Widener University annually recognizes two longstanding employees for their hard work and commitment to the university with the William David Eckard Jr. Award for Distinguished Service. This year President Stacey Robertson presented the awards to Executive Director for University Systems Erica Austin and Campus Safety Lt. Vontel Green.

The Eckard Award was established by William David Eckard III, longtime vice president of administration and finance at Widener University and a 1966 graduate of Pennsylvania Military College. He and his family created the award in memory of his father to help promote and reward excellence at Widener. The honor is given to two employees who have worked for Widener on a full-time basis for at least 10 years and who have consistently demonstrated an outstanding level of service.

Austin joined the Widener community in 2003. Throughout her career at Widener, she has earned the reputation of a campus leader and trusted problem solver who can make sense of complicated systems and data. She is someone who moves important initiatives forward. Her work touches nearly every corner of the university and she is dependable, generous with her time and respected for her quiet strength.

“In every setting, Erica brings an exceptional combination of intelligence, precision, and calm, steady judgment,” Robertson said. “She is a treasured colleague whose contributions have made Widener stronger in countless ways.”

Green began with the Office of Campus Safety in 2011 and has progressed through the ranks of officer, corporal and sergeant to reach lieutenant. Her deep knowledge of the campus, combined with her approachable and positive nature, make her an invaluable leader and positive presence in the Widener community. Beyond her day-to-day duties, Green goes above and beyond to lift team morale. She transforms the dispatch office for holidays year round, celebrates staff birthdays and anniversaries and contributes to Widener’s true sense of belonging through her many thoughtful gestures.

“She exemplifies our commitment to customer service and our mission to care for everyone we serve,” Robertson said. “Most importantly, Vontel continually expresses how meaningful it is to engage with students, especially during Campus Safety tabling events. She sees every interaction as an opportunity to build trust, share knowledge, and support student well being.”

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