2006 Employee of the Year: John Folker

By University Affairs

On April 24, John Folker - a sergeant with Campus Security - was named the 2006 Employee of the Year at the annual Faculty Senate/Staff Advisory Council recognition dinner He said the experience was very surreal.

 

"I was very surprised," Folker said "I had almost forgotten I was eligible to receive the award I was just thinking 'Wow This is a great honor!'"

 

With the recognition comes a nice gift certificate that Folker plans to save for a "rainy day." He said the award would not have been possible without the hard work of those on his crew.

For more than four years, Folker has strived to help make the campus community a safe environment for students, faculty and staff. During this time, fellow co-workers said he has excelled at the many tasks that his position entails. He was first recognized for his efforts as the February Employee of the Month in 2006.

 

"I have relied heavily upon John to assist me with many projects. He stands willing to help whenever and wherever he can," one individual wrote "John is conscientious in his duties, concerned for the well being of our clientele and compassionate, yet firm and fair, with all those he supervises. He is a credit to the department and the university."

 

Folker, an Omaha native, said he became interested in working at UNO when a friend of his, who worked on campus, encouraged him to apply for a position. Prior to being named sergeant with Campus Security, he served as an officer.

 

He also gained experience as a former checkpoint security supervisor at Eppley Airfield where he was faced with a number of situations. "I supervised officers operating the metal detectors, X-ray machines and explosive trace detection machine," Folker said. "This position allowed me to encounter many different people of varied cultures and ethnicities. That has proved to be a valuable experience when dealing with the diverse members of the university community."

 

Folker supervises six officers on his shift at UNO. He said he begins his day by reviewing information and checking with the on-duty supervisor for updates before patrolling campus and attending to officers' requests for assistance. "We respond to numerous calls on a nightly basis, from unlocking a door to a loud party," he said. "Every night is different. There is no telling what will occur or what you will discover while on patrol."

 

Variety is what Folker said helps keep his job interesting. Among the many requirements of his job, he said it was enjoyable to work during the campus visit of Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai.

 

A positive force on the Campus Security team, colleagues said that Folker's dedication and enthusiasm is evident in the way he carries out his tasks. "John is always looking for things to do during our shift and is constantly helping everybody on the shift," another nominator wrote "John is totally committed to his shift, his job and the University of Nebraska."

 

Pictured above: Folker and UNO Interim Chancellor John Christensen.

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