Julia Maddox, director of the Barbara J. Burger iZone, is the 2018 recipient of the Martin E. Messinger Libraries Recognition Award for her outstanding leadership in developing the programming, staffing, and team for the newly created iZone, including university and community engagement, and contributing to the planning and implementation of the new iZone space.
Julia brought the vision and mission of iZone to life, developing a culture of continuous improvement, and committing to the benefits of iZone’s placement within a research library as a hub of innovation, something that is resonating locally and nationally. Over a year, she and her team made over 2,400 meaningful contacts with students as a variety of programs and services were piloted and prototyped. Working with iZone’s Community Manager, Grant Dever, Maddox fostered a peer-to-peer student leadership model which has leveraged the creativity, passion and talent of UR students. Julia demonstrated creativity, enthusiasm, and an openness to developing partnerships and collaboration.
"It's been a privilege to bring iZone's vision to life in collaboration with the River Campus Libraries' creative and collaborative team,” says Maddox. “I am thankful for this incredible acknowledgement of the trust and enthusiasm my colleagues have for iZone's work and I look forward to seeing what exciting projects are over the horizon!"
Mary Ann Mavrinac, vice provost and Andrew H. and Janet Dayton Neilly Dean of the University of Rochester Libraries believes that iZone’s success is a result of Julia’s passion and expertise.
“Julia has cultivated an inclusive environment, welcoming international students, and reaching out to partners at the university, locally and nationally to build the connections necessary for iZone’s sustainability and vibrancy,” says Mavrinac.
The annual Messinger Award honors contributions that advance the educational mission of the library or the library profession. A longtime supporter of the libraries, Martin E. Messinger provided support for the 1998 restoration of the Periodical Reading Room and the creation of two graduate student study rooms in 2010.
