What's the best thing about working at East Tennessee State University?  Our people—students, faculty and staff!  Our quality reputation!  Our beautiful campus!  Our emphasis on caring for the needs of every member of the ETSU family!  ETSU is a student-centered community of learning that employs more than 2,000 faculty and staff.  Our personnel are a constant source of enthusiastic service that makes us a leader in regional universities. 

Featured Employee

Judy Branson

The Department of Communication’s Executive Aide, Judy Branson, is a remarkable person.  Judy meets her responsibilities with grace, energy, and humor.

Last year Judy Branson performed above and beyond the call of duty, coming in early and leaving late five days a week - and then coming in on Saturdays to finish up the mountain of work - all the while smiling and presenting a pleasant first impression to all who came into the departmental office. AND THEN TBR CHANGED CORE requirements.  To cover the new CORE requirement, the department had to add faculty.  It grew by SEVEN new faculty and 40% more student credit hours . . . with the same number of administrative support personnel.  Judy continued to smile, continued to come in early and leave late; but most importantly, she continued to get the job done.

Judy was also instrumental in an assistant professor’s decision to accept a position at ETSU.  While the assistant professor was considering an offer at ETSU, Judy coordinated her visit to the campus, arranging accommodations, travel plans, and reimbursements in a timely manner.  After the assistant professor was hired, Judy assisted in her transition to ETSU by coordinating a house-hunt, overseeing the purchasing of necessary supplies and equipment, and Judy was ready with all the information necessary for the assistant professor to meet her own obligations.  The assistant professor readily states that one of the reasons she accepted her position at ETSU was because she knew Judy was here. 

Judy continually demonstrates her ability to bring a diverse department closer together.  For example, while meeting her daily responsibilities, she -- amazingly -- never forgets a birthday, wedding, or anniversary.  Before a special occasion, she quietly collects signatures on cards or donations for flowers.  Sadly, the department has faced several tragedies, but Judy quickly notifies all parties and then discreetly organizes the department’s response.  Efforts such as these define an organization by creating a warm environment.

Judy Branson is definitely a model for all who work for the university, and ETSU is appreciative to have her as an employee.

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