Schellenberg to be honored for 21 years of service

By Jason Koole
Western Herald

Western Michigan University will host a retirement reception on Thursday, Aug. 26, for Penny Schellenberg, who has given 21 years of service to the university.

The reception will be held at The Oaklands from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Schellenberg worked as the assistant to the ombudsman.  According to WMU’s website, the university ombudsman is an intervention agent and impartial person who helps students, faculty and staff resolve academic and non-academic concerns.

Schellenberg says that she will miss her job and WMU when she is gone.

“I’ve worked in all different departments on campus,” Schellenberg said.

“It’s exciting and scary, a little bit of both.  I’m going to miss meeting and helping students.  It’s kind of bitter sweet,” Schellenberg said. “I love what I’m doing and I love my boss that I’m working with.  She’s very explanative in what she does and being able to serve the community here at [WMU] and be an intricate part of [WMU]. I’m going to miss that part of it very much.”

Over the years, Schellenberg has witnessed a lot of changes in her time at the university.

“Students and staff have been growing and changing,” Schellenberg said. “Change is the only thing that’s constant in our lives and I see that all the time in the new buildings, in the new faces. I see a change and it’s good.”

Schellenberg started her career in the Ombudsman’s office after being asked to step in by Dr. Diether Haenicke.

“When Dr. Haenicke came back to WMU, I was working in his area and he asked me to open it back up for him on a part-time basis, so I did,” Schellenberg said.  “We opened up the department and I’ve been there ever since.”

Short URL: http://www.westernherald.com/?p=19283

Posted by HeraldAdmin on Aug 25 2010. Filed under Breaking, Campus, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

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