My Steering Committee colleagues and I, with the support of this year’s R&R planning committee, would like to use this occasion to recognize one individual in particular without whom we could not have accomplished what we did over the past year. This unsung hero was a key player in the successful transition to the Libraries’ new organization and in helping us move, step-by-step, toward our Desired Future State.
Whether it was providing input to the reorganization process, participating in the analysis of workflows, staffing the service desk, ensuring access to our collections, or keeping the proverbial trains running on time, this person could be counted on – counted on to get the job done. With sleeves rolled up and eyes on the prize, this person was, and always has been, driven by one overarching goal – service excellence. This person was also instrumental in the enormous success of the six-month long celebration of MIT’s sesquicentennial. I know that this person’s hard work, perseverance and commitment to the Libraries have been an inspiration to all of us at one time or another. I think you will agree that this person represents the very best of the MIT Libraries.
And so I am proud to present this year’s award to a most deserving individual: YOU. Yes, you, and you, and you. Take a moment to pat yourself on the back and to thank those around you for getting us through a challenging year and for keeping us focused on the future. As a token of our deep appreciation to you, the R&R program funds were used this year to provide each administrative and support staff member with a $50 gift certificate to amazon.com. R&R committee members will be distributing these during the luncheon – there is one with your name on it. Once again, I want to thank each of you for your individual, invaluable contributions to the MIT Libraries.