News Release 203

JOANN RUSSEL NAMED APRIL EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
BY THE MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Volume 36-203

Contact: Philip J. Tremblay

(For immediate release)

573-751-7629

JEFFERSON CITY, MO., April 14, 2008 --- Joann Russel has been named April 2008 Employee of the Month by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. She is an executive I in the Office of Communications.

In the early stages of developing the department's succession planning program, Russel provided valuable technical support to her supervisor, which ultimately ensured a successful launch of the program. When the department director identified a need to recognize qualifying staff with 20-year service awards, she kept this effort moving forward and met all deadlines. Russel chairs the department's Employee Advisory Council and worked to ensure that the results of a recent exit interview survey were made available to all staff. 

"Joann's contributions have helped make the department a better, more enjoyable place to work, which in turn helps us to hire and retain top-notch employees," said Kathy Deters, public information coordinator and nominator.

Russel's work demonstrates great initiative. When a co-worker asked for her input on better ways to track the department's media coverage, Russel quickly created a database that met the employee's needs. "Joann is always willing to work beyond her job description to assist her co-workers or to improve the department as a whole," said Deters. "She is always looking for better, more efficient ways to operate, and works far beyond the requirements of her job to develop and implement these improvements."

Throughout her career with the department, Joann has exhibited a whole-hearted commitment to furthering its mission. In addition to providing valuable support to staff, Joann is always mindful of the citizens that the agency serves and the natural resources that it protects. Joann is one of this department's greatest and most valuable assets.

Russel has worked for the department since December 1985.  She lives in Holts Summit.

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Editor: Photo is available at http://www.dnr.mo.gov/newsrel/eom-russel.jpg.