Monday, August 13, 2001

WILMINGTON, NC – Rising senior Chris Goings is the inaugural recipient of the Martha Jo Clemmons Departmental Service Award presented by the UNCW Psychology Department Aug. 3.

Goings, a student work assistant, was recognized by Dr. Andy Jackson, professor and department chair, as “a leader among the student workers and someone who is willing to go beyond the call of duty. His experience and judgment are valuable to the department.”

The award, created through a unanimous decision of psychology faculty, honors long-time administrative secretary Martha Jo Clemmons, who is on a medical leave of absence. “For 23 years, Martha Jo has been the backbone of the department,” said Jackson. “She strives to be a problem solver for all who come into the departmental office and is the resource to whom faculty and students turn for help. She’s an excellent ambassador for the department.”

Goings said he was “absolutely thrilled” to be the first recipient. “Martha Jo is a friend. She’s helped me make the transition to return to school.” Goings, who moved to Wilmington from Baltimore, Md., in 1993, is a non-traditional student. He is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Following graduation, he intends to enroll in graduate school.

Clemmons, who attended the presentation along with her husband Robert and daughter Robin ’01, was “amazed and shocked” to have the award named in her honor. The Wilmington native began working for the Psychology Department in July 1978. Robert Clemmons, a Wilmington native who retired from US Airways, is a courier at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Robin Clemmons received a bachelor’s degree in business administration in May.

Goings and future award recipients will have their names inscribed on a plaque that will be displayed in the department’s office.

For more information, contact Dr. Jackson at 910/962-3376. A photo is available for download at the Web site www.uncwil.edu/news/releases/august01/psych_award.html or go to www.uncwil.edu/news and click on the link “For the Media.”