JEFFERSON CITY, MO, JUNE 22, 2022 - Mari-Jo Wilkes, a human resources manager with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Administrative Support, has been selected as the department’s Team Member of the Month for June 2022. Wilkes was selected for her service to the department and for her efforts to lead team members through difficult processes.
Recently, a team member was injured while coming into the office. Wilkes helped the team member navigate the accident reporting process through the Central Accident Reporting Office and drove them to their doctor’s appointment. She also stayed with the team member to confirm they made it home safely and later followed up to make sure they were doing well.
Another example of her service to the department is when she assisted a team member who was dealing with a medical situation while in the process of retiring. Wilkes helped them fill out all of the necessary paperwork for MOSERS and MCHCP. She also helped them meet all their deadlines, going the extra mile to assist with contacting the Social Security Administration to arrange for benefits while continuing to reassure the team member during a highly stressful and emotional time.
Wilkes also is known to answer requests for assistance after hours, giving up her evenings to team members in need.
“Mari-Jo is a perfect example of someone who leads through service,” said Julie Littrell, the department’s human resources director, who nominated her for the award. “She remains calm under stressful and emotional circumstances and I’m thankful for her leadership in these difficult situations.”
Wilkes joined the department in August 1998 and resides in Holts Summit.