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Story by Lillie Knott

Scott Cowan, a support services analyst at Hilton M. Briggs Library, has been named Ģ������Ƶ’s Civil Service Employee of the Month for August.

He will be honored at a reception held from 3-4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, at Briggs Library 130.

Cowan’s attentiveness, efficiency and dedication have all been praised by his coworkers and supervisors. His commitment to every aspect of his work has distinguished him as an outstanding employee.

Since starting at SDSU in 2013 with Facilities and Services, his career has progressed into the information technology role he now holds. Cowan plays a vital role in maintaining the library’s technology as well as helping students and staff successfully utilize its resources.

Cowan keeps all the library’s student computers running smoothly and ensures that the printers are always working. He assists with technology issues at the circulation desk, especially at the beginning of each semester when students often have difficulty with D2L, software, printing and other issues.

“He always has a positive and friendly attitude, ready to assist with any technology or printing issues students may have,” said Taylor Veire, financial program assistant. “It has been an immense help to have Scott in the library, and he has been nothing short of fantastic at assisting students with problems.”

In addition to being dedicated to helping students, he also goes above and beyond in aiding staff with their technology. Cowan approaches issues in a patient and collaborative manner, always troubleshooting and offering creative solutions.

“There is a lot of tech equipment in the library, and some of it is highly specialized. With his help, staff are able to do their jobs with little interruption, and problems are solved quickly,” said Shari Theroux , systems and discovery assistant librarian.

“Scott’s main job is keeping all this technology up and running, and he does so quietly and efficiently,” Theroux added. “He has also done some things like putting together a mobile media cart that we can use in different locations around the library for presentations, demonstrations or Zoom meetings.”

Cowan has been extremely involved in updating the library’s technology, as well as creating and implementing systems that promote efficiency. He has helped in updating the technology inventory, rearranging computers, and creating master lists and maps to keep everything organized and accounted for.

Cowan’s quiet confidence and “whatever-it-takes” attitude are consistently noted by his coworkers.

“Scott is a dedicated and collaborative coworker, and whenever he is needed, he is right there,” said Sally Gillman, director for education abroad. “His demeanor is always positive, and his calm assurance makes us all feel better when it is our technology giving us a bad day.”

Cowan was born in Aberdeen, and his family moved to Arkansas and eventually settled in Wisconsin. He attended SDSU for aviation, met his wife here, and has been in the area ever since. Outside of work, he is a member of Abundant Life Church in Brookings.

“I work every day to ensure the success of students, faculty and staff,” Cowan said.

All SDSU Employee of the Month selections are determined through a nomination process by the Civil Service Advisory Council. Each civil service employee of the month receives an appreciation monetary gift from the F.O. Butler Foundation. The trustees of the foundation recognize the importance of civil service employees and take this opportunity to thank them for their exemplary service.