Ashley Smith a Provost's Unit Award for Excellence winner

David Woodbury, Ashley Smith, and Provost Arden

Ashley Smith, University Library Technician in the User Experience department, was recently recognized as one of four winners of the annual Provost Unit Awards for Excellence. The awards, given by each unit on campus, recognize accomplishments by staff in one of several categories: Customer Service, Efficiency and Innovation, Heroism, Human Relations, Outstanding State Government Service, Public Service, and Spirit of North Carolina.

Ashley was nominated by David Woodbury, associate head of User Experience for her exemplary customer service in her role as a key member of the Ask Us service team at D. H. Hill Jr. Library, one of the busiest service points at the University. In his nomination letter, David noted that, “Ashley innately understands the needs of students and faculty, trains our student employees to provide help at a high level, and has helped improve the Libraries’ support in technology areas.”

“She is on the front line responding to student and faculty requests for digital media help. She oversees our poster printing service at D. H. Hill Jr. Library and coordinates the specialty lending program, including helping the Libraries lend new devices such as the Oculus Rift virtual reality kit and Apple Watches.”

David also praised Ashley’s understanding and empathy that she brings to her interactions with students in need of help. “This connection is clearly evidenced when Ashley is talking with students at the desk. The attention she gives patrons with her calm demeanor and empathetic questions is exactly what they need whether they are a student facing a stressful exam or a faculty member printing posters for a conference.” The head of the User Experience department, Josh Boyer, wrote “Ashley cares about our student employees and is dedicated to training them. She shows good judgment. I’m so glad to have Ashley in this key role.”

At a reception with the Provost on March 31, Ashley received a check in the amount of $250.00, a plaque, and eight hours of paid annual leave.