Going the Extra Mile 'Sparks' Common Bonds Between Colleagues
12/08/2017
As the staff and faculty of Saint Louis University seek to ignite a passion for professional life at SLU, the compassion their colleagues show from day to day – to students, patients, parents and to fellow staff members – often proves to be the match that lights a “SLU Spark.”
While the days grow shorter and 2017 wanes, Newslink shines a light on a SLU Spark that Fay Ellatif, director of shared services, lit for her colleague Toni Dean in this mini-profile.
A full listing of sparks is available on the SLU Life Blog. All members of the University community are encouraged to send a spark and to learn more about this recognition program.
The Cura program is a response to the SLU community's stated desire to build and sustain a positive workplace culture. All SLU employees have a responsibility to foster a culture of understanding, respect and appreciation for the people with whom they work and interact, as well as, a duty to inspire a collaborative and collegial working, learning and social environment.
Always Going the Extra Mile
Fay Ellatif had known Toni Dean, senior administrative assistant for facilities services, for six years. They had worked together in other parts of the University and in the course of their daily work, Fay came to a realization.
"I realized she really always goes the extra mile to help me," Ellatif said of Dean, "and not just me. She is really looking out for the best interests of the University."
Ellatif noted Dean's openheartedness and dedication, something she herself has come to cherish in co-workers after 11 years at SLU.
"I think it's very valuable," Ellatif explained. "A nice and kind word can make a big difference in a person's life."
She chose to honor Dean's kindness and commitment to SLU through the University's SLU Spark program. It's an effort Ellatif sees as part of SLU's Ignatian mission.
"I think it makes people still believe there is something good in the world, not just money or promotions," Ellatif said. "This can improve the whole community, to be civil to each other. We're not only teaching, we try to find a meaning but we don't ever forget the other most important thing - how to help each other."
Toni Dean was flattered when she received her SLU Spark from Ellatif, " a great colleague and dear friend." She also saw it as part of a work culture at SLU that is meant to foster engagement and positive interactions amongst colleagues.
"Recognizing others for the contributions they make to SLU and the people they work with is a great way to spread positive feedback and encouragement," Dean explained. "Everyday I come to work with a grateful heart and positive attitude. I try to offer encouraging words to my co-workers and offer assistance when needed."
Dean also pays it forward through the SLU Spark program. She returned the favor and nominated Ellatif and also sent her colleague Sue Velten a SLU Spark for her great customer service.
"It's always nice to recognize others for their hard work and to encourage them to keep it up," Dean said.