Ouachita Stories

Sharon Gattis, data entry specialist for the Office of Development, was recently named Ouachita Baptist University’s 2013 Support Staff Member of the Year.

Gattis, who has worked in the Development Office for 14 years and previously worked two years in the President’s Office, said she was shocked when hearing she had won the award. “It’s an extreme honor to have been chosen among many other deserving and hard-working people,” she said.

“It is always the support staff that make sure that the important details are not forgotten in any organization,” said Terry Peeples, vice president for development. “It is wonderful to know that Sharon has been honored by this award. … It was way overdue!”

The award originated in 2001 and has been coordinated annually by the Ouachita Staff Development Committee. “The campus community is reminded of the important contribution made by the university support staff, and the exemplary work of one staff member is recognized and rewarded,” said Phil Hardin, chairman of the committee and assistant to the president for administration.

During the fall, faculty and staff are invited to nominate candidates for this award. The nominations are then reviewed by the committee and recommended to President Rex Horne, who makes the final decision.

“Sharon Gattis is someone who makes sure the job gets completed,” Peeples added. “I think that Sharon’s example will inspire others who know her.”

For more information, contact Phil Hardin at [email protected] or (870) 245-5405.

By Taylor Tomlinson