Laurie Pickerill, Senior Graduate Admissions Specialist for The Graduate College, was selected as the August 2022 Employee of the Month.
Laurie oversees the graduate admissions process for the College of Health Professions. Over 7,000 graduate applications are submitted each year, yet Laurie and her team ensure that each one is carefully and equitably reviewed for consideration. Through caring customer service, Laurie dedicates time to answer questions prospective applicants have. She routinely reaches out to individuals whose applications are incomplete or incorrect, giving them the chance to fix their errors. Laurie and her team operate with the mindset that each applicant is a unique individual with a unique background and circumstances.
Not only does Laurie assist prospective graduate students, but she also goes out of her way to lend a helping hand amongst her colleagues in the Graduate College whenever needed. She routinely provides support and guidance for graduate advisors, admissions committees, and department heads to make sure that seats are filled by qualified students each application cycle.
Laurie understands that maintaining a collaborative and positive workplace culture is a key factor in setting her team up for success. In the words of one of her direct reports, Laurie is an example of how “leaders don’t just manage outputs, they foster culture”. From getting her “hands dirty” alongside her team, to organizing group wellness activities, and bringing homemade snacks to the office, she is dedicated to showing her team that she truly supports their wellbeing on a daily basis.
Laurie plays an integral part in the growth of Texas State by helping admit diverse and talented graduate students each semester. Her compassionate leadership and dedication to excellence has a lasting impact on the entire Texas State community.
Thank you, Laurie, for your dedication and hard work. Congratulations on being recognized as the August 2022 Employee of the Month!