McElligott more than earned the honor as she helps every Union club with their finances, manages the Archer Center finances, and is the manager of the Clubhouse Pub. She interacts with students on many levels and has a true understanding of how interacting with administration feels from the student’s perspective. She works hard and is always willing to lend a helping hand. She assists in other activities outside of her specific duties on a regular basis and can often be found in the Union on the weekends.

As she graciously accepted the congratulations she said, “I’m surprised to be even nominated.” Thinking about her job, she realized the most enjoyable part is that she gets to know the students on a different level than others. They randomly stop in to say hi, see how things are, and bring some light to her day. She also receives e-mails from alumni who have moved away to accomplish their goals, letting her know how things are going. Also, working with the officers of the Union clubs brings her closer to these students. At this time of year, though, she gets to say many goodbyes as the graduating students—who are officers of clubs, students she’s met, or Pub workers—come in one last time.

She does admit that “Cathy [Ruff] is my right-hand man,” as she acknowledges that she’s not the only one who works hard. McElligott enjoys the diversity the Union presents her with on a daily basis; she works with students and has lunch with the barber shop manager, food service manager, and bookstore manager.

She looks forward to the Corporate Challenge at the end of May, where employees get to walk or run in a marathon, though she does prefer to be a walker. She also looks forward to seeing RPI present in the Troy Flag Day Parade, which they have worked towards achieving this year.