Friar lauded for 'warmth, openness'

Mary Friar, an office assistant with Prevention and Wellness Services, is the latest to be recognized in the Western Way program for her excellent commitment to Western Washington University.

"Mary welcomes everyone with warmth, openness and a smile, regardless how hectic her day," said Elva Munro, director of Prevention and Wellness Services. "We are blessed with her kindness, stability, and positive approach to every day. Her shines in facilitating smooth and effective working relationships. She exemplifies the outlook of 'sharing the work makes the load lighter'. Her encouragement and gentle manner has resulted in the blossoming of many students from shy new student into enthusiastic, confident, amazing employees. She is collaborative, and ready to offer assistance if it will help our work run more smoothly. She always puts what is best for the department first."

Do you work with an outstanding colleague at Western Washington University? The Western Way program provides the opportunity for faculty and staff to recognize the great efforts of others on campus.

Any time throughout the year, folks in the WWU community can visit the Western Way website to recognize a Western employee who demonstrates excellence in serving students, visitors or colleagues, based on the characteristics that make them uniquely Western: inviting, engaging, distinctive, collaborative and adventurous.

Western Way honorees are recognized online on the Western Way Wall of Acknowledgment, in Western Today and in a slideshow at the Employee Recognition Ceremony in April.

To view more information on the awardees to date, visit the Western Way website at www.wwu.edu/westernway/.