2007 Outstanding Staff: Lauren Jackson
LAUREN JACKSON'S co-workers say that the unparalleled degree of dedication and competence with which she performs her job is not what makes her an asset to them, CAFNR or the University. Rather, they say that it is her honest and selfless desire, coupled with her infectious friendliness that makes CAFNR a fun place to work and learn and the University a better place to be.
In her capacity as a program coordinator and a member of project support personnel, Jackson is often called upon to pick up the slack, plug the hole and train the new hire. Although some might be overwhelmed by this much responsibility, Jackson's endless kindness make the transition periods easy, and her mentoring helps new hires feel right at home.
Her impact also extends to the undergraduate assistants that she is in charge of managing. Her leadership style makes them comfortable and eager to perform to the best of their abilities. Although she does a great job in encouraging them to work, the students benefit the most under her careful mentoring of their exposure to a wide range of research and office tasks. Jackson's influence on these young students is apparent when they come back to ask her advice and share their stories.
Frazzled individuals frequently seek out Jackson at the last minute for help with grant submissions and their navigation through the University. Although this is never a small task, Jackson doesn't just take time out of her day but devotes personal time to help people through the process to its completion with the warmth of a friend.
Faculty and staff admire her not simply for her ability to see difficult projects through, but also the integral role she plays in maintaining the social cohesion of the department. In addition to coordinating the annual departmental Christmas party, Jackson motivates everyone to spend time together outside of work. It is because of this that her co-workers credit her for creating a work environment that is comprised of friends and people who like to be around each other.