The University Relations Department has been named the recipient of June’s Acts of Kindness Award.
One of the nominators wrote, “In addition to being excellent at their jobs, this department shows the true meaning of a giving spirit, and performs a variety of acts of kindness within the St. Thomas community and beyond. Members of the University Relations staff organize the fall and spring cleaning and raking of the center islands between north and central campus in St. Paul. This is something that is definitely beyond the scope of any of their jobs. But, I certainly appreciate their willingness and hard work to keep our campus beautiful.”
Another nominator wrote, “University Relations has a group of people who has taken it upon themselves to know when there is a need for flowers, notes, gifts and support of fellow staff members as well as other members of the UST community.
“As someone who experienced their encouragement and support and special notes while I was ill, it was without a doubt some of the kindest words said to me and in support of me I have ever received; and I know that I am not alone with this observation.”
The nominations also cited staff members’ regular participation at Loaves and Fishes in Frogtown and in Meals on Wheels in Merriam Park. For Christmas, the department “adopts a family” and provides holiday presents for a family. Department members also have volunteered with Habitat for Humanity.
The Acts of Kindness Award is a traveling trophy that is presented to a person or a group each month.
The UST community is invited to nominate a student, faculty or staff member, a UST organization or a department that has done something kind to make St. Thomas a great place to learn, work or live. Fill out the form on the Acts of Kindness website.
The award is part of the UST Acts of Kindness Campaign, which identifies, promotes, supports and inspires acts of kindness across the UST community. The campaign was created by the Office for Mission and Edna Comedy, associate vice president of human resources.
