Please join us from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, May 17, in O’Shaughnessy-Frey Library, Room 108, to celebrate the retirement of Pat Alexander.
Pat began working at St. Thomas Oct. 25, 1999. The job was a unique one: half time administrative assistant in Faculty Development and half-time in the Luann Dummer Center for Women. Pat’s unique abilities have allowed her to excel in both positions. She has often been recognized for her excellence, earning the “Heart of St. Thomas Award” in 2002, the Non-Exempt Staff Employee of the Year in 2008, and the Sister Pat Kowalski Award in 2012.
Pat Alexander
Pat has been the “face” of the women’s center since her arrival, and it is hard to imagine the center without her. Her competence is unparalleled, and her knowledge of the university extensive.
Pat’s generous hospitality has made an indelible mark on the center. Never satisfied to simply fulfill her job requirements, Pat consistently goes above and beyond those expectations. One of the long-lasting contributions she has made is the founding of Yarn Tamers, a group of faculty, staff, students and community members who gather once or twice a week to knit and crochet. This group has contributed baby bonnets, prayer shawls and blankets to various community organizations.
I have always said that Pat’s work makes me look good! She keeps track of all of the details for our many programs and often reminds me of what I need to do. But even more than that, I have gained a friend in Pat. I will miss talking to her almost every day.
Pat has also served as administrative assistant in the Faculty Development Center and has made a lasting mark there, using her amazing organizational skills to manage innumerable faculty grant contracts and keep track of event details.
According to center director Ann Johnson, “Pat is just incredible to work with. She remembers everything and keeps us all afloat. I’ve known Pat in both jobs for years; she is a constant, positive, lovely presence in both centers and I’m happy I had the opportunity to work closely with her this past year. We will miss her greatly.”
Pat has worked under three directors at the Women’s Center and four directors at Faculty Development. Pat writes, “These two positions have enabled me to virtually come into contact with almost all faculty, staff and many students. Building these networks and establishing these relationships has been the best part of both of my jobs, and what I will miss most about leaving UST.”
While we will miss Pat, we wish her the best in her new ventures. She plans to volunteer either with the National Park Service or with the United Methodist volunteers during the winter months. When she is town, she plans to return to campus to attend some of our events and participate in Yarn Tamers. Please join us in wishing her the best of success in all of her endeavors.
Pat's last day of work will be Friday, June 29.
