The University of Tennessee at Martin has named Justin McElroy as the recipient of the Spring 2020 Beth Maloan Outstanding Student Employee Award for his outstanding job performance, commitment to the university and exemplary work ethic.

McElroy is a senior education major from Puryear and has worked for the Office of Environmental Health and Safety on campus for 3 ½ years. As a student worker, he is responsible for maintaining the approximately 980 portable fire extinguishers, verifying the exit and emergency lights, checking emergency eyewashes and showers, and ensuring that AEDs are operating, and performing monthly and yearly inspections of safety equipment on campus.

McElroy has continued working at UT Martin as an essential employee during the COVID-19 crisis, further proving his qualifications for the award, according to Ted Council, McElroy’s supervisor and Environmental Health and Safety officer for UT Martin.
<blockquote>“Mr. McElroy has demonstrated a true commitment to the university by realizing the importance of ensuring that UTM’s safety equipment is maintained in proper working condition,” said Council. “He has shown leadership abilities by taking it upon himself to provide on-the-job training and close direction for new student employees, which goes above and beyond what his job requirements are. He sure leaves big shoes to be filled once he moves on to an exciting career in education.”</blockquote>
Rachel Stephens, assistant director of student life, says McElroy “has been invaluable during his time working to ensure the safety and security of the campus.” Examples she gave of his key responsibilities included assuring safety protocols are being followed and that safety equipment is in good working order.

The award is given in honor of the late Beth Maloan, UT Martin director of budgeting and dedicated student employee advocate. A plaque and check are presented to a student each spring and fall semester.

“From my past experience of having the opportunity to work alongside Beth Maloan, I am positive she also would be proud for Mr. Justin McElroy to receive this Outstanding Student Award in her honor,” said Council.

For more information, contact the UT Martin Office of University Relations at 731-881-7615.

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