FMU staff members recognized at annual Staff Awards

Pictured left to right: Chad Herlong, Benjamin Johnson, Karen Herbert, and Tina Gause

Francis Marion University recognized four employees for their outstanding service to the university during the annual FMU Staff Awards luncheon held on campus Thursday.

Chad A. Herlong received the John J. Kispert Leadership Award, Karen M. Herbert was awarded the Marvin Lynch Humanitarian Award, and Tina T. Gause and Benjamin M. Johnson were named recipients of the two Outstanding Staff Service Awards.

Herlong, the recipient of the Kispert Leadership Award, is an electrician at the university. His colleagues praised him for his ability to adapt and take charge during critical periods to ensure campus functions continue seamlessly. He was also noted for his leadership, professionalism, and drive to complete tasks.

Herbert, the winner of the Lynch Humanitarian Award, is the lab manager for the chemistry department. She was recognized for her commitment to excellence and ability to organize and administer major interdisciplinary activities. She was also commended for the work she does to promote the university and her department.

Gause, the recipient of the Outstanding Staff Service Award for Service Departments, is employed in Facilities Management. Her colleagues nominated her for her unmatched attention to detail, dependability, and initiative. She was also noted for the pride she takes to ensure that all spaces on campus reflect FMU positively.

Johnson, who received the Outstanding Staff Service Award for Academic and Administrative Support Staff, is the IT and Simulation Specialist for the School of Health Sciences. He was lauded for his dependability, enthusiasm, and the visionary approach he brings to technology as well as how he continuously assists faculty to provide invaluable training with cutting edge skills to students.

FMU President Fred Carter praised the award recipients.

“Today we recognized four of our finest staff members,” said Carter. “They are all fully committed to the university’s purpose – both in educating our students and serving their colleagues on the staff and faculty. They are richly deserving of these awards and are integral to making this harmonious community what it has become over the years.”

Other FMU employees were recognized for their years of state service during the event. David Lee Daugherty, Tammy C. Sneed, and Dennis M. Sullen were recognized for ten years of state service. Celebrating twenty years of state service was Mark G. Gaynor. Donald L. Jackson was recognized for thirty years of service to the state. 

Two retirees from the past year were also honored at the luncheon: Bonnie B. Barr and Art H. Inabinet.