BOONE—Joy Osborne, Ben Winebarger and Lynn Secreast are this year’s recipients of the Appalachian State University Staff Award.

The annual award recognizes individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the life of the university. The awards will be presented during convocation on Sept. 6.

Osborne is the administrative assistant for the N.C. Teaching Fellows Program in Appalachian’s Reich College of Education. Osborne was praised for her competence, efficiency and conscientiousness that she brings to the job.

“The students love to come to the office because they know there will be a smile and encouraging words to welcome them,” a nominator wrote.

There are 240 students in the teaching fellows program at Appalachian. Osborne gives each one personal attention, whether it’s a “shoulder to cry on” or helping freshmen ease the transition to college life.

“Our alumni can tell you something that they learned from Joy that helped them become a better person or partner,” the nominator wrote.

As senior shop supervisor in Appalachian’s Physical Plant, Winebarger helps keep the university running in top form.

“His unrivaled knowledge of the university infrastructure has been instrumental in the successful completion of many new buildings and numerous renovations to existing buildings,” Winebarger’s nominator wrote. “He is quick to support any and all events for the student body, athletics and staff, ensuring that all requirements are met on time and above expectations.”

Winebarger has helped improve work flow through the Physical Plant and lowered Workman’s Compensation claims through compliance with OSHA requirements. With his knowledge as chief of the Meat Camp Volunteer Fire Department, Winebarger reviews all university projects for fire safety and ensures that the campus fire sprinkler and hydrant systems are in working order.

Secreast works with Information Technology Services on campus. She has been instrumental in assisting staff in the university’s Academic Advising Center implement a new software package that manages student information.

The ability to communicate with students and access needed information in a timely manner is critical for academic advisors.

“Lynn and her staff have worked around the clock to launch a new student information module, helping this transition be as seamless as possible,” a nominator wrote. “Her excellent and competent work provides the foundation for the important first and continuing connection between students and academic advisors, as well as the campus at large.”

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