Bailey Honored for 50+ Years of Service to SU
When Debra Bailey began working at then-Salisbury State College in 1972, the campus had just opened its first co-ed residence hall, students got their news from a school paper called the Informer and the inaugural Sea Gull football team was drawing excitement from local sports fans.
More than a half-century later, she was celebrated among the longest-serving employees in University history during the institution’s annual Service Awards ceremony.
The Physical Plant program management specialist, who has served under six SU presidents and three acting and interim presidents, starting with Dr. Norman Crawford, received a special plaque marking her 50 years at SU as of 2022.
“While it is difficult to name one specific memorable event during my 50 years at SU, the things I remember most are the friendships that have been cultivated over the years,” she said. “There are many dedicated, hardworking employees I have worked with who have made the University what it is today, and those who I have worked with the closest will always have a special place in my heart.”
Bailey said it is hard to believe that 50 years have passed since she first accepted a job offer at the University – but it has turned out to be one of the best decisions she has ever made.
Previously, Bailey has been honored as Employee of the Month in June 2013. She was nominated by her supervisor Kevin Mann, former director of Physical Plant.
“Debra’s value to Physical Plant operations and to the University is hard to put into words,” Mann said. “But, life without her can be summarized in one word: difficult.”
During the most recent Service Awards ceremony, in addition to Bailey, SU recognized some 199 faculty and staff with more than 2,500 years of service to the University and the State of Maryland. Also honored, for the first time, were 40 adjunct faculty, who have served SU for more than 600 semesters combined.
The things I remember most are the friendships that have been cultivated over the years.”
– Debra Bailey