Susanne Thibodeau
Administrative Associate
School of Marine Sciences

As a Clerk Typist in the Fogler Library 35 years ago, Susanne quickly demonstrated an eagerness to learn, work hard, and do a great job. Sue’s exemplary work ethic quickly earned her promotions and glowing recognition from her supervisors in the Library, School of Engineering Technology, College of Education & Human Development and now the School of Marine Sciences. Sue is an outstanding individual. Her history and knowledge of the campus make her an invaluable resource when it comes to making contacts with other offices. Sue seems to know everyone on campus, and more importantly, they think highly of her.

Sue’s interaction with students is first rate. Sue is known – and appreciated – in the Marine Science Offices by every single student. They all know they can count on her to help. She is a great resource for students who are looking for answers to questions such as, “Can you help me get into this class?” or “How do I sign up for graduation?” Also, Sue is able to keep track of details and deadlines that her supervisors seem unable to retain. When deadlines get tight, she knows exactly who to call to break the logjam.

Sue manages to keep approximately 35 faculty members happy throughout the year and this is no small feat. She handles things as sensitive as promotion and tenure documentation, coordinating all undergraduate and graduate student files, making sure faculty complete their annual reports, easily learning new technologies such as the Polycom videoconferencing system, updating the school’s website – and the list goes on. Her colleagues always admire her can do attitude and her success.

Sue’s best quality is who she is as a person. She is a wonderful person to have in the main office of the School of Marine Sciences. She will always help a student or a faculty member, and she is a pleasure to be around. In addition, she gives back to the community, whether it is donating blood or volunteering for Hospice. Sue is someone who leads by example and we are lucky to have her as a member of the University of Maine community!

Thank you, Susanne for your 35 years of dedicated service to the University of Maine!