Academic Laboratory Manager
Kent State Tuscarawas
Heather Aubihl has been a shining example of outstanding service in support of student academics and faculty this past academic year. When the campuses closed spring semester to slow the spread of COVID-19, Aubihl took models, microscopes and prepared slides home in anticipation of faculty and student needs. She was prepared to provide any digital imaging that would be crucial for student success while the campus was inaccessible. Aubihl reminded faculty throughout the closure that she was available if they needed anything from the labs. When the campus Basic Microbiology lab needed to be delivered remotely for summer, she worked for two weeks making media and preparing home laboratory kits including a microscope, miniature digital camera and all the media that would be used in an accelerated course for the summer. This was no small feat. Every student who returned the kit reported that they had a great experience. The success of the summer Basic Microbiology lab was directly related to Aubihl’s initiative and organization.
When the campus prepared to open the buildings in summer 2020 for staff and administrators, Aubihl was one of the first choices to serve on the Tuscarawas campus reopening committee. As Academic Laboratory Manager, her understanding of safety protocols helped the committee decide on the protocols and resources necessary to keep the buildings safe for returning personnel. In addition, she helped order, stock and plan for the return of the limited number of students for a trial, in person summer session. As an alumnus of Kent State, earning associate and bachelor degrees and an MBA, Aubihl has shown engagement that inspires positive change, models collaboration and has demonstrated kindness and purpose in dealing with students, staff, administrators and faculty.