The Civil Service Council will feature a civil service employee at Illinois State University each month to highlight an exceptional colleague and the outstanding work being done on campus! This month get a chance to learn about and applaud Angell Howard from the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs.
What is your position on campus and how long have you been with the University?
Associate Director of Professional Development and Staff Recognition for the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. I have been at ISU for 13 years as a student and 11 years as full-time staff.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
On the professional development side of my job, I would have to say that I get to create fulfilling opportunities for people to participate in that will help them grow personally and professionally. I love collaborating and asking people what they want and then making it happen. One of my favorite things is to help those who have never presented before have their moment. On the recognition side of my job, I love making people feel special. There is nothing like being “seen” for your work and effort, so I take every award very seriously and want to make each moment memorable.
What are your hobbies or favorite past-time?
Until I finish this final degree, I sadly do not have any real hobbies. My favorite pastime is lying on the couch with my family watching movies or trying to catch up on the 20 shows I have recorded on the DVR. I typically fall asleep before the end of every show, but my family continues to love me anyway!
What else would you like others to know about you or your time at ISU?
I run a business called Necessary Change Consulting LLC. My business undergirds organizations, businesses, and leaders to create cultural and structural shifts through the critical examination of policies, practices, and procedures. I have spent the last ten years creating and facilitating diversity, equity, and inclusion trainings, challenging professionals to influence change within their organization utilizing an antiracist lens. My passion for this was birthed from my experiences as a student here at ISU.
More about Angell from Danielle Miller-Schuster, Assistant Vice President with the Division of Student Affairs:
The importance of professional development and staff recognition is paramount to creating a culture of continuous learning and care. Angell is a strong contributor to the division’s success in providing in-person and virtual programming throughout the year. She recognizes the importance of capturing the interests and involvement of participants and is skilled at creating a sense of belonging. Angell is a connector. She connects participants to content/knowledge, individuals to resources, individuals to individuals, and individuals to inspiration.
