Nicholas Le, Coordinator of Aquatics Recreation & Wellness, is the Employee of the Month for March

March 31, 2016

(L to R) Nicholas Le and President John R. Broderick

Nicholas Le, currently the Coordinator of Aquatics with Recreation & Wellness, is Old Dominion University's Employee of the Month for March.

Le has been employed by the University since 2014. He has many responsibilities including, but not limited to, aquatic programming, aquatic facility management, and risk management oversight for the department which is part of the Division of Student Engagement and Enrollment Services.

In his role Le also interacts frequently with student workers and those visiting the Student Recreation Center.

"Working for Nick has been great," said student employee Samuel Margalotti via email. "He's a fantastic director. He's helped me become a leader and own the position that I now hold. He's a boss and a friend who encourages and supports his workers. He creates the best work environment possible, with the best attitude."

Le's supervisor, Bridget Nemeth, added that he has excellent leadership skills; contributes to the university in a multitude of ways; is an engaging and professional presenter and teacher; embraces teamwork and collaboration; and uses his thorough knowledge to set a positive example as a leader.

"Beyond Mr. Le's initiative, he brings a contagious enthusiasm to the work place," Nemeth said. "He enjoys creating a supportive and engaging community with his students and he actively contributes to his colleagues for the betterment of himself and the team."

DETAILS ABOUT THE EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH PROCESS

The University Employee of the Month Selection Committee encourages employees to nominate their outstanding, "go the extra mile" colleagues and employees. This program is designed to acknowledge and reward employees whose accomplishments and/or demeanor exemplify excellence, quality service and commitment to ODU. Classified and AP faculty employees receive a framed certificate from the president, $175 and one day of leave. Hourly winners get $250, since they are not eligible to receive recognition leave.

Note: The selection committee needs specific examples that relate to each applicable criterion in order to select a nominee for the award. Nominations remain active for six months from date of submission and nominators may submit additional documentation to support a nominee during the active six months.

The criteria used to nominate an employee include the following:

• An outstanding accomplishment that benefited the department/students.
• Extraordinary service to internal and/or external customers.
• Inspiring initiative/leadership.
• Enthusiasm/energy given to assigned work.
• Teamwork.
• Exemplary efforts to nurture a climate of care, concern and civility.
• Creative innovations to service, process or work tools.

For more information contact Tony Belk at jbelk@odu.edu or 683-3046, or visit ODU's Employee of the Month website.