HIU Honors Employees at Annual Roseann Lezak Staff Appreciation Luncheon

Hartford International University for Religion and Peace (HIU) recognized the important role of its employees at the annual Roseann Lezak Staff Appreciation Luncheon.

President Sherry L. Turner began the event by thanking employees for their commitment to the university. Thinking about her year as president, Turner said she has seen how hard the employees work and how much they care about HIU.

“Often, colleges and universities are known by their reputation and their accomplishments. We certainly have a wonderful reputation, and there are many things we have to be proud of. But none of that is possible without the work you do," Turner said.

"Every day, you bring your expertise, your time, your resources, your gifts, and we are a much better institution because of that."

Turner also thanked the people who work behind the scenes, saying that while some work is very visible, most of the work that makes the university succeed happens quietly every day.

The luncheon is named after Roseann Lezak, a long-time member of the HIU community who helped start the tradition of honoring employees.

Lezak reflected on her years at HIU and said how much she appreciated the community and the relationships she formed over the years.

"Thank you for truly being there. Thank you for keeping me involved." Lezak said. "I love you all."

The luncheon also included a thank you to Black Ministries Program (BMP) Coordinator Althea Walker, who was honored for 30 years of work with HIU.

Bishop Benjamin Watts, Black Ministries Program Director, talked about Althea's time at HIU, calling her work more than a job, a kind of service. He pointed out her dedication to the university, her consistency, and her kindness to students.

Walker has helped many students feel welcome and connected to the university through her work with the BMP. Watts noted that she has supported students as they studied theology and prepared for their work in ministry.

"She has treated it as service," Watts said. "Each student she has made them feel they belong."

Walker talked about her 30 years with the university, sharing memories about the many people who have helped her over the years. She remembered working on Saturdays, helping students and using university resources to support their service work.

Most of all, she talked about the relationships she made through HIU. One person she remembered most was her colleague Marie, whom she called "a sister from another mother."

"I love what I do, " Walker said. "That's why I stay."

In conversations, staff consistently express the same sentiment as Walker. They describe their work as meaningful and the HIU community as one that actively fosters well-being. This shared sense of purpose cultivates a positive mindset, which is ultimately reflected in the quality of their work.

Once again, thank you to everyone who makes this community special.