University News

Butcher and McCormick Honored by Federal Association for COVID-19 Work

October 9, 2020

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MACOMB, IL – Two members of Western Illinois University's Housing staff have been honored at the national level for their work to make the University's campus safer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Assistant Director of Residence Life Jessica Butcher and Assistant Director of Residential Administration Bridget McCormick were honored by the Heroes Program of the Association of College and University Housing Officers-International (ACUHO-I). The program recognizes the leadership of campus professionals during times of significant challenge.

Butcher and McCormick were nominated for the award by WIU Associate Vice President for Student Services John "JB" Biernbaum. They were two of 27 campus professionals honored from across the nation.

Butcher said the award represents the many people at Western working behind the scenes to ensure the comfort and safety of students who are in isolation or quarantine.

"While it is nice to be recognized for our efforts, we just do what we need to do for our students; whatever it takes," she said. "We are making a difference in regard to our numbers and helping control the spread of COVID. We want our students to have a positive overall WIU experience and we try to be there for them when they need us most."

McCormick agreed, adding that it's an honor to be recognized this way.

"In reality, there are many people across the University that are pitching in and going above and beyond to accommodate students during this time and ensure their safety," she said. "I am thankful WIU's campus is open and am happy to be a part of the team that makes it possible to keep the campus open."

During the pandemic, Butcher has revamped training for complex directors, assistant complex directors and resident assistants for the fall semester. She is also often in a PPE suit to do intake and transportation for those going into quarantine and isolation.

McCormick was tasked with readjusting hundreds of room assignments for the fall semester as students chose where to take their classes; whether online or in person. She is also doing COVID case management and room assignments for students who test positive.

Both Butcher and McCormick are part of the University's "All Hands on Deck" team to deal with COVID-19.

Biernbaum said Butcher and McCormick have put in so much effort over the last several months to help make the campus safe and operational for students, staff and faculty.

"It is very cool to see these two recognized on the national level for the ACUHO-I Heroes program," he said. "I am proud to be on their team and love that they are representing Western Illinois University and being recognized at the highest level of their profession."

For more information on WIU's COVID-19 response, visit bit.ly/2CQRu3p.



Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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