Photo by Christina VanHorn,
UNH Human Resources

Susan Ross is not one who shies away from a challenge. She has used the past twenty-six years of her employment at UNH to push herself, both personally and professionally, and to help others achieve. When she first began at the University as a Clerk III, in 1977, Susan intended to finish up a degree program. Though raising a family took precedence in the intervening years, in 1998 she earned a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Studies through the College of Lifelong Learning. She has served the University community for three years as a member of the Administrative Office Professionals (AOP) committee, two of which she served as Chair, though that role required that she speak in front of large groups of people - a task with which she was originally uncomfortable. With the support of the committee members, and through her desire to make the University community aware of the efforts of the AOP, she found the confidence to take on the required public speaking. Susan also supports others in their efforts at personal development. In fact, from October through April, she volunteers one night a week at a homeless shelter for women and children. Susan notes that one of the most rewarding experiences for her has been bonding with residents and watching the progress that some of them have made.

When asked what she finds most satisfying about her position as an Information Support Assistant for Alumni Affairs, Susan's response was "working with people, I love working the various alumni events and talking with the alumni, parents and friends. Also, in my everyday work routine, I work with a lot of people both in person and on the telephone." That everyday work routine generally includes updating and verifying biographical information, providing training for work-study students and staff on the current data system, coordinating schedules for the department, responding to telephone inquiries and requests and generating reports. Besides the necessary people skills, Susan states that the position also requires that one be detail-oriented, with good organizational and computer skills.

In her spare time, besides volunteering at the aforementioned shelter, Susan is an avid gardener and home decorator.