Loyola University Chicago

University Staff Council

August 2014

LaVerne Powell

Title/s:  Grounds Service Worker

Email: vpowell23@yahoo.com

About

Department/School/Division: Facilities/Grounds Department
Campus: Lake Shore Campus
Years at Loyola: 2 (Full-Time)

What is your favorite thing about working at Loyola?
I love meeting and interacting with people. You never know how many people share some of the same interests as you, or what you can learn from someone just by striking up a friendly conversation.

What is your most memorable achievement as a Loyola employee?
My most memorable achievement as a Loyola employee is when I was driving around campus and there was a tour group going into the Information Commons. I saw a piece of paper on the ground and I stopped to pick it up, and a parent stopped me and told me that picking up that piece of paper made me an important person on campus. It just felt good that someone appreciates the little things that you do without looking for a reward.

What does Loyola's mission mean to you?
To me, humanity is key. Not only should we do what we are asked to, but we should do what needs to be done without expecting some sort of recognition. We should help make our students feel good about attending their university.

What motivates you to succeed each and every day?
My motivation comes from knowing that people appreciate a beautiful campus. Since I am the only female grounds worker, I am motivated by the fact that so many people think so highly of me for doing so well at such a physical job.

Tell us how you show your Rambler pride.
I show my Rambler Pride by posting pictures on Facebook of events that I may work at and wearing my Rambler gear when I am off work and off campus.

Tell us something most people at Loyola would be surprised to know about you.
One thing most people at Loyola would be surprised to know about me is that I am a singer. I sing with a community choir by the name of One 4 Christ, as well as my church choir at Lively Stone Apostolic Church of God.