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UTPD Security Guard Powell Receives Library Award for Service

Community Service Officer Sean PowellA UTPD civilian security guard has been recognized for his exemplary service to UT Libraries.

Community Service Officer Sean Powell recently received the 2021 Paul E. Trentham, Sr., Library Partner Award, which celebrates a member of the UT campus community who has made a positive and substantial impact on the UT Libraries. The award includes a plaque and monetary prize.

Libraries’ staff selected Powell for the award for “continuing to provide excellent service to the UT Libraries faculty and staff and our patrons through the multiple pandemics facing our society,” according to the nomination.

Powell also “has kept a level head while facing adversity,” the nomination said. Most notable was Powell’s calm demeanor and quick response to assisting a student who was experiencing a medical emergency. He provided essential supportive care until first responders arrived on the scene.

“UT Libraries and the University of Tennessee are thankful and appreciative to have (Powell) serving the university faculty, staff, students, and visitors each day,” the nomination said.

Libraries Dean Steve Smith added: “We really value Sean, and we’re thrilled we could recognize him with this award.”

Powell has served the university for 23 years, 21 of which have been as a community service officer at UTPD.