Human Resources’ David Hawkins Named August Employee of the Month

August 28, 2014

(L to R): ODU President John R. Broderick and David Hawkins, August's Employee of the Month.

David Hawkins, a human resources compensation analyst, was named Thursday as Old Dominion University's August Employee of the Month.

In recognition of the achievement, Hawkins - who came to the University in September, 2011 - was presented a framed certificate and check for $175 by ODU President John R. Broderick during an Aug. 28 ceremony at Spong Hall. He will also receive a day of recognition leave in conjunction with the honor.

Hawkins was nominated by Brian C. Dunn, a staffing and operations specialist, who noted that Hawkins always volunteers assistance to coworkers and showcases "exceptional ability" to be a team player.

"Throughout the day, David ensures that his customer service and work ethic always displays a climate of care, concern and civility," Dunn said in his nomination letter. "He also provides suggestions and recommendations, often with the goal of improving various work processes. In all, David is always courteous, friendly and willing to seek happy mediums in all of his business interactions - both internal and external to the Department of Human Resources."

Dunn's nomination was supported by Joseph Belk, acting employee relations manager, who wrote that Hawkins "has a high level of professionalism and is well respected among his peers."

September Sanderlin, vice president for human resources, also supported Hawkins' nomination for Employee of the Month. "His work ethic is exceptional," she said. "He is not afraid to make and stand by unpopular decisions in the best interest of the university."

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.