Donna Younger Named KU Employee of the Month for November 2020

Hawkinson presenting Younger with award.

KUTZTOWN, Pa. – Congratulations to Donna Younger, custodial worker, on being named Kutztown University Employee of the Month for November 2020.

Younger's nomination from Andrea Kirshman and Nancy Brynildsen, Retention and Student Success, reads:

"Donna is always there to help. She goes above and beyond. We needed to clean out a few offices this summer in our area. When we were doing this, she offered extra trash cans and bags for us to use. She helped immediately to make a herculean task much less so because of her offerings and knowledge. When it was time for the offices to be cleaned, Donna made sure the offices were cleaned to our liking, which was slightly different in each space (and no small feat either).

Donna has been especially mindful of keeping surfaces cleaned and sanitized during the pandemic. It is especially reassuring to know she has our backs during this challenging time.

In the past, Donna has been a ready assistant when dealing with trying situations, such as water leaks in the offices. We don't have to go looking for her – she is always there and ready to handle the situation or help us to do so, which has always proved to be most helpful and appreciated.

We would also consider Donna to be one of the nicest people you would ever meet. She is always pleasant and never complains. In addition, but not job related, she is an excellent baker. Her holiday treats on display rival what you would see in a magazine. No joke! We are all so very fortunate to share in her culinary delights and caring ways.

Donna Younger truly exemplifies what it means to be selfless and caring. She makes us feel special with her treats and always goes above and beyond to assist us in her role at Rohrbach Library. We can't thank Donna enough for all she does! She makes work a better place by simply being herself."

Note: recipients will be recognized in order of presentation, due to scheduling conflicts.

Nominations are collected from students, faculty and staff, and the Employee of the Month is selected by the Human Resources Advisory Council. A winner will be selected each month, and out of the 12 monthly winners one will be selected as Employee of the Year. The Employee of the Month will receive a plaque, reserved parking and a $100 monetary gift sponsored by President Hawkinson.

For more information on the award or to nominate someone, please visit the KU human resources website.