35 Years of Service: Elynda Bedney

Assistant Vice President, Office of Student Financial Services

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It is my pleasure to congratulate Elynda Bedney for 35 years of service to Andrews University. I have really come to enjoy working with her during the time I have been at the University. She has always displayed a loving attitude to those she works with in the Office of Student Financial Services. During those years she has worked with many people. One of those was a student from some years back who was inspired to come and work for Elynda a few years ago. She displays a lifestyle that many want to duplicate.

One thing that is really enjoyable is attending a potluck that she and her team organize every so often in their office. It is such a wonderful experience where one almost has to be rolled out in a wheelchair because of the fantastic selection of a wide variety of wonderful food. She seems to make sure I know when they are happening! When the holiday season approaches, Elynda always makes sure that I receive a homemade sweet potato pie. Oh, there is nothing like a fresh homemade sweet potato pie! She has a secret recipe that is just wonderful.

Elynda’s team is a group of individuals who all work together to make the financial experience for the students at Andrews University go as smoothly as possible. Elynda’s mentorship and staff training is what makes this possible. They work well as a team and that is a sign of her great leadership. Sometimes they may have challenges in working with a particular student, but the team does it with compassion and caring for that student, based on Elynda’s example. One of her employees has said that “Elynda is an awesome leader. Our SFS team is truly a work family with her at the helm. She is also a great communicator and mentor to our students, going above and beyond to serve.” I couldn’t agree more.

If you really want to see her face light up, just ask about her grandbabies. The pictures come out and the stories begin of their exploits. She really enjoys visiting her sons and their wives, but the truth is she wants to see those grandbabies and be GRANDMA!

Elynda, thank you again for all that you do for Andrews University, I really appreciate you. Congratulations, 35 years is quite an achievement, and I cannot wait to be able to write a tribute for 40 years of service for you.