University of Nebraska Kearney

Bev Mathiesen began her career at Kearney State College in September of 1972.   She is described by her supervisors and colleagues as having a complete commitment to students and the people who work in the University community. She wants them all to be successful and productive.  She remains calm and professional at all times and is able to communicate effectively with faculty, staff students and outside constituents.  Her current supervisor noted that he often receives comments on how professional and caring she is in handling problems.  It is the human touch of customer service that she has mastered.  She is noted for being patient and unflappable, characteristics that are particularly appreciated in times of stress.

Today’s first recipient held her first position with the campus along with her husband as “dorm parents”.  Her love and concern for students has never stopped.  Other positions she has held are department secretary for the Housing Office and Mathematics Department, secretary to the Dean of Natural & Social Sciences and Administrative Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs & Provost. She currently serves as Executive Associate to the Chancellor.  When she served as secretary to the Dean, he referred to her as the “Dean” of the support staff.  She was a mentor to the staff.  She is also highly proficient in the use of a stop watch.

For her dedication to students and the university community,  Bev Mathiesen is the recipient of the 2007 TIAA/CREF Staff Award for Excellence.  Bev will receive a plaque and a $1,000 check from TIAA/CREF.

Janet Beerbohm is also a wonderful representative of a group of long-term UNK employees whose work ethic, experience and talents serve as a positive and encouraging role model to other members of the university community.  Her reputation as a dedicated professional is evidenced in the letters submitted to support her nomination.  In one she is described as “…detail oriented in her daily work and always ready to learn new tasks.”  Another colleague writes, “She is truly a team player who is willing to provide assistance whenever and wherever needed.”   This award recipient began her career at UNK (then Kearney State College) in June of 1978 as a Duplicating Machine Operator.  In 1981 she transferred to the Finance Office and over the succeeding years, her continued outstanding service was rewarded with promotions from Accounting Clerk I to her current role as Office Associate.  One of her most unenviable duties is managing “past due” student accounts.  But, as she done with her other assignments, she has mastered a balance between sensitivity to each student’s situation and the best interests of UNK.  Her calm nature, ready smile and extensive knowledge of the campus make her ideally suited to the work that she does.

Away from her desk, today’s award recipient is a “born volunteer” – someone who “…gives without expecting anything in return.”  She serves on Staff Senate, the Employee Recognition Committee, and the Office Service Dependant Scholarship Committee.  She is an active leader in her church family and does volunteer work for the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department.  And she loves the Lopers!  She is someone that the Division of Athletics counts on for help with special events.  They refer to her as a “can-do person and a valuable campus resource.”

For her dedication to students, colleagues, the university and the Kearney community, Janet Beerbohm is the recipient of the 2007 TIAA/CREF Staff Award for Excellence.  Jan will receive a plaque and a $1,000 check from TIAA/CREF.