Two deserving Houston Christian University (HCU) staff members have been named 2022-2023 Mayfield Outstanding Staff Award recipients. Named in honor of Dr. Ray V. Mayfield, Sr. and his son, Dr. Ray V. Mayfield, Jr., the prestigious award is presented annually to one male and one female staff member with a record of outstanding job performance and service to the University and the community.
Cheryl Johnson, Assistant Director of Academic Records for Enrollment and Academic Service, and Thomas Payne, Director of University Events and Conferences, were announced as this year’s recipients by Sharon Saunders, Vice President of Advancement and University Relations, during HCU’s Faculty and Staff End-of-the-Year Celebration.
During the presentation, Saunders shared the privilege she had of knowing one of the namesakes of the award and commended the father and son duo for their years of service to the University as staff members. She believes that, if asked, the pair would have described the main quality of a Mayfield Award recipient as “someone who responds to their calling.”
Johnson began working at the University in 2002. One nominator described her as an employee who “sits tall in her seat of authority but carries a spirit of humility” and “embodies the heart, attitude and character of servanthood.” She also was described as a person who genuinely loves the students she serves and meets the needs of faculty and staff with a smile and sense of urgency.
Thomas Payne began working at HCU in 2011. He was commended for his willingness to jump in and help with events and his professionalism and calm demeanor in responding to changes and last-minute requests to enhance student experiences. He also was described as an advocate for both campus and community events who is open to honest feedback and seeks to improve the experience for everyone.
Administrators, faculty and staff in attendance joined in a round of applause to celebrate Johnson and Payne for their selection for the annual awards.
Other finalists included Lindsey Herrera, Mai Borges, Aaron Swarts and Jean Tarrats Rivera.