Employee of the Month for December: Veniesha Massaquoi Recognized

Congratulations to Veniesha Massaquoi from the Occupational Therapy department, who has been named Employee of the Month for December.

^{Veneisha Massaquoi shows off her Employee of the Month assets}

Massaquoi, the Support Operations Administrator for the department, was nominated by Occupational Therapy Professor and Department Chair Donald Auriemma. She received her certificate and award from Carmel Boyle, Executive Director of Human Resources, who shared a detailed list of praise from Professor Auriemma’s nomination letter.

“Veniesha’s performance consistently exceeds expectations,” said Professor Auriemma. “She anticipates department needs, manages her responsibilities promptly, and delivers high-quality work in everything she does. She is a unifying force within our team.”

Auriemma also highlighted Massaquoi’s collaborative spirit, noting that it ensures all team members have what they need to succeed while promoting open communication and mutual respect.

“Veniesha leads by example in every aspect of her work,” Auriemma continued. “She approaches challenges proactively, addressing issues before they escalate. Her dedication to our mission and her ability to inspire confidence in others make her a trusted resource for students, faculty, and staff alike.”

Humbled by the recognition, Massaquoi shared that the award reflects her individual efforts and the support of the whole team.

“This award is not just about my work,” said Massaquoi. “It is a testament to the encouragement, guidance, and opportunities I’ve received from this department. The faculty here provide exceptional academic instruction, cultivate personal connections, and foster a positive learning environment.”

The Employee of the Month initiative was launched in September by interim President Claudia Schrader. It is meant to acknowledge the dedication of staff members across campus. President Schrader and Vice President Eduardo Rios often attend the monthly award ceremonies to celebrate honorees, their departments, and the committee members who select the awardees.