Heidi Cox Named VSU’s Fall 2021 Employee of the Semester

Heidi Cox

VALDOSTA — Heidi Cox is the recipient of Valdosta State University’s Fall 2021 Employee of the Semester Award.

“When my name was called out as the employee of the semester, I was taken by surprise, and it made me feel so valued and appreciated,” she said. “My heart was full.”

Cox first joined the VSU staff in May 2008 as a senior auditor with the Office of Internal Audit. In November 2011 she was named internal audit director at Albany State University. She returned to VSU in February 2016 and currently serves as internal audit director.

Wendy Byrd, training specialist for Human Resources and Employee and Organizational Development, nominated Cox for the award.

“Heidi takes pride in serving VSU and does so in a genuine and friendly way,” Byrd said. “She is recognized as a leader that rolls up her sleeves alongside of the team to get the work done.”

As VSU’s internal audit director, Cox provides assurance and consulting services to mitigate risks. She also leads VSU’s annual Ethics Week and collaborates with other departments on campus to host activities that honor ethical values and promote the Blazer Creed. She said the best part about her job is constantly learning and growing to help improve VSU.

“Blazer Nation, you’re my alma mater, and I’m so proud to be a part of this amazing family,” she added. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from VSU in 2004 and is currently pursuing a Master of Accountancy.

Jenny White, university budget analyst from VSU’s Budget and Payroll Services Team, was named first runner-up for the Employee of the Semester Award. Darius Anthony, assistant director of employer relations with the Office of Career Opportunities and Volunteer Services, was named second runner-up.

Cecilia Furey with the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Lynette Hepburn-Richardson with the Office of Career Opportunities and Volunteer Services, Rafiah Jenkins with the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Timothy Balch with the Department of Public Safety, Holly Wright with the Counseling Center, and David Shaw with Campus Recreation were also nominated for this honor.

The Employee of the Semester Award is presented by VSU’s Council on Staff Affairs at the end of every fall and spring semester. All full-time classified staff employees are eligible for the award.