Interview by Laura Wise, APA Executive Board
This issue of the APA Newsletter features Kaye L. Boucher. She serves as Human Resources Administrator in the Veterinary Medicine Dean’s Office
How long have you been at MSU?
I will be celebrating nine years with MSU at the end of this month. I am very appreciative that I had the opportunity to work as a human resources specialist in the central Human Resources office for my first seven years with the University. This role allowed my to gain a broad perspective of University operations and build valued relationships with a network of human resources and business professionals across the University. Two years ago, I was excited to be offered the opportunity to join the College of Veterinary Medicine in a human resources generalist role. This position allows me to build upon and broaden my knowledge and skills across all areas of human resources.
Have you been a member of APA the whole time?
Yes, I have been an APA member for the full nine years. My role in human resources has allowed me to appreciate my APA membership from a different perspective than most members. In my role, I have had the opportunity to work with and witness the passion that the APA leadership has for its members and the MSU community. I have had the opportunity to partner with Maury Koffman to make sure a member receives the best possible placement opportunity after a layoff. I have worked with Nick Bourland on the winter coat drive to benefit the MSU community, and I have had difficult, yet respectful, conversations with Melissa Sortman to make sure we have a mutually beneficial outcome for the APA member and the department.
Can you tell me a little bit about what you do?
As human resources manager for the College of Veterinary Medicine, I partner with college leadership and unit human resources and business officers to develop and implement human resources programs, policies and procedures that support the mission and strategic direction of the college. This includes serving as an internal consultant to faculty, staff and administrators in areas relating to employee relations, recruitment, performance management, employee development, compensation, work flow and process analysis, regulatory compliance and other human resources programs, policies and initiatives.
What brought you to your job at MSU?
I grew up in the greater Lansing area and graduated from Michigan State, so I already had a strong affiliation with MSU and understood the broad impact it had on the community and beyond. There was no question that working for MSU would be a source of pride for me.
What do you love about working at MSU?
There are so many things to note, but it is all about the range and diversity of opportunities, such as the opportunity to:
• work in a supportive environment that promotes work/life balance
• participate in training for career development/advancement and access e-learning programs 24 hours per day, 7 days a week
• work among leading scholars, scientists and researchers
• take a scenic walk through campus on your lunch hour or participate in Health4U programs
• join your co-workers in supporting special needs on campus or reaching out to the community
• collaborate with colleagues across campus to improve a process or reach a common goal
What do you like to do when you are not at work?
I am a home body, so I enjoy taking care of my home and spending time with my husband, three boys, and extended family. Many of our gatherings or weekend getaways are centered around sporting events, including MSU and community athletic events, watching hockey, and playing golf.