Amy Simonds, Administrative Assistant/Special Event Coordinator in Parking and Transportation Services, has been named April's Classified Employee of the Month by the Staff Employees Council.

Since beginning her duties in Parking Services in 2013, Simonds has quickly earned a reputation as an employee who goes "above and beyond what is expected of her to ensure that parking arrangements are set up in a clear, concise, and well-thought out manner," according to nominator Michelle Horton, Assistant Director of Parking and Transportation Services.

"After noticing how well Amy handled customer service, she was quickly assigned the job of Special Event Coordinator," Horton said. "Since that time, Amy has excelled in this position. Amy flawlessly coordinates over 450 special events on campus annually. This entails the rental of parking spaces, assigning parking lot attendants, providing shuttle services and designing special signage. Each time a special event is arranged, the decision on where to park the attendees is very important as not to disrupt the zone parking system on campus. Poor decision making can leave the event attendees with a negative image of the Parking Services Department and the University. Amy is aware of this balance and handles each event perfectly.

"Amy is often the first point of contact with the University and her pleasant demeanor and helpful attitude is well-received. Amy is well-liked by customers as well as her co-workers. She is always friendly and the campus community feels 'welcome' when they arrange special events with her. I often receive compliments from faculty, staff and students regarding her positive demeanor and friendly personality."

Horton concluded, "Amy has an excellent work ethic and is consistently dependable. She is outstanding in her position."

For her part, Simonds said that she loves her job, and in particular, in working with dedicated individuals such as Horton.

"Being under the direction of someone who has such a deep knowledge of our department and directs me in such a positive and forward moving manner has helped build my professional character to the high level that it is," she said. "(Horton) has built a strong and friendly work environment that I am proud to be part of. Her sparkling personality and sunny disposition makes me happy to go to work every day."

In her spare time, Simonds enjoys long-distance running.

"I started running two years ago and I love it," she said. "I ran my first half-marathon in October of last year in San Francisco and am looking forward to the races this year that include Disneyland, Napa to Sonoma, and of course, the Redrun in Virginia City. My sole brothers and sisters keep me motivated and smiling every step of the way."