Lara Bailey and Susan Thomas receive SILS Staff Excellence Awards

The University of North Carolina's School of Information and Library Science presented staffers Lara Bailey and Susan Thomas with 2007 SILS Staff Excellence Awards.

The award recognizes staff members who demonstrate excellence, commitment, teamwork and outstanding service to SILS. Winners receive a framed certificate, three extra days of paid leave and $500.

Bailey, who started at SILS in 2003, is currently the School's student services manager. She handles many tasks necessary to keep SILS running academically, including planning class schedules, coordinating the admissions process and helping students navigate University processes. Bailey also coordinates the School Winter and Spring commencements.

Thomas is the SILS administrative manager and oversees the business side of SILS. She manages the School's day-to-day finances and coordinates with other UNC financial offices. Thomas has been with SILS since 1994.

"Susan and Lara, both as long time staff members at SILS, have provided constancy in a world of constant change," said Paul Solomon, SILS professor and senior associate dean. "They are the glue that holds SILS administrative operations together. The talents of both have been recognized through job advancement: Susan started as the dean's administrative assistant and Lara advanced through several positions to become student services manager. It is fitting that their continued outstanding service has been recognized through the SILS Staff Excellence Award."

Bailey and Thomas received their awards at a staff appreciation ceremony held April 30 in Manning Hall.