Allison Marcum, secretary to the principal at Bryan Station High School (Fayette County), has received the 2016 Wanda Luttrell Office Professional Award, a statewide recognition from the Kentucky Association of School Administrators. This annual award, named in honor of KASA’s longtime office manager, goes to a school or district office professional who contributes significantly to the efforts of the leadership team; who is the pulse of the office; and who exhibits resourcefulness, commitment, professionalism and a positive attitude.

Marcum, who has been with Fayette County schools for three years, was described by Bryan Station High Principal James McMillin as the “compass for the day-to-day operations” at the school, which has more than 1,700 students and some 100 staff members. Marcum is the first point of contact for concerned parents, serves as a human resources liaison for the school’s employees, sends encouraging notes to colleagues, calls on staff who have been absent, covers for the receptionist and attendance clerk and interacts daily with students who need to see the principal or are seeking direction.

“I really love my job, and the teachers and students are amazing. I didn’t think I could handle the demands of a large, urban high school, but I have discovered I thrive in this environment. I love being able to help those around me be successful,” Marcum said.

Marcum is known for a whatever-it-takes mindset and offers up ideas for improvement and efficiency in all areas. She also helps develop new protocols for the administrative team to ensure their calendars are aligned to the school’s instructional goals.

“Allison has many attributes, but one I value most is her in-depth understanding of her job and that it exists to serve others,” McMillin said.