PEMBROKE — UNC Pembroke Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings joined other administrators in applauding 92 employees for their years of service during a luncheon on Thursday.
Collectively, the group has dedicated 1,175 years to the university, the state of North Carolina and, more importantly, to the students.
“That’s phenomenal,” Cummings said. “It’s an honor to be here and to celebrate with you. Whether you’ve been here five years or 25 years, I want to personally thank you for your service and what you do every day for this university and our students.
“You are impacting the lives of each other. You are impacting the lives of students–who, with your help–can achieve their dream. You are influencing the next generation and generations to come. What you accomplish here daily and what you do, along with your passion for UNCP, makes a profound difference in the lives of other people,” Cummings continued.
Each was presented with a plaque, a gift before having their photo taken with the chancellor.
After receiving her award as the only 35-year recipient, Interim Provost Zoe Locklear was given a standing ovation for her life-long dedication to the institution. Locklear, who recently announced her retirement, served as the founding dean of the School of Education.
Employees recognized for five years of service are: Shenna Christian, Lucinda Callahan, Wanda Monroe, Phyllis Smith, Chris Swett, Michael Bullard, Austin Sheppard, Joye Gibson, Jocelyn Graham, Joseph Howell Jr., Brittany Hunt Oxendine, Bobby Locklear, Mark Locklear, Kasey Jones, Jaquala Lyons, MaRyia Bass-Maynor, Chunmei Yao, Leah Quick, Lyndon Bullard, Kelley Koch, Andrew Reese, Drew Richards, Okoye Whittington, Mark Gogal, Labretta McBryde, Keith Oxendine, Trudy Anderson, Melissa Gainey, Willis Glassgow, Billy Hunt, Celestine Hunt, Kelvin Jacobs and Damon Richardson.
