TC At Work: Stacy Thomas | Teachers College Columbia University

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TC At Work: Stacy Thomas

Turning students' frustrations into smiles
Who She Is 

Stacy Thomas is the Data Entry Clerk in Computing and Information Services. She serves students, faculty and staff on a wide variety of issues, from setting passwords to overseeing the implementation of software. For the past 20 years, Thomas has been one of the Shop Stewards for the Local Teachers College 2110 UAW. 

Road to TC 

After graduating from high school, Thomas, who grew up near the TC campus, enrolled in business school. Upon completion of her degree, she learned of an open position in TC's student aid office, thanks to a tip from a friend who was working in accounts payable at the time. That was 26 years ago, and Thomas, who eventually moved to the Center for Computer and Information Management Services Department, hasn't looked back.

Best Part of the Job 

For Thomas, the best part of the job is seeing students who had been frustrated leave her office with smiles on their faces. "That means we've done our job right, and that's what makes me really happy." 

She also enjoys the team environment of her office and particularly appreciates her supervisor, George Schuessler, Director of Academic Computing. "I've worked with George for the entire 20 years he's been at the College. He's the best person in the world." 

In Her Spare Time 

When she's not working, Thomas spends quality time with her family. "That's a must," she says. She also volunteers with an organization that does outreach for sickle cell disease research and awareness. In addition to participating in health fairs on weekends, Thomas is raising funds for a sickle cell walk in September, which she'll participate in with her 20-year-old daughter, who has the genetic blood disorder. Thomas, who once considered going into the nursing field, says her work with the organization is also a source of inspiration: "We are blessed, compared to what so many people go through. I've learned to appreciate everything a little more." 

Did You Know? 

In high school, Thomas had two passions: acting and ROTC, the latter of which she participated for two years. ROTC gave her a strong sense of discipline and structure, both of which built confidence. "You had to follow orders," she says with a smile. 

Published Wednesday, Sep. 1, 2010

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