Baer was honored in the Exempt (salaried) employee category. Employed by FSU for the past three years, Baer is the coordinator for University Wellness. In her position, Baer actively promotes the University’s strategic plan by engaging students in Wellness initiatives through the CHILL (Creating Healthy, Informed, Lasting Lifestyles) program. It was noted in her nomination packet that her sense of integrity complements her tremendous personal character. To those who know Baer, this is no surprise, as she approaches every day and each project with contagious enthusiasm. In fact, it was through her grassroots efforts with CHILL that FSU was recently recognized by the American Heart Association as a Gold Standard Workplace winner.

Wassell was honored in the category of Nonexempt employee. Wassell began her employment at FSU eight years ago. In 2006, she was hired as an executive administrative assistant in the College of Business. Wassell is known by all for her highly conscientious, organized, thorough and cooperative traits. Throughout her nomination packet, it was repeated that she is always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done and to help others. In addition to her employment at FSU, she is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program and will be graduating in May 2012.

James Imes was recognized under the Nonexempt employee/facilities/maintenance category. Imes has been employed at FSU for 39 years. In 1971, he was hired as a temporary service worker in the Physical Plant. Soon after that, he was hired as a locksmith and continues to serve in that capacity almost four decades later. He is involved in all aspects of the University’s various key and lock systems. In short, he is responsible for the integrity of each and every lock on campus. In his free time, he is a member of the Piney Mountain Sportsmen’s Association where he serves on their Board of Directors.

Award recipients were given a plaque, a certificate commemorating their dedication and a monetary award. Staff Awards for Excellence are funded by the FSU Foundation’s Annual Fund Campaign.