Photo by Kevin Hinchey,
UNH Human Resources

For most of us on campus, a day at work includes a multitude of interactions with a variety of people. We may give these daily occurrences little thought or attention, until a particularly upbeat individual brightens our day. For many of us, Peter Macalaster is one such individual.

For the past nine years, Peter has been working at the Institute on Disability. As an Office Assistant, Peter is the initial contact for those seeking information on, or the services of, the Institute. Anyone who has ever spoken with him knows that the tone he sets for the Institute is distinctively upbeat and helpful. His hearty greetings are always conveyed with much enthusiasm.

Peter is responsible for all receptionist duties including greeting guests, faxing, labeling, food orders and sorting and distributing incoming mail. He states that communication skills, patience and friendliness are helpful attributes in his position. He initially became interested in working at UNH due to its proximity to his home, and the benefits package offered by the University System. His interest in the position grew as a result of the very positive impact made on him by the department head of the Institute. He states, "As soon as I had my interview, the positive energy and environment made me interested and excited to have the opportunity to work in this office." And he's been brightening days ever since.