Viewpoint: Outstanding service

Harding relies heavily on the behind-the-scenes work of its staff. Through their dedication, drive and vision, they allow the University to continue its pursuit of excellence. Five of these exceptional staff members are featured in this issue, beginning on page 20.

While he is not mentioned in this feature,? if you have been receiving this magazine very long you may notice a name missing from the masthead on the right. Director of Public Relations David Crouch retired in June after serving this University wholeheartedly for 46 years.

In response to my asking him how I could be a better president in my second year, Crouch wrote me a letter from which I shared an excerpt with the staff at our pre-session conference Aug. 9. To me, it speaks volumes about the heart of this humble servant.

His first suggestion was “Spend more time recognizing and giving attention to the staff segment of Harding employees. These 400-500 individuals in many respects hold the keys to the University’s success. They don’t teach a single class, but they do all those behind the scenes functions that keep this place running ... These are the people who in many cases are the public’s first contact with Harding, and in some cases are the only contacts off-campus people have with Harding.”

Another dealt with prayer, wisely advising me to pray long and often for the University.

Senior public relations major Erin Hanson wrote a story about his retirement published in The Bison newspaper March 24. In it Crouch said, “I have worked for three Harding presidents, and that is time I will cherish — memories I will cherish — of working with three outstanding men of character. In my position? I have worked with people all across the campus. Unlike some positions that deal with just a certain group of people, my work has covered the whole span of campus.”

Tom Buterbaugh, his assistant director for the past 25 years, said in the article, “[Crouch] is a true servant leader. He’s the best boss you could ask for — he puts everyone above himself, and he truly cares about Harding. He never cares about recognition for himself — he only cares about advancing Harding and advancing the people in [the public relations] office.”

A new name on the masthead is Jana Rucker. As the University’s newest vice president, she is now heading our communications and marketing efforts in an expanded version of the role so ably filled by Crouch. The division has been renamed Office of University Communications and Marketing to reflect the increased focus on elevating the Harding brand. You can read more about her appointment on page 8.

Chancellor Emeritus Clifton Ganus often says that part of what makes Harding great is the people who come and stay. Staff members dedicating their lives to serving Harding as David Crouch did are and will continue to be a key piece in this community of mission.