Employee of the Quarter Shari Huscher, Academic Services Professional, is one of the many staff helping campus run behind the scenes.
An important part of the Computer Science Department in the College of Engineering and Applied Science, Shari handles administrative tasks, intensive scheduling, communication, all purchasing and expensing for the department, faculty and students, booking travel and accommodations for candidates and all classroom, professor and capacity updates.
“I am basically on standby for all things faculty,” Shari explained. “I do the scheduling for over 90 sections per semester and I work closely with our Student Support Professional and Chair so we spend much of the day ‘putting out fires’ and working on numerous projects.”
Though her days are often full, she enjoys the busy schedule and the colleagues she shares them with.
“I love that it is fast paced and I am never bored!” said Shari. “Some days are difficult and busy, but having great people in your corner makes the day that much easier.”
Shari joined UCCS in March of 2022. Starting a new role can be stressful enough on its own, but Shari was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer just a month later in April 2022. Amazingly, she worked throughout her entire treatment period of chemotherapy and multiple surgeries while acclimating to her position.
“Looking back, it is hard to imagine that I was able to do this,” said Shari. “While it was not easy, I had an amazing support system. Most of my coworkers, especially Ali Langfels and the Computer Science Department Chair, Dr. Kalita, were so good to me, and carried me on my journey allowing patience and grace. I am forever grateful, and so proud to have survived and now be thriving!”
Outside of work, Shari loves spending time with her three sons and grandson. They enjoy “glamping” or “glamorous camping” and being outdoors as much as they can.
“I am big on fitness and health!” she shared. “We take lots of walks and hikes, spend time with friends and family, and watch movies. When I do not have the kids, you can find me in the gym strength training, dancing and doing yoga, and I love spending time with my girlfriends.”
Shari’s efforts and kindness are evident in her work every day, especially to her immediate colleagues and those who nominated her for Employee of the Quarter.
“I was shocked and touched when I found out I had been nominated and chosen,” Shari said. “I just try to treat all people well and help out where I can because I know how hard it is to navigate our systems without help or guidance. It goes to show, that treating people with kindness goes a long way, even if you do not realize that you are making a difference!”