Three Pride of Workmanship awardees honored October 30
On October 30, the Rotary Club of Ithaca presented its 16th annual Pride of Workmanship awards to three deserving individuals. The award recognizes area employees whose outstanding work performance in their organization is “above and beyond the call of duty” and is instrumental in the achievement of the organization’s performance goals.
Rotary’s Pride of Workmanship Committee chair Joan Schnaper announced the 2013 winners:
Christine (Chris) Bissen, director of advancement at the Ithaca Sciencenter. Chris has worked at the Sciencenter for 17 years and has advanced from entry level to a key member of the senior management team. She has distinguished herself through careful, accurate work, ability to meet deadlines, and a strong work ethic. Nominator Charlie Trautmann said: “Chris has consistently won the respect of the staff and stepped up to the plate to take on significantly added responsibility for both her department and the planning of a major fundraising campaign.”
Chana Booker, executive assistant at Southside Community Center, Inc. Chana has worked at Southside for 12 years in many capacities, a number of which are far outside of her job description, yet she jumps in and helps when no one else is available. Programs Manager Nagiane Lacka nominated Chana for the award, saying in part: “The Center believes that it takes a village to raise a child, and that all of us are responsible for everyone. Ms. Booker embodies that philosophy. Chana goes far above and beyond in her work with the Southside Community Center and the larger community we serve.”
Tammy Wheeler, office manager at Family and Children’s Service of Ithaca. Tammy has been employed with F&CS since 1988. The quality of her work is exemplary and she helps create an environment that fosters success. David Shapiro nominated Tammy, and said: “What impresses me most about Tammy is how she uses sound and fair judgment, and contributes in the development of the team around her. Those qualities, combined with her professionalism, work ethic and overall devotion to the mission of F&CS led to her recent promotion to office manager.”
The Rotary Club of Ithaca gathers every Wednesday for luncheon meetings held at the Ithaca Country Club at 12:15 pm. The public is welcome to attend to learn more about Rotary; cost is $13. Ithaca Rotary’s motto is “Service Above Self.” Membership is open to all community members who share in this belief; new members are accepted year-round.