Like a typical commencement ceremony, the proud walked toward a table as their names were called one by one in alphabetical order, with some mispronunciations. Some pumped their arms in the air while the audience clapped and “woo”-ed. The honorees weren’t students, however, but staff members who have worked at The New School for a decade or more.

In the first university-wide ceremony of its kind dedicated to recognizing employees’ length of service, The New School awarded certificates to staff who have given it more than 10 years of service.

“It was great to know that I was recognized for the length of time that I’ve been here. For the history that I can bring to the university. For the dedication and service that I’ve provided for the university,” Sharon Greenidge, the assistant director of graduate admissions, said.

Having served for 21 years, Greenidge described how other staff who have also served for long periods of time often felt neglected by the university. But, when she received the email invitation, she and many others were excited that the university was finally taking the time to recognize their service.

“It was a great experience to say, ‘Okay, finally this year they’ve really taken the opportunity to set aside some time and acknowledge those that have been here for a long time,’” Greenidge said.

This ceremony was held on Thursday, March 23 during the university’s fourth annual “Staff Development Day.” Throughout this day, the university also offered staff breakfast, three workshop sessions, a game show and a happy hour after the event.

“It’s a day really for connecting, for learning, for having a chance to connect with your colleagues, and really celebrate one another and step away from the office,” said Ilana Levitt, the senior director of employee development and organizational effectiveness, who organized the day.

The recognition ceremony took place inside the Tishman auditorium, where the front row seats were sectioned off by taped paper signs noting “20+”, “15+”, and “10+”. Staff seated themselves in sections corresponding to how many years they have served at The New School. Those who have not yet worked at the school for 10 years sat towards the back of the auditorium.

Irwin Kroot, the ceremony presenter and assistant vice president of central administration, said there are 187 staff members who have served for more than a decade, 90 who topped 15 years and 88 staffers who gave 20 years of their lives to The New School.

Staff members who have served for 20 or more years are invited to have a breakfast with President Van Zandt on one of two different dates, according to Levitt.

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Photo by Don Eim