faculty/staff parking permit, BCA tickets, a punch pass for the Donald S. Spencer Student Recreation Center, a WIU Bookstore gift certificate and apparel from WIU Athletics.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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