Diana Stephens, ODU Police Emergency Coordinator, is the July Employee of the Month

July 29, 2015

(L to R) Diana Stephens and Vice President for Human Resources September Sanderlin

Diana Stephens first joined the Old Dominion University Police Department in April, of 2001. As an emergency coordinator, she is an asset to the communications division and has gone above and beyond the call of duty several times in more than 14 years with the University.

According to Stephens' supervisor, C.M. Christie: "She is thorough in her job duties and courteous in addressing customers at the public safety window. She is pleasant, understanding, thorough in her interactions with customers and quick to address officer needs via radio communications. She handles call volume and dispatch related tasks in a timely manner, which helps ensure the safety of our officers and security personnel. Stephens is being recognized as someone who performs impressively, and goes above and beyond in her support of her field units. Regardless of the situation, she will do everything possible to make sure her performance is steady and strong."

Stephens demonstrated her dedication during recent staffing shortages, due to inclement weather, by offering to pick up shifts when others were unable to work.

DETAILS ABOUT THE EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH PROCESS

The University Employee of the Month Selection Committee encourages employees to nominate their outstanding, "go the extra mile" colleagues and employees. This program is designed to acknowledge and reward employees whose accomplishments and/or demeanor exemplify excellence, quality service and commitment to ODU. Classified and AP faculty employees receive a framed certificate from the president, $175 and one day of leave. Hourly winners get $250, since they are not eligible to receive recognition leave.

Note: The selection committee needs specific examples that relate to each applicable criterion in order to select a nominee for the award. Nominations remain active for six months from date of submission and nominators may submit additional documentation to support a nominee during the active six months.

The criteria used to nominate an employee include the following:

• An outstanding accomplishment that benefited the department/students.
• Extraordinary service to internal and/or external customers.
• Inspiring initiative/leadership.
• Enthusiasm/energy given to assigned work.
• Teamwork.
• Exemplary efforts to nurture a climate of care, concern and civility.
• Creative innovations to service, process or work tools.

For more information contact Tony Belk at jbelk@odu.edu or 683-3046, or visit ODU's Employee of the Month website.