Finding solutions to workplace challenges

One of our most valued colleagues, Human Resources senior manager Nakia Wade gets the spotlight in Columns:

In a college as large and diverse as Franklin, managing human resources matters can include everything from employee relations to hiring to compensation. But the most important part is being accessible to others and creating a space where issues are heard and discussed, and according to Wade, that means there is no typical day.

“We’re talking about people and their livelihoods,” she said. “I like the fact that human behavior is not predictable. We are all individuals coming from specific backgrounds and we respond to situations differently. So, every day you have no idea what is coming through the door. It keeps me on my toes.”

Wade’s background is in organizational behavior and coaching. She spent 14 years working at New York University, starting in career services at NYU’s School of Law where she facilitated recruitment fairs for students in the school’s LL.M. program. As she guided students in job preparation, their questions about the hiring process resonated with her. Spending time with the recruiters also taught her more about what they were looking for in candidates.

A truly extraordinary person, we are lucky to have Nakia on the leadership team in the Franklin College. It's great to see the campus community take notice and share on this important nexus for all of our work at the university. Human resources colleagues play a pivotal role in sustaining excellence at UGA.