He is the living example of Western’s core values of integrity, respect and service, says the nomination letter written by three Visual Arts students for Ivan Celic.

Celic had been the caretaker in the Visual Arts building before his recent move to the Arthur & Sonia Labatt Health Sciences Building.

“He is always joking, smiling, even singing, and genuinely cares about the students and faculty members,” says the letter. “He not only engages in his work but with those around him. He always is willing to help students by helping them find ways in putting artwork up and carrying heavy objects. He does these things because he wants to help even though it is not required of him.”

The Visual Arts Department threw a surprise party for the Croatian caretaker when he became a Canadian citizen, something that demonstrated how much he is appreciated by the students and faculty.

“We can honestly say that Ivan has improved not only our university experience, but also the experience of all those lives he has touched at Western,” ends the nomination letter.

The father of a three-year-old daughter says Western is an amazing place and enjoys being around people he feels are like his second family.

“I am so happy somebody respects my job,” he says. “I try to make everybody happy – give them an easier life. I like to help, even if it not my job.”

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Contact Information

.: Scott May
Campus Communications Consultant
(519) 661-2111 x85466 or smay5@uwo.ca