Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, April 2, 1993 TAG: 9304020424
SECTION: FOUNDERS DAY PAGE: FD-6 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
EARNESTINE GILLISPIE EARNS PRESIDENT'S AWARD FOR 1993
Some people say you don't appreciate what you have until it is gone. That isn't the case for the people who work in the labs and offices on the third floor of Litton Reaves Hall.They have a gem in housekeeper Earnestine S. Gillispie and they know it. They have shown her just how much they appreciate her by nominating her for the university's 1993 President Award for Excellence.
"Largely because of the quality efforts of Earnestine Gillispie, the work environment on the third floor of Litton Reaves Hall is exceptionally clean and the best it has been since the building was occupied in 1981," says Kenneth E. Webb Jr., professor of animal science, in his letter of nomination.
Gillispie has worked at Litton Reaves since 1987. And "during this time she has shown herself to be very dependable and conscientious," says J. Wyatt Sasser, director of Custodial Services, who supported her nomination.
She modestly replies, "I just do my work and try to get along with everybody. I'm still in shock about it. I expect to wake up and find it's all a dream. I am so proud that they think enough of me to want to nominate me."
Reduced staffing and budget constraints have made it necessary for everyone to put forth an extra effort, but Gillispie's efTforts go even further. "Earnestine took the initiative to set up a stripping/waxing schedule in order to improve the appearance of the floors in her area," explains Sasser. "She did this hard work by herself because of our limited manpower. This is just one example of the dedication Earnestine has toward her work and her customers."
Webb adds, "She probably buffs the halls of the third floor more in a month than they were buffed in the life of the building prior to her arrival."
Both Sasser and Webb comment on the pride Gillispie takes in her work. "She takes pride in the appearance of her area and feels it is a direct reflection on her if it does not meet her expectations," says Sasser. And Webb notes, "Mrs. Gillispie exhibits an exceptional personal pride, enthusiasm, initiative, and motivation toward her work that is an inspiration to others."
Those who know and work with Gillispie comment that she is pleasant, polite, cooperative and always willing to help. "She projects a positive image of the department and we consider her a valuable asset," concludes Sasser.