Stevenson recognized for spreading the word

Allison Stevenson

Allison Stevenson, Western Engineering’s Communications Specialist, is the recipient of the 2012 Sharon A. Ling Award of Excellence for Outstanding Achievement by a Staff Member. 

Western Engineering News | April 18, 2013

You may not recognize her when you pass her in the hall but you definitely know her name from the weekly email – Allison Stevenson is Western Engineering’s Communications Specialist and this year’s recipient of the Sharon A. Ling Award of Excellence for Outstanding Achievement by a Staff Member.

“Since joining Western Engineering, Allison has been instrumental in developing several initiatives to improve internal and external communications for the faculty,” says Lesley Mounteer, Western Engineering’s Associate Director (External Services) and award nominator.  “Faculty, staff and students regularly go to Allison for advice on any and all communications matters.”

With limited resources, Stevenson is quick to develop plans and find solutions to problems.  She works directly with faculty, staff and students to see their vision implemented.

“Allison always looks for input from her project partners and peers, and is amenable to changing deadlines and ideas,” says Mounteer.  “It is admirable how she is able to negotiate challenges presented by working in large and diverse teams.”

Over the years, Stevenson has implemented new projects and ideas including various undergraduate recruitment materials with the Undergraduate Services Office and social media accounts including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr and blogs.

“Through Allison’s dedication and guidance, Western Engineering has become a model faculty on campus and among peer institutions for its use of social media,” says Mounteer.

To date, Western Engineering has over 1,220 followers on Twitter, 1,170 likes on various Facebook pages and 136 photo albums on Flickr.

As a leader, Stevenson offers mentorship and support to staff members under her supervision and acts as a cheerleader for her colleagues in Western Engineering, and across campus.

“Allison is an exceptional team player and works hard to make sure all voices are heard and understood,” adds Mounteer.  “She understands what matters most is what is best for the faculty and university – even if this means moving forward with ideas that challenge her own opinions.”

In the community, Stevenson has been an exceptional liaison for Western Engineering.  Her involvement and leadership with IABC (International Association of Business Communicators) has given Western Engineering, and the faculty’s communication projects, exposure to the local community.

In recognition of Stevenson’s diverse skill set, collegiality and commitment to promoting Western Engineering to internal and external audiences, she has been awarded the Sharon A. Ling Award of Excellence for Outstanding Achievement by a Staff Member.  She will be presented with the award at the Western Engineering Faculty & Staff Awards Luncheon on May 16.