Robert Wells, Director of Risk Management in the Department of Public Safety, Is Employee of the Month for August

August 27, 2019

President John R. Broderick presents Robert Wells with his Employee of the Month Award. Photo Chuck Thomas/ODU

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Robert Wells, director of risk management for the Department of Public Safety, has been selected as Old Dominion University's Employee of the Month for August.

Wells has been employed by the University since 2015.

Wells led the implementation of two major University-wide programs this year.

He spearheaded the expansion of the University Enterprise Risk Management Program, conducting more than 70 orientations, trainings and committee meetings. As a result, the emergency risk management process "better informs the work of the compliance committee and the Office of Internal Audit," said Old Dominion University Police Chief and Assistant Vice President for Public Safety Rhonda Harris said.

In addition, Wells implemented the minors on campus policy.

"He has led in the policy formation, facilitating the implementation strategy, training, developing the program manual and procedures," Harris said. "His outreach to the community has been patient and consistent in allaying their concerns. He has held over 10 meetings with community stakeholders on the implementation, procedures and practices. He has also volunteered to have his office 'own' this program and assume the responsibilities of any on-going program maintenance."

DETAILS ABOUT THE EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH PROCESS

The University Employee of the Month Selection Committee encourages employees to nominate their outstanding, "go the extra mile" colleagues and employees. This program is designed to acknowledge and reward employees whose accomplishments and/or demeanor exemplify excellence, quality service and commitment to ODU. Classified and AP faculty employees receive a framed certificate from the president, $175 and one day of leave. Hourly winners get $250, since they are not eligible to receive recognition leave.

Note: The selection committee needs specific examples that relate to each applicable criterion in order to select a nominee for the award. Nominations remain active for six months from date of submission and nominators may submit additional documentation to support a nominee during the active six months.

The criteria used to nominate an employee include the following:

• An outstanding accomplishment that benefited the department/students.
• Extraordinary service to internal and/or external customers.
• Inspiring initiative/leadership.
• Enthusiasm/energy given to assigned work.
• Teamwork.