Two State Botanical Garden of Georgia staff members are in the UGA Public Service and Outreach (PSO) Employee Spotlight.
Kimberly Futrell, donor relations and special events coordinator, and Will Rogers, conservation research professional, were nominated for the award by State Botanical Garden Director Jenny Cruse-Sanders for their ability to multi-task and to go beyond their basic job responsibilities to further the mission of the garden throughout the state.
Futrell has served a dual role with the garden this year, working both in development and special events.
“She has effectively worked with our horticulture staff to facilitate and locate memorial tributes for the gardens,” Cruse-Sanders said, “while also working with board of advisors members and donors on special events, including the 2024 Gardens of the World Ball.”
Rogers volunteers his time at educational events and in working with students engaged in Learning by Leading, a peer leadership program at the State Botanical Garden.
“Will also works extensively to form partnerships both in and outside of UGA and is an exceptional scientist and communicator,” Cruse-Sanders said. “He takes on new projects and programs willingly, and fully commits to completing the work, meeting deadlines and delivering quality.”
Both employees balance diverse responsibilities and are committed to taking on additional tasks to assist colleagues.
“Both Kimberly and Will go the extra mile to ensure the State Botanical Garden continues to provide exceptional educational programs and events for all Georgians,” said Jennifer Frum, vice president for UGA Public Service and Outreach. “In addition to fulfilling their responsibilities as employees, they exemplify the outreach mission of UGA, the state’s land- and sea-grant institution.”
Both employees received a gift basket of treats and a framed certificate recognizing the award.
Find out more about the PSO Spotlight Award and how to nominate an employee at https://outreach.uga.edu/awards/pso-employee-spotlight/.