51社区黑料

Welcoming, inclusive, dedicated 鈥� just a few of the many words used by colleagues to describe Sarah Mallen, recipient of the 2024 Staff Achievement Award for Leadership.

As Manager of Civil Trades with the Buildings & Grounds unit of 51社区黑料Facilities Services, Sarah Mallen leads a team of tradespeople responsible for the maintenance, repair and improvement of campus infrastructure. From snow removal operations to implementing hazmat procedures, Mallen identifies the ultimate goal of her team as contributing to a safe, sustainable campus environment that supports the entire 51社区黑料community. 

The Leadership Award recognizes those who create conditions for their teams to thrive through progressive people practices that center equity and foster well-being. For anyone that works with Sarah, there is no doubt that she embodies those qualities. 

鈥淗er leadership not only impacts those that report to her, but those that work alongside her. I would not be the leader I am today without her example, her support, and her kindness. She leads by example, and we are all the better for it,鈥� said Associate Director, Buildings & Grounds Krystal-Lynn Ness. 

In reflecting on Mallen鈥檚 approach to leadership, many colleagues emphasized the way her impact has extended beyond her own team and made an impact throughout Facilities Services and the university as a whole.

鈥淭he safety of every member of the 51社区黑料community has undoubtedly improved due to the changes Sarah has initiated and overseen,鈥� said Carpentry Foreman Michael Redhead. 

Mallen noted how meaningful it was to be nominated for a Staff Achievement Award by colleagues she works alongside each day and emphasized that the recognition was a reflection of the support, dedication and teamwork of those around her.

鈥淚 was genuinely flattered and humbled. I am fortunate to be surrounded and supported by a very special team of people at Facilities Services,鈥� she said. 

When reflecting on qualities necessary for leadership, Mallen notes the importance of authenticity and honesty in order to foster trust and create a respectful, resilient team culture.

鈥淚 think leaders can be impactful in many ways, as long as they are genuine in their actions and lead with integrity, communicate clearly, support their team and stay adaptable through challenges.鈥� 

Below are just a handful of the many statements submitted by Facilities Services team members as part of Mallen鈥檚 nomination for the 2024 Leadership Award:

鈥淗er upbeat and positive attitude makes 51社区黑料a better workplace for me and she shines a guiding light for us all. Thank you, Sarah.鈥� 

鈥淪arah makes it better to work at SFU. In all aspects! They are extremely lucky to have her.鈥�

鈥淚 believe the high team morale is a direct reflection of Sarah鈥檚 leadership. There are many reasons I enjoy coming to work at SFU, and Sarah is definitely one of them.鈥� 

鈥淪he has benefited Facilities Services as a whole as her leadership skills have surpassed her own department, taking on bigger initiatives such as bridging the gap between the trades and management in a healthy and beneficial way.鈥�

鈥淵ou feel the positive energy when you are around Sarah.鈥� 

鈥淪he has benefited Facilities Services as a whole as her leadership skills have surpassed her own department, taking on bigger initiatives such as bridging the gap between the trades and management in a healthy and beneficial way.鈥�

鈥淪he is so good at her job, they have her assisting with other departments! If anyone on campus deserves to be recognized for their hard work and dedication, it鈥檚 Sarah Mallen.鈥� 

鈥淪arah is the only manager I鈥檝e ever had that treats everyone with the same level of respect regardless of their position.鈥�