Whiddon College of Medicine staff recognized for excellence

Recipients of the Staff Recognition Awards, back row: Alice Nolen, Stephanie Roote, Connie Land, Jennifer Collins, Meredith Moody, with John Marymont, M.D., M.B.A.; front row: Rosemary Roberts, Helen Moore, Joanne Brookfield, Kelly Wood, Brooke Thistlethwaite, and Tony Lamm. Not pictured: Melisa Pierce, M.P.A.

Twelve staff members were honored at the second annual Whiddon College of Medicine Staff Recognition Awards on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Hosted by the Dean's Office, the awards were presented during a special breakfast in the Dean's Conference Room. 

John Marymont, M.D., M.B.A., dean of the Whiddon College of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs, thanked each of the staff members for their service to the university before presenting them with framed certificates. The awardees, who also received swag bags, were nominated for exhibiting excellence in job performance, possessing strong work ethic, and being team players. 

Three of the honorees earned top recognition: Joanne Brookfield, Meredith Moody and Helen Moore. In addition to certificates and swag bags, they received invitations to the WCOM tailgate and tickets to the South Alabama football game against Arkansas State on Saturday, Nov. 11. 

Below are excerpts from colleagues' nominations of this year's award recipients: 

• Joanne Brookfield, director, Educational Technologies and Services  – “Since 2020 when we were affected by COVID and subsequent staff shortages, Joanne has stepped up and consistently picked up the additional workload to keep our academic programs on track. She is at work early, stays late, and works weekends as needed to ensure that there is no disruption to our undergraduate, graduate and continuing medical education activities.”
• Jennifer Collins, grants administration specialist, Center for Lung Biology – “Despite the sometimes overwhelming nature of the work, Jenn never complains and, in fact, offers a listening ear and voice of encouragement when the rest of us are frustrated and exhausted. Her work keeps our projects funded and her kind disposition keeps our team happy.” 
• Tony Lamm, management systems specialist, Medical Education – “Tony is phenomenal at what he does. Not only is he talented, but he also goes above and beyond to make sure faculty, students and staff in the WCOM have properly functioning technology so they may be productive and meet their research/educational/administrative objectives.”
• Connie Land, accountant, Student Affairs – “She is always eager to lend a helping hand and easily handles unexpected tasks, making her an essential and valued member of the Student Affairs team. Connie's dedication to excellence and willingness to exceed expectations make her a tremendous asset to the WCOM community.”
• Meredith Moody, program coordinator, Microbiology and Immunology – “She quickly picked up her duties and responsibilities to make the lives of our faculty members much easier. Indeed, she is our only support staff for the department, and she currently plays the roles of two to three administrators.”
• Helen Moore, research administration specialist, Grants Research Office – “She carefully examines all the grant's details, providing invaluable assistance to all principal investigators at the Mitchell Cancer Institute. Her friendly demeanor and punctuality make her a valuable asset to the WCOM. Additionally, her dedication and efficiency in completing tasks consistently contribute to our success.”
• Alice Nolen, faculty affairs specialist, Faculty Affairs – “Alice is well respected by Whiddon College of Medicine faculty and staff. She is a team player, who possesses a strong work ethic and displays excellence in job performance. She takes pride in her work and she is dedicated to the success of the WCOM.”
• Melisa Pierce, M.P.A., director of quality improvement, Office of Accreditation and Planning – “Ms. Pierce has become one of the most valued and trusted sources of information and support across the Whiddon College of Medicine. … She frequently proposes new directions, challenges existing strategies, and supports others within the Office of Accreditation and Planning, all in an effort to improve the WCOM.” 
• Rosemary Roberts, laboratory manager, Microbiology and Immunology – “Rosemary has trained many students, undergraduate and rotating graduate students on proper laboratory technique. Additionally, she’s the lab’s biggest cheerleader. Any time someone has an event or milestone, she goes out of her way to ensure they feel confident and prepared. Rosemary is such a kind and caring soul, she deserves more praise than we are able to give.” 
• Stephanie Roote, associate director of financial aid, Student Affairs – “She is a highly dedicated worker who takes the time to meet with students individually every year. She addresses common concerns students have regarding debt and creates a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable discussing their financial worries with her. Thanks to her efforts, Stephanie has built strong relationships with the students she works with.”
• Brooke Thistlethwaite, accounting data specialist, Pharmacology – “Brooke is the ultimate problem solver, working tirelessly to maintain schedules, finances, and more. Her presence here is integral not only to successful completion of our projects, but also in boosting team morale. The department would not function as well without her.”
• Kelly Wood, business manager, Business Office – “If you have a question, chances are Kelly knows the answer. Kelly is a wealth of knowledge! She has been wonderful at training and onboarding new employees the past two years. She works hard to make sure everything is tied out and correct. She always has a smile on her face and is wonderful to work with!”