COD's Linda Wanden named Outstanding Business Partner

College of DuPage Custodial Operations Manager Linda Wanden recently was named an Outstanding Business Partner by the DuPage Area Partnership for College and Career Success.

Wanden was recognized for her expertise and management skills in caring for the College's facilities and for her sensitivity to and advocacy for hiring individuals with disabilities.

The award was presented during the 13th annual Power of Partnerships Awards Celebration and Wanden was one of 19 Outstanding Business Partners selected.

“I believe everyone has a strength,” the Elgin resident said. “Sometimes you just have to find it. I started my career at ServiceMaster, and the company's philosophy was everyone can be developed. It's still my philosophy.”

Wanden started at COD three years ago and oversees a team of workers, several who are disabled. The goal, she said, is to find what each individual is good at and put those skills to work for the larger community – in this case the College.

For Wanden, the Outstanding Business Partern award is humbling, but a positive reinforcement for the attitude she's taken toward her job and those who work with her.

“From over 20 years in this field, I have so many success stories,” she said. “The award is a wonderful surprise because it shows the good work we're doing here.”