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Valerie Bhat, administrative assistant in the Department of Women and Gender Studies, was named the Employee of the Month for the Division of Social Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences for the month of September. She was presented this honor by Dean of Social Sciences, Dr. David Brown in recognition of her dedication, passion and hard work.

"Valerie has been a vital part of this two-person staff team for several years, and as of late, has jumped in, in a way that has really provided valuable support to the department faculty and students. In the COVID environment, Valerie has adapted to creating virtual events like spring commencement, assisting with producing virtual forums and becoming an expert in the needs for remote teaching. Multiple nominations shared how valuable Valerie’s assistance has been in transitioning from hands-on, interactive classroom formats to remote. We’re told she has provided countless hours of assistance with Zoom, CANVAS and expert remote-learning technical support to faculty and students. She always does this with kindness, patience and care. Valerie has been described as ‘treasure’ to the department and ‘simply amazing’. How wonderful to see how expertly people are adapting during these challenging times, and putting themselves out there as a source of support to those who need them. Please join me in congratulating Valerie for receiving this well-deserved award."

Valerie will celebrate ten years working with WGST this January. In her time off work, she enjoys writing and performing music, painting, metalwork, building guitar pedals, and attempting to keep the Cottage's ivy plant alive while she works remotely.