ESU honors University Service Citation award winners

Feb. 23, 2007

The four people honored with the 2007 University Service Citation award from Emporia State University at a dinner Friday night all had one remarkable trait in common.

Art and Sue Bloomer, Marshall Havenhill and Janet Schalansky – on a night where the university was thanking them for unique and significant service – each stood and thanked ESU for the opportunity to serve.

ESU President Michael Lane said the recipients embraced the concept of “servant leadership. “The servant leader places the needs of the institution above their own needs, and I think that’s something these individuals have embodied,” he said.

The Bloomers recognized the role ESU played in launching Art’s military and professional career. As they have said, “Our lives were really to serve the people,” said Paula Sauder when introducing the Bloomers.

After Art retired, they made a decision. “It’s time for me to give something back,” Art said. Sue added: “We are proud to be a part of Emporia State. Thank you all for recognizing us tonight.”

Dr. Marshall Havenhill’s work as the ESU team physician is just one instance of his service. Athletic trainer John Baxter introduced Havenhill, saying he “quietly and without fanfare, provided ESU with excellent services, never asking for anything other than to provide his time, talent and resources to ESU.”

Thanking his wife and colleagues, Havenhill was also grateful for his long affiliation with ESU. “I thank you, all of you, for allowing me to be a part of Emporia State University,” he said.

Former state senator Lana Oleen introduced her friend Janet Schalansky, who rose to become secretary of the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services. “She has always been a can-do girl,” Oleen said. “We love you dearly. You not only give to humanity, but you give to us as well.”

As an ESU student, Schalansky took an internship at SRS. “What I learned here as a student really influenced my career,” she said. “I appreciate the opportunity to do what I’ve done. If it’s made a difference, that’s great.”

An attitude like that, seen in each of this year’s winners, certainly explains why they deserve the honor.

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Last Updated May 1, 2007