Betsy Justis, an education licensure and standards specialist with the College of Education’s Office of Student Services, was recently presented with the University of Iowa’s Welcoming and Respectful Environment Award.
This award is given to staff members who work toward achieving a welcoming and supportive working environment. It is intended to celebrate those who work to engage with and respect all viewpoints, recognizing how it helps set the UI apart.
Justis was one of only two UI staff members to receive this accolade.
“I was surprised to win this award! I’m thankful for the recognition because it does solidify the university’s commitment to activities that promote physical and emotional health for everyone. Work culture has always been important to me, and I know what a positive impact that can have on staff and retention. I wanted that from my job here,” says Justis. “There had been a social committee at the college in the past, but it had been dormant for years. I started with a few simple activities about a year ago—campus walks, department birthday cards, etcetera—because I saw a gap. This led to reviving the social committee, which was rebranded as the SoWell Committee.
“I try to carry welcoming ideals into every aspect of my job. I have a great team that helps make it all work. The faculty, staff, and students in the college are so great and receptive … it’s such a great place to work.”
Some of Justis’ key job responsibilities include helping license educator preparation students and helping to implement the policies and practices that govern our educator preparation programs.
According to one of her nominators, “Betsy clearly exemplifies the characteristics, attitudes, and enthusiasm needed to promote a welcoming and respectful environment. I think what is most impressive is that in addition to her natural ability to connect with others, she has also found a way to develop a cohesive community in our office without a specific ‘program’ or ‘initiative.’ She simply finds ways that bring people together, she finds ways to celebrate the differences of the people in our office, and she finds ways to make it easy for others to work together in a positive environment.”
Another nominator stated: “Throughout her time at the University of Iowa College of Education, Betsy has consistently fostered a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for our faculty, staff, and students. Her unwavering commitment to creating a positive and respectful workplace has made a lasting impact on our entire college.
“One of Betsy’s most remarkable qualities is her genuine willingness to help others. When the Office of Student Services merged with the Office of the Dean, Betsy immediately embraced her new colleagues, ensuring that everyone felt integrated and valued. She has played a key role in building a cohesive team and in creating a space where everyone feels supported.”