The PROPS program includes a monthly profile of an A-State staff member that works every day behind the scenes to improve Arkansas State University… because EVERY Red Wolf Counts!
Staff members are selected from a pool of candidates that is created from the PROPS nomination form.
Vickie Gilmer
Vickie Gilmer was nominated by coworker LaVonda Evans for P.R.O.P.S. recognition. LaVonda said “Vickie is an extremely helpful co-worker who goes above and beyond to help where she can. Whether she is working with her interim chair, helping work-study students, or admins like myself, she is always happy to help. She has scheduled training sessions for admins in CLAC, sought out our opinions, and helped develop a wonderful working rapport with many in our field.”
P.R.O.P.S subcommittee members Madelyn Carson, LaVonda Evans, Cathy Naylor, and Greg Umhoefer spoke with Vickie recently to learn more about her and her experience at A-State.
How would you describe yourself in one sentence?
Extremely caring but kind of tenacious about things. I like to put a lot of care into what I do and into the people I’m involved with. I like to know how things work. In my mind, I have to know how something works, and then I’m pretty much good to go.
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Oh, that easy, I’ve always wanted to go to Australia. I would love to see the scenery, of course they have beaches, and I love beach vacations. Definitely one of those places on my bucket list.
What makes a good staff member?
I would say, you definitely have to try to stay positive. You have to learn how to roll with the punches, it’s not always black and white. Be as patient as possible and don’t give up. Try to get through what you’re doing each day and start fresh tomorrow.
What’s one thing you wish you could teach everyone about your roll on campus?
I think the biggest thing here, which might sound kind of odd, I wish it was easier to explain to everyone how long some processes can take. When folks come in, we definitely want to help them and get it done quickly, but as we know there are processes and approvals that need to take place.
What is your favorite hobby?
It’s not really a hobby, but I like to foster dogs, which my husband doesn’t care for much because I foster them and then tend to want to adopt them. So, I have five dogs right now. I like to take them in and help them because they help my soul.
What’s your most recent binge show?
Right now, I am rewatching That ‘70s Show with my teenage daughter because she’s never watched it. We go back and watch different things together. It wasn’t too long ago we did the Gilmore Girls. I enjoy getting to watch her watch the shows.
What is one piece of advice that a parent or caregiver has given you that has stuck with you?
Always remember that you don’t really know what is going on in someone else's life, so be patient and understanding. Somebody might speak to you in a certain tone or be in a mood, it could just be that day so try to let it fall off your back. It can be difficult sometimes, but try to stay as positive and patient as possible. It helps you, and definitely helps the other person.
What is your favorite thing about A-State?
That would definitely be all the individuals I’ve met. Huge community- other employees, folks in our building. I feel like so many of them are like family. My students, I adore my student workers. They’re my kids. Just love the whole community so much.
