[143] ASCE members 'support each other' through professional development workshops

Unsung heroes on campus in many ways, MTSU’s Association of Secretarial and Clerical Employees keeps offices around MTSU running like well-oiled machines thanks to professional development and peer support.

"We're like the gatekeepers, motivators, and organizers … we set the tone in the office," said incoming ASCE President Sherry Fuller, executive secretary for University College Dean Rick Sluder.

The group encourages professional and personal development while providing opportunities to network within the organization through events, such as its recent fall reception held in Cantrell Hall inside the Tom H. Jackson Building.

"I just want them to know how important they are because the ASCE is designed to help everybody," Fuller said.

Along with moral support, ASCE hosts various fundraisers throughout the year — such as its current nut sale, with proceeds going toward scholarships for members interested in taking the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) exam geared toward office and administrative professionals.

"The test is for members who've been in ASCE for at least one year, so there are benefits to being (certified)," she said. "If they pass, they receive a nine percent raise on their check."

Now going on 10 years as secretary for dean of University College, Fuller said her No. 1 goal in leading ASCE as president is spreading kindness.

"Kindness is always fashionable," she said. 

What else is fashionable? Appropriate fashion for the workplace. As part of its Sept. 21 Fabulous Fun Fall Reception, ASCE held a fashion show to remind members that first, second and even third impressions can matter on the job.

ASCE invited Jones College of Business professor Virginia Hemby-Grubb as the keynote speaker for the reception to share what is and isn't appropriate in a professional setting. Hemby-Grubb is founder of the Raiders’ Closet, which provides free professional attire to students for job interviews and professional settings.

Fuller said Hemby-Grubb’s presentation added a different flavor to the mix of the organization’s five annual events.

"Instead of just eating together and winning door prizes, I thought let's start getting guest speakers and learn something," Fuller said.

Hemby-Grubb, a Department of Marketing faculty member, presented how to dress in an office environment using MTSU employees from different departments as models to display a few do's and don'ts of professional attire.

"Secretaries and clerical staff are the backbone of this institution," Hemby-Grubb said. "I wanted them to gain that understanding through sharing laughter and watching our models put themselves on the spot to showcase their appearances."

For more information about ASCE, contact Fuller at 615-898-2177 or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/asce/index.php.