University News

Klingler Named COAP Employee of the Year

May 12, 2021

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL -- Samantha Klingler, director of the Student Development and Success Center at Western Illinois University, has been named the WIU 2021 Employee of the Year by the Council of Administrative Personnel (COAP).

The annual award recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of a COAP member who has far exceeded their duties.

"Samantha has been a positive role model for their staff and WIU as a whole. Her leadership skills have afforded their unit the opportunity to not only grow, but thrive beyond expectations. The resilience, grit and determination Samantha modeled during the various restructures has been admirable and inspiring to all staff within the department," a nominator noted. "Samantha unwaveringly led their team through transition, reorganization, a pandemic and a school shooting."

A second nominator noted, "Samantha was selected to chair our Safety Committee that consisted of a variety of individuals from campus to research, develop and recommend safety protocols for the COVID-19 response team to implement on campus. Samantha and the team worked diligently to provide the response team with thorough and effective information that greatly aided in Western's efforts."

Klingler has served in her role as director of the Student Development and Success Center since June 2019. Previously, she served as a program director/health education specialist at Beu Health Center since August 2017. She joined the Beu Health Center in 2009 as a medical technologist. Before joining WIU, Klingler was employed at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.

Klingler received her master's and bachelor's degrees from WIU.
"We're extremely lucky to have the dedication, skill and drive Samantha brings to our students and entire WIU community," COAP President Justin Schuch added.

Learn more about the Council of Administrative Personnel at wiu.edu/coap.

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