Laurie Retzer
Laurie Retzer of Athletics is the recipient of a Living Our Values Award.
The Living Our Values (LOV) awards recognize individuals and groups that exemplify Illinois State’s core values of Learning and Scholarship, Diversity and Inclusion, Respect, Collaboration, Individualized Attention, Civic Engagement, and Integrity, as spelled out in Educate Connect Elevate: Illinois State – The Strategic Plan for Illinois’ First Public University 2018-2023. The awards celebrate the commitment to live the University’s values every day and strengthen the campus community by sharing those values.
As the office administrator of Athletics, Retzer serves the sports of baseball, softball, soccer, men’s tennis, women’s tennis, men’s track and field/cross country, women’s track and field/cross country, gymnastics, men’s golf, women’s golf, and swimming and diving.
Co-workers cheer for Laurie Retzer during a Living Our Values Award presentation.
Retzer was nominated by Athletics Director Larry Lyons for the values of Individualized Attention and Collaboration. “Laurie is a vital cog in the daily administration of the activities of each of the sports,” said Lyons. “She epitomizes the hardworking, team-first employee that Illinois State is known for.”
A 1977 graduate, Retzer is the fourth of six generations of ISU alumni. She joined the Illinois State staff 30 years ago, beginning in Facilities Management, before moving to Athletics four years later.
“Upon entering Horton 211, you can see a colorful collage on the west wall depicting our diverse student-athletes competing in their respective team sports,” said Retzer, who is known for her welcoming smile and skill at quickly assessing the needs of others. “This mural reflects the students, coaches, trainers and communications staff I interact with daily. Highly skilled and talented individuals who come from a range of backgrounds, whom I assist with varied tasks. They are my world and I totally enjoy it.”
Lyons noted Rezter goes the extra mile to accomplish tasks and to ensure those with whom she collaborates know their importance.
Nominees for the Living Our Values awards can be any current Illinois State student, faculty, or staff member, or a group of people at Illinois State working toward a program or initiative that reflects the core values.
Nomination forms can be found on the Educate Connect Elevate: Illinois State website.
