Pride of Indiana is a regular feature in Inside IU where Indiana University faculty and staff can recognize their colleagues for IU-related work they’ve done that goes above and beyond their job duties or responsibilities.
Submit a Pride of Indiana shout-out for a colleague who makes a difference in your department.
IU Bloomington
Amy Bastin, of the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “I nominate Amy Bastin of the O’Neill School for this recognition. She is my supervisor in the Undergraduate Programs Office. I appreciate how she works individually with all of the advisors in our office. We also have regular team meetings that over the last six months have kept us abreast of all the dynamic updates for the university. She is very often cheerful, and that buoys the rest of us. I appreciate her transparency regarding the advising function and how our roles fit into the school and university environment. She is very supportive of challenging student situations.”
Jeff Zaleski, of the Office of the Vice Provost for Research, whose nominator wrote: “Jeff has been a constant source of support and enthusiasm during the pandemic. He meets regularly with his direct reports and also checks in to make sure that things are going well personally and professionally. He has contributed to many of the initial pandemic teams in writing statements about work during the pandemic. He has also been involved in many other smaller projects such as the establishment of the Bloomington pandemic testing lab, helping researchers with figuring out how to accomplish their research and obtaining funding for projects. Through his efforts, research staff are now having discussions with facility operations staff to resolve issues with facility maintenance, construction and planning. He should be recognized for his attitude, enthusiasm, persistence, humor and drive to make a difference at the university.”
IUPUI
Rachel Terlep and Bekah Wuchner, of IU Studios, whose nominator wrote: “This Pride of Indiana message is for both Rachel Terlep and Bekah Wuchner, IUPUI’s social media team. Though communicators are all dealing with so much extra messaging on our plates at this time, they both still manage to find time to give whatever support they can to projects with which we need last-minute assistance. I can always rely on their help and guidance and am so glad digital communicators across IUPUI have them in our corner. Special thanks to you both!”
Nicole Cloud, of the Office of Research Administration, whose nominator wrote: “I am grateful for Nikki’s willingness to answer questions. She is very good at what she does and easily remembers small details. Nikki cares about her co-workers, is always willing to support others and fights for what she believes in. I appreciate her efforts very much. Thank you!”
IUPUC
Maureen Opalka, of Administration and Finance Development, whose nominator wrote: “During this new time of mitigation testing, Maureen has made all the difference! No matter what challenges we face on any given day of testing, she finds a way to get things done, and she does it well! Her great attitude, gracious acceptance of and can-do attitude for newly assigned duties is very much appreciated and noticed! Maureen even throws in some humor for our repeat patrons, making the testing enjoyable and fun. (There’s talk of a disco ball for ambiance and even a rewards card.) She produces a warm environment for others to work in and provides leadership for the team. Thank you, Maureen, for your continued support to help IUPUC meet the needs of the campus with this new assignment during these unprecedented times.”
