Drake’s All Staff Council Recognition Committee recently celebrated the Sponsored Programs team with a surprise treat delivery, compliments of Drake Dining. The following spotlight provides a few facts about the Sponsored Programs Department. Thank you to the team for everything they do to make Drake a great place!

How many staff members are in the department?
Four staff member make up the department: Director, Mary Wohlford, Ph.D., director; Tracy Bainter, MPA, ABD, pre-award and compliance; Kristine Plagman, senior accountant; and Tricia Atterberg, accountant.

What is the primary function of the team?
Develop grant proposals with university stakeholders, ensure grant dollars are spent correctly, and provide oversight for human subjects research and animal care and use.

Do you have a mission/vision/motto?
Our Mission is to provide pre-award, post award, and research compliance services.

Informal Mottos: “inspire and achieve”, “it’s all good, it’s all good”, “inspire success”. There are moments when we say, “making the impossible possible”, “turning fantasy into reality”, “get it done,” and  my personal favorite “your monkey, your circus.”

Who has been with the team the longest?
Kristine Plagman has served seven years in the Sponsored Programs department and 11 years at Drake.

Who is the newest team member?
Tricia Atterberg started in the department in August 2018.

What campus buildings do your team members “live” in?
Old Main, Penthouse

What are some recent challenges and accomplishments of note?
There are very few challenges, many accomplishments—the most notable is the increase we have seen in funded grants.

Anything else noteworthy about your department?
“My good colleagues are the most dedicated, kind individuals I have ever worked with.” –Mary Wohlford

Cathy Williams, All Staff Council Recognition Committee