Heyduk named March’s Civil Service Employee of the Month

Story by Lillie Knott

Sheree Heyduk, a program assistant for the University Student Union, has been named South Dakota State University’s Civil Service Employee of the Month for March.

She will be honored at a reception held from 3-4 p.m. Monday, March 30, in the Campanile Room/Hobo Day Gallery in the University Student Union.

Heyduk has been with SDSU since 2017 and started her role as an event services scheduling program assistant in March 2022. Her professionalism, organization and efficiency have all been praised by her coworkers, who said her commitment to every aspect of her work has distinguished her as an outstanding employee.

In her role, Heyduk oversees all reservations across campus, a responsibility that requires accuracy, attention to detail and thorough communication. She manages this complex system with efficiency, ensuring a seamless experience for everyone involved.

“Sheree’s customer service skills are exemplary,” said Mark Venhuizen, director of operations and event services for the University Student Union. “She communicates campus policies and procedures with clarity, patience and professionalism, always taking the time to ensure clients not only understand the guidelines but also the reasoning behind them.”

Heyduk is credited with always striving to elevate her team’s performance. She has a genuine desire to contribute to the greater good of SDSU.

“Sheree is very easy to work with, quick to respond to requests, and resolves problems effectively and efficiently, always with a positive attitude and smile. She’s always looking for ways to make things easier for internal and external stakeholders and ways to improve and streamline current processes,” said Pam McBride, program assistant for the Office of Career Development. “For example, she has been instrumental in training individuals across campus to use EMS, the reservation system used to reserve facilities throughout campus.” 

Additionally, Heyduk supervises the students who work at Information Exchange in the University Student Union. She mentors these employees with intentionality, creating an environment of learning and independent thinking.

“She performs the role with independence, reliability and commitment to ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and effectively,” said Becky Pistulka, assistant director of employer engagement. “Her ability to handle situations with ease and care reflects her deep commitment to fostering positive relationships and maintaining the integrity of our operations.”

Heyduk’s favorite part of her job is interacting with people. “Being able to connect with others and support the campus community is what makes my work especially rewarding.”

She said she enjoys helping students, staff and visitors bring their events to life. At SDSU, she’s served on the Parking Committee, Facility Management Leadership Team, the Student Activities Programming Group and the “Union Cheermeisters.” Outside of work, she enjoys sewing and crafting and spending time outdoors.

“I am very thankful for this nomination and the team I get to work with,” Heyduk said. “This recognition reflects the collaboration and support we share. I am proud to be part of it.”

All SDSU Employee of the Month selections are determined through a nomination process by the Civil Service Advisory Council. Each civil service employee of the month receives an appreciation monetary gift from the F.O. Butler Foundation. The Trustees of the foundation recognize the importance of civil service employees and take this opportunity to thank them for their exemplary service.