In observance of Women’s History Month, Nebraska Today has partnered with the Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Women to feature female office/service staff who go above and beyond in their work at Dear Old Nebraska U. This Women of Service series has been featured in Nebraska Today through March.
The series concludes today with Shawn Hunt, vehicle/courier dispatcher for University Fleet Management. She was nominated by Patrick Barrett, director of University Fleet Management.
“In her years of service at University Fleet Management, Shawn has proven she is the best person we have ever had the honor to work with in dispatching rental vehicles, scheduling service and answering fleet related questions,” Barrett said.
Hunt sat down with the Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Women to discuss what inspires her on and off campus.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My university journey has taken me in many directions, from a former University Bookstore employee to dispatcher for Fleet Management. Our university has a lot of amazing people working around both campuses.
How long have you been at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?
More than 18 years with Transportation Services and 10 years with the University Bookstore.
What do you look forward to when you come to work?
I look forward to coming to work knowing that I can learn something new. My goal in my working life is to learn something new every day. I have always enjoyed working with computers and plan to use some skills in retirement. I also look forward to seeing where my customers are traveling to. I research using various methods to see where they are going to and what is there for them.
What is your favorite memory at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?
My favorite memory of the university was during the “rush” at the bookstore. It was tiring, but I really enjoyed the impact the students left on me. I absolutely loved helping them with their college bookstore needs. In return they were patient and appreciated the service they had gotten, even when we did not have their books. I had worked 10 years previously with college textbooks. The campus vibe is amazing.
What is your life like outside of work?
Life outside of work is always busy. Family is important to me, and I immerse myself as much as I can. Hiking, riding bikes, live music, swimming, driving, gardening, decorating, remodeling, snorkeling and so much more are relaxing for me.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
The thing people know about me is that I love to travel. Absolutely love it! I have the drive to research new destinations and old ones. I love the Caribbean. I love to snorkel — from the colors to the smell. The waves crashing is probably one of the most relaxing moments I get. And I make sure I get those moments as often as possible.
