Karen Durden, a Library Associate I in the Missouri State University Libraries, has completed MSU’s University Staff Ambassadors (USA) program as a valued member of the 2024 cohort.

As Karen reflects on the experience:

“Being part of the USA Program has been a wonderful experience. I have always been curious to understand what happens in other areas of the University and see behind the scenes. It has been good to meet staff from other areas and catch a glimpse of what work-life looks like from their perspectives. Meeting others has made it easier for us to relate to one another as we work together to achieve the University’s goals. Collaborating with other staff across the University has deepened my desire to be involved and given me a more positive outlook about being able to reach out to others who can help make wonderful things happen. I appreciate the hard work that Organizational and Talent Development has put into this program as well as all those individuals from every division that took the time to share their expertise and experiences with the 2024 cohort. I am also grateful for those colleagues who took on extra duties while I was out of the office attending USA days and for Library Administration for allowing me to apply. It would be hard to pick a favorite program day as each one was so interesting. I would like to tell you the highlights, but the truth is, other staff need to find out for themselves.”

Congratulations, Karen!