A Night of Recognition: WAU’s Annual Employee Appreciation Event
TAKOMA PARK, MD – Washington Adventist University (WAU) emphasized the importance of a motivated team by hosting an appreciation banquet on Nov. 8, 2023. Organized by the Human Resources department, the event aimed to bolster morale and acknowledge employee dedication.
Lily Snyder Gregory, assistant HR director at WAU, was instrumental in planning the event. The preparation, which began nearly a year in advance, focused on selecting a comfortable venue, suitable catering, and entertainment options. Maggiano’s, an American casual dining restaurant specializing in Italian-American cuisine, was chosen for the venue.
The evening centered around the Service Record Award, recognizing employees for their tenure at WAU, including those with 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 45 years of service. Gregory highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) and WAU Social Committee to ensure a successful outcome.
The banquet featured Pastor John Daniel of SASDAC as the guest speaker, who was recommended by the university’s president, Dr. Weymouth Spence. Daniel’s speech delighted the audience addressing the significance of education in a fast-evolving society.
Four long-serving employees, Ms. Anne Saggurthi at 45 years, Mr. Harry Childs and Mr. Lloyd Yutuc at 35 years, and Mr. Fitzroy Thomas at 25 years, was particularly acknowledged.
Yutuc, with 35 years of service, started in WAU’s food service and eventually managed the bookstore, a key revenue source for the university. He shared the challenges faced in a competitive textbook market and the joy of working with students. “Dealing with young people and trying to match their evolving desires is the most rejuvenating part of my work,” Yutuc said.
Mr. Thomas, celebrating 25 years at WAU, expressed his appreciation for the banquet and the university’s mission. As a WAU alumnus, he began working in the registrar’s office before transferring to the Betty Howard Center for Student Success, contributing significantly to its development. “Of Jacob it was said that he worked many years for Laban for the privilege of marrying Rachael– and the years seemed like nothing. I feel much the same way about my years here”.
Dr. Kisunzu, WAU’s provost, spoke on the meaning of appreciation, emphasizing that the event was not only enjoyable but also a reminder of the university’s mission and the value of its staff and faculty. “I believe that it is best understood when we unwrap the meaning of the word ‘appreciate,’” she said. “Upon review, you will discover that ‘appreciate’ is defined as ‘to be aware or fully understand that something is valuable.'”
Looking ahead, the HR department plans to send out surveys in January to gather feedback and improve future events. The overarching aim is to continuously show gratitude for the hard work of WAU’s members, essential to the university’s success.