Photo courtesy of: Classified SenateHelen Kasler (center holding certificate) was joined by her School of Music staff and students during her award presentation

Compass features a Q&A with the non-bargaining Classified Employee of the Month. Each month, Classified Senate selects an employee to acknowledge and recognize as someone who is setting high standards for excellence and innovation. The monthly feature, titled "Great Job," provides a glimpse into the honoree's life on and off campus.

This month’s winner is Helen Kasler, an administrative services associate in the School of Music. As a reward, Classified Senate presented her with a certificate of recognition, a certificate for one paid day off and a bag of goodies that contains items that were donated by various University offices and departments.

Kasler’s nominator, Adam Grimm, said she always has a positive attitude and serves as a role model for employees.

“Helen is always striving to be the best employee by addressing issues as they come up and never being afraid to ask questions,” Grimm said. “Her dedication to the School of Music is remarkable and evidenced by the hundreds of students who believe they would not have succeeded if it wasn’t for her.”

Check out this Compass Q&A with Kasler:

How surprised were you to win the Employee of the Month award?

I really couldn’t figure out what everyone was doing in the office. What a nice surprise!

How long have you worked at Ohio University?

38 years

What is the most enjoyable part of your job?

Interacting with the students and faculty.

What is your hometown and where do you live now?

Athens

What are your long-term goals?

At this point, it is to just get through the day (ha-ha).

What kind of books do you like to read?

Any mystery novel I can find.

If you weren’t in your present job, you would be working as a ______ .

Teacher. I love the students.

What things in life are most important to you?

My family, especially my grandchildren.

Where is your favorite vacation destination?

Hawaii because of the weather.

What are your hobbies?

Reading and computer games

What is something that most people don’t know about you?

My life is sort of an open book.

What are your favorite TV shows?

Hallmark Channel movies and mysteries

What is the next big event you can't wait for?

Watching all of my grandchildren graduate from college.

What is your dream car?

A new Buick

What is your favorite saying or quote?

“The sun will come up in the morning.”