Since Paul Buresh started working in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communications in the summer of 1994, he has saved the unit thousands of dollars. He has built ten inexpensive portable battery packs, many of which are still in use after three years. Previously, the department had to purchase these expensive battery packs, which would last only about six months. Paul also devised a $1,000 display system that allows an instructor to demonstrate software techniques to all students in the unit's computer laboratory simultaneously. This system includes LCD panels and overhead projectors, and its estimated retail value is $3,500. Although he did not have experience in such endeavors, Paul quickly and professionally installed the unit's new video switcher, FM transmitter, character generator, digital audio editing station, digital video post production system and studio cameras by himself, thereby saving the department thousands in engineering fees. He also built an electronic timing system that automatically switches from NETV Educable programming feeds to the KLPR-TV Master Control and to nearly all the KLPR-FM on-air booths.
Paul Buresh is a handyman, carpenter, electrician, electronics engineer, painter and carpet layer. He is diligent, resourceful and personable. He has never complained of the magnitude of work to be performed, its complexity or the lack of available funds. Paul seems to enjoy the challenges associated with each new project.
The department relies heavily on its laboratories for the delivery of instruction. Paul spends a great deal of time each summer in the labs to ensure they are in tip-top condition when faculty and students return. He understands that student satisfaction is critical to departmental success. Therefore, he makes significant contributions in this regard by ensuring that labs are functional, attractive, and user-friendly. Because of the many hours Paul spends orienting new faculty to the operation of equipment in the labs, all faculty members are capable of providing quality instruction to students. He also assists students by answering questions, making quick repairs and checking out equipment. In the spring of 1997, Mr. Buresh mentored a student who was interested in learning about electronics. He provided guidance and spent a great deal of time giving the student informal instruction. This is but one example of Paul's keen understanding of the university's need to treat students as clients.
Because Paul has proven to be an expert technician, a mentor for students, a trusted member of the UNK staff, a recruiter and a handyman, the University of Nebraska at Kearney is pleased to name him its Employee of the Month for November 1997.