Michael Sean Park, Value-Added Sustainable Development Center Program Manager for Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs (IIRA) at Western Illinois University, has been named the 2024 Al and Elaine Goldfarb Civil Service Employee of the Year.
Park has been an invaluable asset to WIU, demonstrating exceptional dedication to rural communities throughout Illinois. His passion for helping others and technical expertise has enabled him to successfully execute projects that significantly impact food access and community development. Park’s tireless work in securing grant funds for WIU has furthered these important efforts, underscoring his commitment to improving the lives of Illinois residents.
His nominator, John Bannon, highlighted Park's pivotal role in supporting rural communities, particularly in alleviating food insecurity. One of Park’s standout contributions has been his work with RISE Community Market in Cairo, where he collaborated with a range of partners—from residents to state and federal agencies—to establish a grocery store in a region without one since 2015. This initiative significantly improved the quality of life for residents, many of whom were facing financial hardships and had to travel over 10 miles for fresh food.
Park is often invited to share his expertise at conferences nationwide and beyond. He consistently advocates for WIU and showcases the university’s impact on rural development. His ability to represent WIU in such a positive light speaks to his unwavering commitment to both the university and the communities it serves.
The Al and Elaine Goldfarb Civil Service Employee of the Year Award was established in 2010 through an endowment created by the Goldfarbs. The WIU Foundation provides a $500 stipend for the annual Employee of the Year Award.
On behalf of the Civil Service Employees Council, congratulations to Michael Sean Park for his outstanding contributions to Western Illinois University and to the communities he serves.
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