by Ann Marie Deer Owens Dec. 21, 2018, 6:51 AM
Maureen Casey, chief administrative officer for the Mass Spectrometry Research Center, is the latest recipients of the Chancellor’s Heart and Soul Staff Appreciation Award.
Casey has worked for more than two decades at the Mass Spectrometry Research Center, watching it grow from a handful of employees to over 45. “Maureen Casey is described by her colleagues as a ‘beacon of knowledge, compassion and leadership,” Zeppos said. “She has trained scores of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, junior faculty and administrative faculty in understanding regulations and adapting to changes over time. Equally impressive to her exemplary job performance is her interpersonal caring and concern for others.”
Casey also received thanks at the presentation from Richard M. Caprioli, Stanley Cohen Professor of Biochemistry and director of the Mass Spectrometry Research Center, who noted her deep empathy for others and willingness to listen and offer advice when asked.
Casey was nominated by M. Lisa Manier, senior research specialist at the center, who wrote that Casey’s concern for others in Mass Spectrometry has extended to even offering childcare so parents can have “date night” and helping new arrivals find housing.
Casey, who is retiring in April 2019, expressed deep gratitude for the award. She received a $1,500 cash prize and a pen in a box carved by Nashville artist Brenda Stein from the recycled wooden doors of Alumni Hall.
The Heart and Soul award was created by the chancellor in 2017 to recognize staff members who go far beyond what is set as the standard in their position. Staff are nominated for the award by their supervisors, managers and colleagues. Nominations focus on a specific instance when a staff member did more than what was expected and for carrying the spirit and mission of Vanderbilt in all they do.
