Mary Colini was recognized at the Florida Parking and Transportation Association’s annual conference with the Carol Easterling Award for 2021. This award recognizes a front line employee in the parking and transportation industry in the State of Florida. Per the FPTA, "The award was created to reward those very deserving members of our teams. To champion those front line employees who are the unsung heroes in our organizations." After being recognized as a regional award recipient in October, Mary’s nomination was chosen as the finalist from three regional winners in the state.
Within Parking and Transportation Services, Mary serves as the appeals mediator and staff assistant. She provides the first review of parking appeals and organizes further appeals with university customers. She provides support to other areas within PATS, such as customer service, as needed. She also supports administrative functions and special projects assigned to her by PATS leadership. Prior to this role, she also worked as a customer service representative within PATS.
As part of the nomination Peter Tiberini, Assistant Director in PATS, said "Mary is the epitome of a team player—always willing to help her team members, looking for opportunities to be helpful, and taking time to train new cashiers and ensure their success." It is because of her pro-active work ethic and her willingness to always step up that she was nominated. Mary was surprised to win, but is happy to be recognized. “I really didn’t get this award on my own” said Mary. “It’s because I have a great great team behind me and wonderful co-workers.”