Karrin Ruch, executive assistant for the Dean of Students Office, received the University Staff Appreciation Award for February.
The individual nominating Karrin stated, “Karrin is proud to be a member of UW-Stout. She is excellent at her job and finds ways to be involved on campus. During COVID, she was willing to work part time at Student Health Services to assist during a very stressful time.
"She helps co-manage Helping Hand Food+ Pantry. She didn’t even hesitate. Not only has this added to her workload, but she continues to go above and beyond by taking personal time to make sure the pantry is in order, shopping for items and washing clothes and items for students. She continues to find ways to make it more accessible and helpful to our students.
"Karrin is the perfect front face for the Dean of Students Office. You can't 'train' the way she greets people and the compassion she shows others when they are struggling or in distress.
"These past years in our office have been trying as we have experienced a lot of transition and reduction in staff. She has had to adjust to new staff, new duties, concerned students, new technology and supervision of student employees. She is an amazing friend and colleague and makes doing this sometimes-difficult work so much more enjoyable."
Each employee of the month receives a certificate of recognition and a gift presented by Chancellor Katherine Frank. The award, in its 19th year, was established by the Chancellor’s Office and is co-sponsored by the University Staff Senate.
