Melynda Hart, operations manager in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has been named the College of Engineering's Staff Member of the Year for the fiscal year 2021.

The Staff Member of the Year is chosen from among quarterly winners in the College of Engineering.

In her nomination, Hart was praised for her nimbleness, flexibility, knowledge of processes and for going above and beyond her own job responsibilities in service of the department.

Kim Needy, dean of the College of Engineering, said Hart's work ethic sets a high standard within the college.

"An operations manager is responsible for the way the department operates on a daily basis and in times of need," she said. "It is important that they be organized, forward-thinking and knowledgeable, and Melynda has all those qualities and more. We are privileged to have her on our team."

Department Head Darin Nutter expressed his gratitude for Daily daily.

"Melynda is not only being recognized for her continued dedication and staff leadership, but also for the level of excellence she seeks every day. She contributes greatly to MEEG's successes."

The Employee of the Year program is administered by the College of Engineering Staff Council.

Ashley Reeves, president of the College of Engineering Staff Council, said Hart is the perfect example of an employee who excels at her job.

"The council strives to highlight the exceptional work of College of Engineering staff members, and Melynda is a role model," Reeves said. "We are excited to celebrate and thank her for all she does to make the department and college successful."

Hart, who has worked in the Department of Mechanical Engineering for 11 years, thanked her colleagues and said the award was an honor.

"It is an honor to be recognized among the many wonderfully talented and dedicated staff as we have in the college. I am blessed to have the opportunity to advocate for and serve the faculty, staff and students of mechanical engineering and am greatly appreciative for their kind words and encouragement each and every day."