Monica J. Lury, New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service Northern District Office administrative assistant, has been named the 2022 Stephen W. and Robert E. Roberts Memorial Staff Award recipient.
This year, the annual cash award is presented to a non-exempt employee who provides dedicated, outstanding service to the university. Lury will be honored at a ceremony from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29 in Corbett Center Student Union, Doña Ana Room. Refreshments will be provided.
A 24-year NMSU employee, Lury was surprised to receive the distinction.
“I was speechless at first and then it was nice to know that someone thought enough of me to have me honored with the award,” Lury said.
“Monica is an exemplary employee,” said Christina Turner, Extension Northern District department head. “She has proven herself self-sufficient and identifies the best way to keep the Northern District running smoothly. Monica keeps up-to-date on all NMSU processes and ensures that all other administrative assistants throughout the district are well informed and properly equipped to do their jobs. She routinely goes above and beyond to support the offices throughout the Northern District.”
Lury has assisted the past five district department heads and is often the lead admin assistant in county offices when they are without their own administrative assistant. She has handled all administrative functions for several county offices at a time and provides support to on-board and train new employees.
“My favorite aspect of my job is helping people, whether it’s my co-workers or the youth of New Mexico,” Lury said. “I enjoy getting to know them, so that I know where I can help be beneficial in their lives.”
“Monica is a creative thinker,” Turner said. “When our faculty bring an opportunity to the department head, she always finds a way to make it happen. She has assisted with the navigation of very complex grants, partnerships and innovative projects, many of which have never been encountered.”
Also nominated for the award were Elizabeth Silva, Matthew Martinez, Mary Ortaleza, Franklin Jason Thomas, Autumn Martinez and Melissa Burrola.
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CUTLINE: Monica J. Lury, New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service Northern District Office administrative assistant, has been named the 2022 Stephen W. and Robert E. Roberts Memorial Staff Award recipient. (NMSU photo by Darren Phillips)