The purpose of the Non-bargaining Classified Employee of the Month award is to acknowledge and recognize those who are setting the standards for excellence and innovation at Ohio University.

This recognition is Classified Senate’s way of awarding those employees who have shown outstanding individual achievement and performance of their jobs, while inspiring and supporting the achievement of others. Criteria include:

• Positive attitude and serving as a role model
• Productivity and commitment to quality
• Initiative and taking on additional responsibilities

 

The June 2019 recipient is Erin Wooten, an administrative specialist for Conference and Event Services, who was nominated by Adam Grimm, an administrative specialist in the Campus Involvement Center.

The following are a sampling of the comments Grimm wrote about Wooten on the nomination form:

Erin always wants to learn new things and if she does not know the answer, she will find out and get back to me or give me the name of the individual who I should contact. I called her about setting up a room with Adobe Connect for a Lunch and Learn for Classified Staff and she was very professional and wonderful to talk to. She is always willing to help anybody out and she always has a smile on her face. She knows she is not only representing Event Services, but herself as well. I worked with her while she was on the OHIO Ready Staff and I saw these same characteristics as well.

The department is very busy in August and I see where Erin could truly make a positive difference when it comes to the busy time of year when students are coming back.

Erin is her supervisor’s go-to person if he needs to get something done quickly. She is more than willing to bump something up the chain even if that means more work later. She is not only a positive influence on myself but others as well.

These are Erin Wooten’s answers to some get-to-know-you questions:

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

I was so surprised! I was thinking everyone was coming in here for a meeting with someone until they all gathered around my desk and my coworkers joined in too. It was such a surprise and I feel so honored.

What is your job title and how long have you worked it?

I’m an administrative specialist for Conference and Event Services. I’ve been in this position for 2.5 years.

What are the most enjoyable things about your job?

My coworkers. We all work together so well and have a fun time along the way. I’m so proud to be part of this team.

What is your hometown and where do you live now?

I’ve lived in Pomeroy, Ohio, my whole life. My husband and I recently bought a home there and we have no desire to move away. I love it there!

What was the last good book you read?

“Red Dragon,” by Thomas Harris. I’m really into psychological thrillers.

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

Probably something with animals. I used to work in a vet clinic and I loved it.

What things in life are most important to you?

God, my family and my pets are my world. We’re a tight-knit family and love spending time together. I’m truly blessed!

Where is your favorite vacation destination?

I love going to the beach, anywhere on the Gulf side. But I’m looking forward to venturing out to some national parks out west too.

What are your hobbies?

I like riding the motorcycle with my husband; hanging out with our dogs, Wylie and Colt; riding my horse, Scooter; and spending time with our families.

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

Most people seemed surprised to learn that I have horses. Where I’m from, most people either have horses or live next to someone who does, so it isn’t really exciting news. But the people I meet here in Athens usually find that fascinating and want to know more (I can talk about horses all day).

What are your favorite TV shows?

Murder mysteries and psychological thrillers. The show “Dexter” has been one of my all-time favorites and I’m hoping for one final season.

Who are your favorite musicians?

I’m a big Justin Timberlake fan! But I can listen to mostly anything.

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

This year has been full of big events. I completed the first year of my MPA program, bought a home, had the wedding of my dreams and a honeymoon in St. Pete. I think the next big thing I’m looking forward to is starting a family and being a mommy.

What is your dream car/truck/SUV?

I’ve got my eye on a new Ford Explorer. I need lots of room to haul around my large dogs.

What is your favorite saying or quote?

“Everything happens for a reason.” I know that’s a cliché quote, but it’s been so true for me. Everything in my life, good or bad, has led me to where I am and I thank God for that.