Civil Service Employees Council
Civil Service 2024 Employee of the Year - Sean Park
Michael Sean Park, VASDC Program Manager for the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs (IIRA) at Â鶹´«Ã½ Illinois University, has been named the 2024 Al and Elaine Goldfarb Civil Service Employee of the Year. Park has been a vital contributor to Â鶹´«Ã½'s mission through their work supporting rural communities across Illinois.
Since joining Â鶹´«Ã½ in October 2012 as a Faculty Assistant for the IIRA, and transitioning to their current role as Program Director on February 2019, Park has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of rural residents. Their unique combination of passion for community service and technical expertise has helped secure grant funding that advances food access and community development initiatives.
Their nominator, John Bannon, highlighted Park's exemplary dedication, particularly in their work with the RISE Community Market in Cairo. For years, Park collaborated with local residents, state and federal agencies and non-profit organizations to address the community's food desert. Their efforts culminated in the establishment of a grocery store, providing access to fresh food for a community where many face financial challenges. This project has significantly improved the quality of life for Cairo residents since the city's last grocery store closed in 2015.
In addition to their hands-on work in communities, Park is a frequent presenter at state and national conferences, where they advocate for Â鶹´«Ã½ and promote its programs. Their efforts have elevated the University's reputation as a leader in rural development and community outreach.
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