Multicultural Springfest celebrates diversity and dedication of Stanford staff

The 20th Annual Multicultural Springfest will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 25 in Frost Amphitheater. The event includes the fourth annual Celebrating Staff Careers Ceremony.

At the Multicultural Springfest on Thursday at Frost Amphitheater, Stanford will celebrate the diversity and dedication of its staff with a ceremony honoring people with impressive service milestones, as well as a lunch, live entertainment and art exhibits.

Springfest

Stanford employees with many years of service are recognized each year at the annual Springfest. This year’s event is Thursday, May 25. (Image credit: L.A. Cicero)

Provost Persis Drell is scheduled to preside over this year’s “Celebrating Staff Careers” ceremony, which will kick off the event at 11 a.m.

This year, 109 Stanford staff members are marking their 30th, 35th, 40th, 45th and 50th years on the Farm. Nearly six dozen of the honorees are expected to attend and will sit at tables at the front of the grassy amphitheater. During the recognition ceremony, individual honorees will cross the stage as their names are called to shake hands with Provost Drell.

Following the ceremony, which is expected to last about an hour, the celebration continues with lunch, music and entertainment. Complimentary T-shirts and caps will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Words of wisdom from honorees

Cardinal at Work has produced profiles of many of the 2017 honorees, and has posted them on its website. In addition to asking honorees what they have enjoyed most during their time at Stanford, their favorite places on campus and their proudest accomplishments, they were asked: What piece of guidance or advice would you give to a new hire at Stanford?

Here is a sampling of the honorees’ sage advice:

Dick Gould, director of tennis in the Department of Athletics, Physical Education & Recreation (50th anniversary): “Dream big and then work like crazy to bring dreams to fruition. Enjoy the vitality of your students and peers, and be a steward to transfer your excitement of what you do every day to others.”

Roger Cottrell, manager of SLAC Networks and Telecom at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (50th anniversary): “Take advantage of the numerous opportunities offered at Stanford – Continuing Studies, cultural and athletic events, the beauty of this campus and the wealth of knowledge in this community. And, get involved! There are many opportunities to contribute, collaborate, grow and make a difference!”

Laura Selznick, academic advising director in Undergraduate Advising and Research  (45th anniversary): “Get to know people in departments and programs outside your own work area. A strong colleague network will make your job more effective and more enjoyable.”

Connie Chin, manager of East Asian Languages and Cultures in the School of Humanities & Sciences (40th anniversary):  “Follow your curiosity. Take advantage of the many academic and artistic events that are free at Stanford.”

Mitchell Bousson, facilities services manager in Land, Buildings & Real Estate, (35th anniversary): “I know Stanford as a place that recognizes and appreciates problem solvers. Challenge yourself to contribute wherever you can!”

Abera Metaferia, financial aid counselor at Stanford Medicine (30th anniversary): “Treat students, colleagues and friends as you want to be treated. Listen carefully at what they want to say. Always try to be creative to help within your power and authority. Know that you are there for students. Respect, trust and you will get back the same you invest, and maybe more. Be sensitive to their request, even if you do not have the authority to fulfill. Be a team player with your colleagues.”