Spokane employees honored for superior service

 
SPOKANE – Two employees recently received 2009 Employee Excellence Awards in recognition for their superior service to WSU Spokane, the university and the community.
Joanna Moznette, program coordinator for MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) and Patti  Petersen, principal assistant for the Office of Research and Office of Finance and Operations, were selected by their peers for the Civil Service Staff Excellence Award and the Administrative Professional Staff Excellence Award, respectively.
Moznette, who has been with WSU Spokane for nine years, was described by her nominators as the heartbeat of the MESA office. She is well known and respected in the Spokane community, both as an advocate for MESA and its mission of providing opportunities for underrepresented groups to explore STEM fields, and as a cheerful volunteer at many community events. Her professionalism and strong advocacy for underrepresented groups in the community reflect well on WSU.
“Working with Joanna is simple and easy, and makes me better at my job because of her reliability, courtesy and loyalty,” said Bethany Coupens, middle school coordinator for MESA. “She allows all of us in our office to reach the next level in productivity and efficiency. Because of her, I know our foundation is stable.”
In response to receiving this award, Moznette said: “It is my honor to work with people of such high caliber. I take great pride in working here, and appreciate the opportunities it affords me.”
Petersen, an employee of WSU Spokane since 2004, is noted for her dedication not only in her work, but also in the community. Her work is noted for being exemplary, and her efficiency and productivity are unmatched. Her organization and professional manner are reflected in all entities with whom she works.
“She is a true ambassador to WSU who lives with dignity, integrity and honor in her commitments,” said Dennis Dyck, vice chancellor for Research. “Her grace is seen through her positive attitude as she takes on challenges. She is committed to go above and beyond to ensure each task is done not only on time, but also to perfection. In addition to all her other responsibilities there is no one on this campus or perhaps any other campus, who is a better organizer of events—witness the success of the combined fund drive—this event has Patti’s stamp all over it.”
In response to receiving this award, Petersen said: “I am deeply honored by this award which means much to my family and me. I want to thank my peers for their nomination–it’s been my pleasure to work with such a wonderful group of people.”
Spokane Teachers Credit Union (STCU) sponsored the awards, which were presented at the WSU Spokane Spring Kickoff by Kathleen Kozlowski and Elisabeth Hooker. Petersen and Moznette each received an engraved plaque, an STCU gift basket and a check for $1,500.