Preview
Award Year
2017
Title of Position
Associate Dean of Students
Description
As she marks 40 years at Illinois Wesleyan, Associate Dean of Students Darcy Greder was named the 2017 recipient of the Max L. Starkey Award, honoring a staff member whose loyalty, enthusiasm and outstanding contributions have provided an invaluable service to the IWU community. Staff members noted Greder's work on initiatives such as the first-year parent podcast, volunteer service days for incoming and graduating students, and traditional PB&J nights during final exams. She was commended for her outreach to female students on behalf of the Council for IWU Women, and for her stalwart support of "all things pertaining to diversity at IWU," including the Minority Alumni Network and the campus LGBTQ+ community, serving as "a visible but reasonable voice for all."
And now, this year’s clues…
This year's winner is described as:
- "the ultimate IWU – selfless and humble, hard-working and student-centered"
- "someone who represents Illinois Wesleyan University with all the grace, dignity and respect this institution aspires to promote in our students"
- who "epitomizes the ideals of a servant leader"
- "an anchor that the students cling to when the waters get rough"
- Who helps "cultivate in students the character, personal integrity and leadership skills that align with the mission of Illinois Wesleyan."
She always helps "where help is needed, extending herself if it means that any student will receive an additional opportunity, never complaining that the hours are too long or that her pay is not enough."
Her commitment to IWU for almost four decades shows her loyalty to the university, its mission, and to the students and families who enter the Titan family.
During stressful times, she helps students keep their sense of humor with servings of the ultimate in comfort food.
Once upon a blue moon, she was a pioneer in helping students – representing all colors of the rainbow – to feel welcome on our campus.
Dubbed the "Dean of Mean," she is named by many graduating seniors as a significant influence over their lives.
This year's winner is Darcy Greder.