Staff Council Recognizes Autumn Wilke and Joseph Bagnoli with the Star Staff and Leading Leader Awards

The Staff Council recognized the following staff members at the Annual Staff Recognition Brunch, hosted by the Office of Human Resources on Wednesday, January 17, 2024.  

The Star Staff Award  

This award is given annually to an employee who has continually demonstrated that they are a star throughout their time at Grinnell. The staff member is considered an outstanding performer in their regular job duties, demonstrating quality work, professionalism, and pride in their position. They exhibit the core values of the institution by supporting the success of our students, a diverse community, and social responsibility. In addition, they demonstrate an ability to work collaboratively with others, as well as being reliable, dependable, and studious.  

Autumn Wilke has been honored with the Star Staff Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to Grinnell College. Her nominator commended Wilke’s dedication, professionalism, and versatility, highlighting her remarkable journey from residence life coordinator (RLC) to her current role as associate chief diversity officer for disability resources. 

According to her nominator, “Wilke’s impact spans across various roles and the College’s recognition of her work is evident in the numerous promotions she has earned throughout her tenure. One of her outstanding qualities is her selflessness and dedication to putting the College and its students first, always striving for the best outcomes.” 

Wilke’s commitment to equity and inclusivity is a cornerstone of her work. Even before she began her role in Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI), she actively raised equity issues, contributing to meaningful initiatives like the Innovation Fund project. This project, co-proposed with Eliza Willis, professor emerita, engaged students in reviewing campus spaces for accessibility, a feat acknowledged in The Grinnell Magazine. Additionally, Wilke’s pursuit of a doctorate, with a dissertation focusing on defining success for students with disabilities, underscores her dedication to advancing knowledge. 

Wilke’s nominator, who works closely with Wilke, emphasized her reliability, dependability, and team-oriented approach. “Her role in the Disability and Accessibility Task Force was pivotal, leading the College to critically examine accessibility. Her expertise, coupled with a collaborative task force, played a crucial role in shaping Grinnell’s commitment to accessibility, leaving a lasting impact.” The Star Staff Award is a testament to Wilke’s exceptional contributions, reflecting her tireless efforts to make Grinnell College an inclusive and thriving community. 

The Leading Leader Award  

This award is given annually to a supervisor who consistently demonstrates work-life sensitivity and support for the professional and personal needs of their employees. This supervisor empowers everyone to achieve their best work and offers development opportunities for future growth. They demonstrate fairness and consistency in all actions; they communicate goals and expectations clearly and hold staff accountable while providing tools for achievement. This supervisor removes unnecessary barriers to accomplishment and assists with problem solving. 

Joseph Bagnoli, vice president of enrollment and dean of admission, has been honored with the Leading Leader Award — well-deserved recognition for his exceptional leadership and dedication to the well-being of his staff. According to his nominator, who has been at Grinnell for over seven years, “Joe’s leadership is the driving force that has kept them committed to the institution. Despite the inherent stress of his role, Joe consistently demonstrates kindness, equity, and fairness in his interactions with the staff.” 

Bagnoli’s stand-out qualities include his openness to new ideas, ability to handle constructive feedback without defensiveness, and his commitment to treating all staff with respect and kindness. The nominator emphasized his approachability, stating that they always feel comfortable walking into his office to express concerns, knowing that he will listen with respect. “Joe’s generosity with his time, especially considering his busy schedule, is highlighted as a significant gift to the staff.” 

Even beyond his own office, Bagnoli is recognized campus-wide as a valuable community member embodying Grinnell’s commitment to shared governance. His collaborative spirit, eagerness to consult, and belief in the power of collaboration contribute to a culture of kindness, thoughtfulness, and respect in every meeting. The Leading Leader Award underscores Bagnoli’s outstanding leadership qualities and his profound impact on fostering a supportive and collaborative environment at Grinnell College.