From telescope operators to piano tuners, The University of Texas at Austin recognizes the dedication of its staff during Staff Appreciation Week.
With the motto “UT works because staff work,” Staff Appreciation Week is an opportunity for members of the university community to show appreciation for the hard work and commitment of university staff.
During the next five days, Know will feature one staff member each day.
Today we feature Lara Eakins from the Department of Astronomy in the College of Natural Sciences. Stemming from her childhood dream of becoming an astronaut, Eakins pursued a degree in astronomy from UT.
Now for nearly 15 years, Eakins has helped support undergraduate education, conduct public outreach and operate a “fairly big, sizable telescope” at Robert Lee Moore Hall. “You know, this is actually kind of cool,” she said. “I get to do this. I get paid to do this!”
So whether it’s hosting star parties, fielding media calls or working with professors to develop course materials, no two days are ever the same for Eakins.
View more audio slideshows featuring university staff:
Hitting the high notes with Charles Ball
Inspiring change with Choquette Hamilton
Resources for People
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Lara -- Great video of you doing your great work! Congratulations to both you and Christina for such a fun show on what you are up to!
That was such a nice slide show and narration about what you do--I think a lot of us (like me) forget how you put into these activities, and how varied they are. So thanks--I'm glad I got to be reminded! (And thanks to whoever did such a fine job coordinating the beautiful photography with your narration--it was really a pleasure to view.)
It's great to see Lara's talents and efforts highlighted. She contributes so much to the educational mission of our Astronomy program, at all age and educational levels ranging from our undergraduate students to, apparently, infants! I'm sure it's also interesting for the general public to see what kinds of interesting things U.T. staff members do.
Great video. I have to say I am very impressed with your work Lara!