Julie Berglund received the University Staff Appreciation Award for May at University of Wisconsin-Stout.
Berglund, of rural Boyceville, is a laboratory preparation tech senior in the university’s biology department. She has worked at the university for almost 25 years. Chancellor Katherine Frank presented Berglund with the award.
Berglund’s nomination stated: "Each semester, Julie oversees the ordering/inventory of supplies, maintenance of lab instruments, safety signage, hiring and training of student employees, cleaning of lab spaces and assisting instructors with over 20 sections of science general education labs. This impacts nearly 1,000 students each year. Her attention to organizational details has allowed for substantial savings to the university in shared resources between courses. She has a positive and caring attitude and engages on department committees.
"When UW-Stout hosts the Wisconsin Science Olympiad competition, Julie steps up to the plate to make sure the labs and prep areas are secure and that exam rooms have windows covered to prevent the disclosure of exam secrets. Julie has a positive attitude and treats everyone with respect and care. Her colleagues enjoy working with her."
Berglund said she was surprised by the award and humbled and thankful for the people she works with in the biology department.
“I enjoy working with the faculty and staff in preparing for the lab activities they will be doing, but I think working with the student lab assistants brings the most satisfaction,” Berglund said. “I see them learn and grow in so many ways through their experiences at UW-Stout. It’s very gratifying to keep in touch with them after they graduate and move on in their lives after attending UW-Stout. Some will even stop by to visit with me, if they return to campus for something, curious how the labs are going, especially for courses they assisted with.”
Each winner receives a certificate of recognition, a UW-Stout travel mug and a UW-Stout blanket.
Students, faculty and staff may nominate university staff members who demonstrate a commitment to excellence and the university community at the University Staff Employee Appreciation Award nomination form.
The award, in its 15th year, was established by the Chancellor’s Office and is co-sponsored by the University Staff Senate.