Staff Who SOAR – Cherie Gaume
Meet Cherie Gaume, administrative assistant, who was nominated to Staff who SOAR in 2024. Cherie was nominated for her willingness to go above and beyond for students:
“I walked into the office and Cherie immediately asked how she could help. I explained the story about a student I was trying to help. I needed some answers and Cherie was able to give them. I had the facts I needed. She offered me her card and said the student could call her and she would explain everything to her. Cherie is a great example of service and departments working together for the benefit of a student. Thanks Cherie!”
Continue reading the Q&A session to learn more about what motivates Cherie to go the extra mile for our students.
Question: How long have you worked at the University?
Answer: I have been here for eight and a half years. I started when it was Armstrong State University.
Q: How does it feel to be recognized by your coworkers?
A: I feel appreciated. It's not why I do the work, but it helps when you have support.
Q: In your role you have a lot of interaction with students, what is the best professional advice you could give them?
A: Talk to their professors. Introduce themselves and don't be afraid to reach out to them. Find out what resources are available to them on campus.
Q: Are you involved in any committees or additional activities at Georgia Southern?
A: I have been involved with the Armstrong Collaboration Team, Division of Student Affairs Budget and Admin committee, and Celebrate steering committee. I enjoy collaborating with campus partners to enhance student experience. And who doesn't love Celebrate? It allows me to collaborate with other departments. I operate the Captain's Cupboard Food Pantry on the Armstrong Campus so I try to work with other departments' events to get donations and bring awareness to the pantry and food insecurity.
Q: What motivates you to go above and beyond at work?
A: I think it's the mom in me. Most of the students here are my children's age and I hope there's someone on their campus who is willing to go above and beyond for someone who really needs it.
Q: What led you to Georgia Southern University?
A: Honestly, I would drive past the campus and thought that it would be a beautiful place to work in Savannah. It's nice to be part of a community that finds pride in our campus.
Q: How has your role changed over the years?
A:It definitely has grown. I work with more students and campus partners. The Captain's Cupboard food pantry started out on one shelf in a random closet and it has grown to a place where students can come and get what they need so that they don't have to worry about where their food is coming from next.
Q: Is there anyone who has had a significant impact on you or your work?
A: Yes! My team and my family, I couldn't do the work I do without them. They support me, encourage me, educate me and inspire me.
Posted in Applaud, My News, Reward & Recognition, Staff