December 6th, 2022 by WCBC Radio

Frostburg State University recently honored Latisha Cooper, Misty Schurg and Tonya Miller with Staff Awards for Excellence. The annual Staff Awards for Excellence recognize exceptional service to the institution. Recipients are nominated and chosen by their colleagues. 

Cooper, director of Student Accessibility Services, was this year’s recipient in the Exempt (salaried) Employee category. This award is given to a staff member who works diligently with students to not only help them with their study skills and time management, but also actively seeks out resources for them when what is offered doesn’t suit their schedule or needs. As the institution was going through personnel changes and restructuring in Academic Support Services, she was the sole remaining support advisor for students and the department. 

“In addition to the work of her position, she inherited duties and responsibilities of the director position, taking on tasks that would have fallen through the cracks, and single-handedly holding her department together,” said FSU President Ronald Nowaczyk. “She always goes above and beyond her responsibilities to do what is needed for our students.” 

The award in the Nonexempt Employee category was given to Schurg, administrative assistant II in the Student and Community Involvement Office. This award is given to someone who approaches all of their work with positivity, organization and attention to detail. Schurg supports multiple areas, including the Office of Civil Engagement, Student Engagement and the Lane Center. She is also a part of the $900,000+ ASTAR grant and ECHOSTARS program. 

Nowaczyk said, “She is able to masterfully multi-task and balance her workload with multiple individuals requesting her assistance and relying on her. She is quick to tackle interesting projects without hesitation and works tirelessly to ensure positive outcomes.” 

The recipient of the award in the Nonexempt Employee/Facilities/Maintenance category was Miller, housekeeping supervisor I in the Physical Plant Department. The awardee exhibits natural leadership qualities in all aspects of her work and continually strives for the best results. Her housekeeping responsibilities include the Gira Center, Lane University Center, Frampton Hall, Gunter Hall and the Performing Arts Center. 

“When an event or activity is scheduled for her buildings during evenings and weekends, she always ensures that her staff is able to cover – which isn’t always an easy task considering the many events held from daylight to 3rd-shift hours,” said Nowaczyk. 

This year marks the 25th year the Staff Awards for Excellence have been presented. 

Award recipients are given a plaque, a certificate commemorating their dedication and a monetary award. Staff Awards for Excellence are funded by the FSU Foundation’s Annual Fund Campaign. 

For more information, contact the FSU Office of Human Resources at 301-687-4105.