University News
Bierman Named COAP Employee of the Year
June 10, 2009
MACOMB, IL – Matt Bierman, director of residential facilities at Western Illinois University, has been named the 2009 Employee of the Year by the Council of Administrative Personnel (COAP) for his extraordinary leadership of Western's housing division.
The annual award, presented by COAP in conjunction with the University president, recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of a COAP member who has far exceeded his or her duties.
"Matt does his job as well as many, many extra duties outside his normal job function – and he does them all very well," said Bierman's nominator John "JB" Biernbaum. "I work with Matt day in and day out, and almost take for granted his work ethic and contribution to our department, division, University and community."
In his position, Bierman is responsible for organizing and monitoring a $40 million budget, organizing room and board rates, monitoring debt service and food service. He also oversees all facilities-related issues for University Housing and Dining Services.
"Matt has led numerous major projects affecting housing and the University in the past year. These projects will have a lasting impact on our campus for years to come," Biernbaum added. "He has worked diligently with Disability Support Services to acclimate our students with disabilities in the halls, and he has also worked to promote WIU through participating in numerous Discover Western events. Words cannot accurately depict the value of Matt's daily contributions. He doesn't just participate. He does things with a high degree of professionalism and the results are outstanding."
Bierman began his housing career at Western in 1999 as Bayliss-Henninger halls complex director and was named to his current position in 2008.
He is a college student personnel instructor; and he is a member of the Environmental Sustainability Committee, the Mobile Computing Task Force and the Master Plan Implementation Team. He is also the president of GLACUHO (Great Lakes Association of College and University Housing Officers) and recently received the GLACUHO Service Award for his contributions to the organization. Bierman serves on the Western Illinois Credit Union Board and is a member of the Macomb Balloon Rally Committee.
"The COAP Executive Council is pleased to honor Matt Bierman for his commitment and dedication to Western Illinois University," said Schuyler Meixner, COAP president.
Bierman was presented with a plaque and received a 2009-2010 Faculty/Staff parking permit, a Donald S. Spencer Student Recreation Center membership, Western Illinois athletics season tickets, Bureau of Cultural Affairs season tickets and a $50 University Bookstore gift certificate.
Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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