Elaine Angielski

President's Service Award - Spring 1999

Ms. Angielski has served the WCVM and the University for 35 years. She has filled the role of Dean's Secretary for every dean in the College's history, and continues to serve the College as Administrative Officer, Admissions and General Administration. One professor says, "She has been the co-pilot of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine since its inception. The College as it is today is, in significant measures, the work of her hands."

Elaine's commitment to excellence has inspired admiration among those who know her. Co-workers speak of her legendary dedication to her work, her attention to detail and perseverance until a job is completed. At the WCVM, Admissions is a complex job that requires reviewing transcripts, dealing with multiple course transfer equivalencies, checking on applicants' residency status, ensuring accuracy of all the data entered into the computer, arranging interviews for students from the four Western provinces, and the list goes on. She fulfills these responsibilities with equanimity.

Her commitment to students is also legendary. Elaine found it was easier to reach potential veterinary students directly by telephone if she called on weekends when they were more likely to be at home. Many a spring weekend has been spent by Ms. Angielski as she patiently telephones students in an attempt to arrange admission interviews. She also devotes endless hours to counseling applicants who have not been successful in their efforts to gain admission.

Although it is not part of her responsibility, Elaine makes sure that birthdays and other occasions are recognized in the Dean's Office. Her thoughtfulness extends to making the centerpieces for the College's awards banquet, to give the tables that extra-special touch.

Elaine's honesty and integrity have inspired the respect of all who know her. Whether working with a new employee, a new department head, or a new Dean, Elaine surreptitiously facilitates their integration into the institution. She has saved many people countless times from falling on their faces, or some other part of their anatomy!

Elaine's caring and compassion have inspired the love of her co-workers and students. She is regularly singled out by students for special recognition before their graduation. She has been chosen by the students as Honorary President of the Western College Veterinary Students Association, and was the first recipient of the WCVM Distinguished Employee Award in 1997.

In the words of George Eliot, "Blessed is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another." And blessed are the students, staff, faculty and administration of the WCVM, and the University of Saskatchewan, for the influence of Elaine Angielski.

Elaine Angielski is a most worthy recipient and has set an example of excellence in her work that we might all hope to emulate.