Two McKendree staff members commended for excellence 

Praising their leadership, dedication and accomplishments, McKendree University President Daniel Dobbins announced two recipients of the President’s Award for Professional Excellence for 2021: Assistant Dean and Registrar Debbie Larson and Director of Public Safety Ranodore (Ran) Foggs.

The annual awards for staff members were presented during a recent virtual staff and faculty gathering.

Larson, of Belleville, led initiatives to enhance and advance technology and business processes on campus. She motivated students, staff, and faculty through multiple data processing changes, registration processes and technology changes while advancing through the Academic Records Office.

Colleagues noted that she finds solutions to students’ issues, develops many of them into future employees and campus leaders, and listens with care and encouragement. Larson also plays an integral behind-the-scenes role in coordinating and planning commencement exercises, enabling the university to present a dignified ceremony year after year, Dobbins said.

Chief Foggs, a law enforcement officer for more than 35 years, leaves a broad impact as McKendree’s director of public safety for the past eight years. The Fairview Heights resident is retiring at the end of the spring semester.

“His steady professional leadership has ensured the safety and security of the campus, from routine incidents to emergencies and the coronavirus pandemic,” said the president. He instituted proactive campus-wide emergency programs such as active shooter training, and inclement weather and earthquake drills that aligned the university with regional law enforcement.

The chief took on additional important roles as a respected campus thought leader, minister, counselor, mentor and social justice advocate. “He leaves a legacy of influence on students, colleagues and campus visitors as a role model and a moral leader of impeccable character,” said Dobbins.