Martinson named December’s Civil Service Employee of the Month

Elizabeth Martinson, a program assistant in the Division of Research and Economic Development, has been named South Dakota State University’s Civil Service Employee of the Month for December. 

She will be honored from noon-1:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21, in Morrill Hall 104. 

Martinson has worked at SDSU for the past six years. 

Daniel Scholl, vice president for research and economic development, said Martinson has made a difference at SDSU, helping the division’s team adapt to challenges. 

“Liz is a stable core force within the division's team, responds in every way that is asked of her, and applies herself in the spirit of SDSU's core values of excellence, creativity, people-centeredness, diversity and integrity,” Scholl said. 

Scholl said Martinson stepped up to take on added duties to help the team creatively adjust to staff vacancies over the past two years. She’s also creative in managing her work and embracing solutions suggested by others. 

“Liz stepped up and did literally all that was asked, never hesitating to put her arms around duties that were not technically in her job description. In so doing, she developed naturally into the support team lead and is the major contributor to continuity of our services,” he added. 

Scholl also said Martinson has been instrumental in helping new colleagues grow in their capabilities and to smoothly transition into their new and restructured roles, and she values people, their varied perspectives, backgrounds, experiences and differences. “Her attitude in this regard makes all the difference in helping everyone to bring their best to our work, even when external forces create challenges. Our team would be less functional and less adaptable without Liz’s influence.” 

Dianne Nagy, assistant vice president for research development and administration, also noted Martinson’s people-centered approach to her work. 

“I’m consistently impressed with the generosity of spirit that shines through her work,” Nagy said. “She is encouraging and supportive, with a warm effervescent demeanor that makes everyone feel welcome and valued, no matter what complications they may bring.” 

Nagy said Martinson helps ensure that SDSU researchers remain compliant with federal, state and local regulations, enabling the university to continue to receive external funding. She also serves diverse constituents and is a staunch advocate for the marginalized. 

“The excellence Liz demonstrates daily and inspires in others has a tremendous ripple effect that extends beyond the confines of our division to encompass the campus, the community, the system, the region and beyond,” Nagy said. 

Martinson lives in Brookings with her three children, Marley, Makiah and Maaric, and their dog, Maddix. Her favorite things include being with her family, traveling, reading, learning and laughing as much as she can. She participates in Community Conversations and assists the Brookings Human Rights Commission on occasion. 

“I am so appreciative for this recognition. I thank the division for allowing me the space to learn and grow within the position and all of those who have shared their wisdom along the way. Lastly, GO, JACKS, GO!” Martinson said. 

All SDSU Employee of the Month selections are determined through a nomination process by the Civil Service Advisory Council. Each civil service employee of the month receives an appreciation monetary gift from the F.O. Butler Foundation. The trustees of the foundation recognize the importance of civil service employees and take this opportunity to thank them for their exemplary service.