Chastang-Howard Recognized Nationally for Excellence
Posted on May 4, 2020 by Joy Washington
Pamela “Pamm” Chastang-Howard, administrative assistant for the University of South Alabama Honors College, has been honored with the 2020 National Collegiate Honors Council Award for Administrative Excellence.
Chastang-Howard said she was at a loss for words after receiving an email from Dr. Kathy Cooke, dean of the USA Honors College, sharing that she was this year’s NCHC award winner.
“I am still speechless over receiving this amazing honor,” she said. “I was totally surprised. I feel so appreciated. I am just doing my job, and I am so grateful for Dr. Cooke, the Honors students, faculty, and staff. They are all amazing to work with. I love my job and the people that I am blessed to work within the USA Honors College and the USA family.”
The National Collegiate Honors Council gives the award annually in honor of Administrative Professionals Day. Each year, members of the NCHC are invited to nominate administrative professionals who support and sustain their honors programs and colleges. Cooke and the Honors College faculty and staff submitted the nomination for the award.
“Pamm is not only an invaluable resource to the Honors College, she is an anchor to the community” Cooke said. “She is as generous in sharing community experiences as she is in her professional duties. Beyond the Honors College, she is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in all areas.”
When Chastang-Howard, a native of Mobile, thinks about being the recipient of this honor, she said there’s more work to be done.
“As the recipient of this honor, this makes me want to strive to be even better,” Chastang-Howard said. There’s always room for improvement. I am ecstatic about winning this award. I am humbly appreciative.”
Cooke said Chastang-Howard has an extraordinary skill set, along with dedication and strong people skills. She is also known for providing essential support to other University departments. Chastang-Howard was one of the recipients of USA’s 2016 Outstanding Employee Service Awards.
“What’s more impressive, Pamm has been able to maintain her efficiency and demeanor despite a threefold increase in honor students and the addition of two staff members,” Cooke explained. “Pamm displays professionalism, attention to detail and warmth when supporting others. During her 11 years at the Honors College, she has been consistent in showing her deep commitment to the College. Pamm provides the right personal touch that adds an extra special zing to the Honors College.”
Chastang-Howard is a graduate of Mattie T. Blount High School. She also earned her associate’s degree in business administration/secretarial science from Bishop State Community College.