March Employee of the Month Announcement

Congratulations to Melinda Wood

Melinda graduated with honors from the Institute of Technology in May of 2000. Despite numerous obstacles, she had perfect attendance. It is no wonder that she was immediately hired as an administrative assistant, and later moved up to the position of Registrar. She served as both Registrar and Student Success Leader until February 2004, when she became the Director of Student Services.

Melinda is passionate about what she does. She cares deeply about our students, and works hard to help them overcome the roadblocks to their success. She is a driver: leading blood drives, food drives, and clothing drives that benefit not only our students but the community as well. She has gathered an abundance of helpful resources and made them available for our students. She has a tender heart that makes her a compassionate friend to our students, and she is tough enough to weather the daily challenges of dealing with all of our students’ “stuff.”

Melinda loves the “fun” activities that she coordinates for our students: student appreciation days, weekly trivia challenges, and holiday celebrations. Over the years, she has played a key leadership role in such annual events as the March of Dimes Mudd Volleyball Tournament and Breast Cancer Awareness Day.

Melinda’s drive, passion and energy fuels the success in IOT’s Student Services Department and is just one reason why she is the winner of this month’s Employee of the Month award.



Jim Haga, President and CEO

Employee Recognition Program

The BrightStar Employee Recognition Programs highlight the achievements of all employees. The program recognizes valued employees - employees who were on the job day in and day out, adding the extra effort that helps the Institute of Technology provide the needed services for our students and employees. We also recognize employees as individuals or as groups as they go about their daily responsibilities in an outstanding manner. In addition to the Employee of the Month award, we will issue quarterly awards for excellence in Education, Admissions, Financial Services and Placement. Each recipient will receive a $50 gift certificate and a plaque honoring their accomplishment. The program’s goal is the recognition of excellence wherever it occurs. We must pat our fellow employee on the back and nominate those individuals who have stood out in their job performance. Help us all by recognizing the best within our company. Excellence in what we do, Passion for what we do and Profitability is our way of life. Direct your nominations to me at jhaga@brightstareducation.com