On Sept. 20, during the beginning portion of ETSU’s Equity and Inclusion Conference, the 2021 Staff Woman of the Year Award was announced during a pre-recorded segment.
This year’s award was given to Kate Emmerich, the program coordinator of OASIS (Outreach and Advocacy: Sexuality Information for Students).
“This award acknowledges a female staff member who has contributed to the workplace through her professional achievements, dedication, inspiration and service to the ETSU community and the region at large,” said Jennifer Hall, chair of the Commission for Women Standing Committee, a group which votes on the award.
Since the award’s inception in 2012, this year held an unprecedented amount of nominations by faculty and staff, according to Hall. Previous awards recipients include Jill Fair, Julie Blevins and Laura Terry.
“Staff have provided care, staff have provided compassion,” explained ETSU President Brian Noland. “Staff have helped students on their best days, and staff will help students through some challenging days. That staff is what we celebrate today, but today we celebrate the best of the staff, and we recognize one of the most outstanding staff members of East Tennessee State University. “
According to the nomination form, the award recognizes women who have “made a notable impact in the workplace and improved the quality of life for others, whether through inspiration, service to ETSU, community service, support of women’s causes or organizations, or professional accomplishments above and/or outside normal job responsibilities”.
In order to be nominated, faculty and staff are required to explain the notable qualities, achievements and accomplishments of the candidate.
Emmerich will receive a $1,500 cash award with her plaque recognizing the honor.
To learn more about Emmerich and her contributions to ETSU, visit etsu.edu/students/counseling/kateemmerich.php.
