FENNING NAMED ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
By all accounts, Robert L. Fenning has done nothing less than an extraordinary job since assuming the role of acting vice president for administration and finance last year.
In addition to his previous duties of oversight of capital planning and construction, facilities management, human resources, material management, risk management, public safety, and environmental health and safety, he has successfully taken on responsibility for budgeting, computing, finance, financial aid, and registration and records.
"Filling both these positions (acting and associate vice president) is a phenomenal feat for a person to manage," said Phyllis Brown, business manager for the College of Sciences. "As first and second person in charge of the many units that comprise the Office of Administration and Finance, there is no better person than Mr. Fenning to mesh these duties."
As recipient of Old Dominion's Administrator of the Year Award, Fenning receives a $500 cash prize. The award is sponsored by the Association of University Administrators.
An Old Dominion employee since 1996, Fenning assumed the role of acting vice president following David Harnage's departure in July 2000. Known for his commitment to customer service, he championed the implementation of a comprehensive customer relations training program for the division of administration and finance and helped the human resources department implement the most comprehensive overhaul of the classified employee compensation system in 40 years.
Additionally, Fenning has played a key role in the improvement of the campus appearance, including spearheading the major renovations to Constant Hall and deftly maneuvering through bureaucracy to begin the University Village.
According to Deborah Swiecinski, university budget officer, Fenning is "an individual of high standards and integrity."
"He is committed to the university and to doing a good job. He is often in his office late into the evenings and arrives on campus in the early morning hours. Bob respects his staff, relies on their expertise, and acknowledges individuals for the hard work that they have done."
Betty Diamond, director of student financial aid, wrote in her nomination: "He has earned the respect and loyalty of the hundreds of staff who report to him."