Assistant Vice Provost Janette Brown was named a winner of the 2019 USC President’s Staff Achievement Award. She was recognized during the 2019 Staff Recognition Luncheon this past month.Employee Gateway produced a video about Dr. Brown, which you can view here or above.
Read Dr. Brown’s statement regarding the award below.
Dear Colleagues,
Thank you to so many of you who wrote letters for me and surprised me with the recent President’s Award. I am humbled, honored, and touched by your support. Co-Presidential awardee, Aaron Drake and I were lucky to be seated with President Wanda Austin and her husband, the “first man” Wade Austin Jr at the April 4th Staff Recognition Luncheon. For those interested in the day, and the beautiful video at the very end provided by USC Employee Gateway, please see this link: https://employees.usc.edu/janette-brown/
The amended speech given that day:
“I am humbled and honored to receive this award especially because so many of you could be standing up here instead of me. Countless times, I have witnessed the caring, dedication, and great service by the staff here at USC. I would like to express my sincere gratitude and thanks for those who wrote nomination letters and who supported me for many years. Katie and Debbie a special thank you!
Like many of you, my children and I have degrees from USC.My professors, classmates, and work supervisors were so supportive during the 8 years it took to complete my doctorate while working full time. For me and for our whole family, the education and opportunities provided by USC were invaluable.
I love working at USC. While my first 10 years at the Career Center were spent helping students find their purpose and passion, the last 14 years at the Emeriti Center have been spent in awe of experienced retirees who are living their purpose and passion. USC is a remarkable place. The Trojan Family IS alive and it is the people who make USC so special.
This award is a result of supportive people who have been great examples, advisors, and work colleagues. They opened doors for me. If not for them, I would not have participated in
- the USC Coaching Certification Program,
- engaged with the USC Age Friendly University Network,
- or attended the Summer Institute for Women in Higher Education Administration managed by WIM, USC’s Women in Management organization.
These are just a few of many experiences that provided new learning, valuable working relationships, and school partnerships.
This award surprised me because it seems few know about the Emeriti Center. The Center is not just for retired staff and faculty;
our intergenerational resources and events are for all ages and stages. We connect with USC schools and departments for special events open to all students, staff, faculty, alumni and the community. We have small grants for students who host intergenerational, interdisciplinary, and multicultural events. We support first generation USC scholars and help local high school students in the neighborhood with personal essays.
Do you know about the Emeriti Center’s Gold Card or that you can join and enjoy Staff Retirement Association events at any age?
We arethe intergenerational bridge across the employee lifespan. There are great people to work with at the Emeriti Center. We have an inclusive culture that appreciates diverse perspectives and values each person’s contribution. We know that we can be part of the Trojan family – for LIFE… and there IS life after retirement. Ask any of our Emeriti Center community – they will be happy to tell you.
Many retirees do not consider themselves retired; they continue to give back in many ways, unselfishly sharing their wisdom, knowledge and experience. USC retirees are such a valuable resource for the university.
Two years ago, I moved within walking distance of USC. I thoroughly enjoy different generations living together and supporting one another. My neighbors – mostly USC Faculty, Staff, students, and their families – are a wonderfully diverse mix of cultures and disciplines. It proves even more that USC is an amazing place, and the Trojan Family spirit makes it that way.
I am so grateful for this award, for your support, and to be a part of USC. I know that we will truly be – colleagues for life. Thank You!
— Janette Brown
Assistant Vice Provost, Emeriti Center