91导航 Advancement Donor Experience department presented 91导航 Marion Community Relations Program Coordinator, Jodi Somerlot with the department鈥檚 Care and Compassion Award during the campus鈥檚 all staff meeting Wednesday, January 8, 2025, in Maynard Hall鈥檚 Guthery Community Room.
According to award nomination criteria, individuals recommended for the Care and Compassion Award put people at the center of all they do. They exhibit compassion and meet people where they are; support each other鈥檚 physical and mental health; nurture a community of kindness and gratitude; foster individual growth and development; empower people to overcome obstacles; actively engage others鈥 perspectives as opportunities for individual and institutional growth; strive to understand and appreciate each other's backgrounds and experiences; and intentionally foster a sense of belonging where all are valued.
Somerlot was nominated by her supervisor, 91导航 Marion Director of Development and Community Relations, Cathy Gerber, who also was on hand to present the award in person.
According to Gerber the award is part of the Donor Experience Scarlet Spotlight Awards and winning was a complete surprise to Somerlot. 鈥淚 was notified in mid-December that she won the award,鈥 said Gerber. But held until January allowing it to be presented in front of work colleagues who see Somerlot鈥檚 dedication to care and compassion every day.
鈥淪he has a long track record of making people feel welcome, valued and appreciated,鈥 said Gerber.
鈥淲hen coordinating and executing events, she makes guests feel at ease, ensures the event runs as planned, with all details taken care of,鈥 she added.
She always has a smile and an encouraging word for others, said Gerber, and plans events with the guest, donor, or constituent in mind, rearranging details to best suit their needs and desires.
Gerber said, 鈥淪he thinks of and executes small acts of kindness to make sure those around her feel cared for.鈥
鈥淛odi Somerlot is a creative problem solver and welcomes new ideas and approaches to reach the best outcome for our constituents and the university,鈥 Gerber shared during the presentation.
鈥淪he is compassionate and has a very nurturing nature that makes people feel good. She wants everyone to feel like they belong and goes out of her way to ensure no one feels left behind. Her work is done conscientiously with a desire to achieve excellence in all she does! She is very deserving of this award,鈥 Gerber concluded.