By Emily Andersen
The median number of years the average employee works for the same employer is 3.5 years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
But Ellen Allred is an exception to this statistic.
For 25 years Allred has worked within the Division of Continuing Education at BYU, and she said she does not plan on quitting any time soon.
In a Continuing Education award ceremony Wed., Feb. 27, Allred was awarded a University Service Award for her work at BYU.
'I have been so blessed to work in such a good place,' Allred said.
Allred said she has stayed for 25 years because of the satisfaction she gets from her job.
'I love knowing that what I do does make a difference,' Allred said.
Allred started at Continuing Education in 1972 and has worked with many different programs.
She has worked with the home study program for 10 years, which is currently called Independent Study.
She then served with Campus Education Week for 10 years. Allred took a short leave from Continuing Education to serve with the General Relief Society in Salt Lake.
Since she has returned to Continuing Education she has served shortly with Church Education System programs and is currently serving as the director of the Bachelor of General Studies program.
Kenneth Anderson, associate dean in the Division of Continuing Education says Allred is a wonderful employee.
'She is a capable, thorough and kindly person that has worked for Continuing Education in several capacities, learning and growing with each assignment,' Anderson said. 'Service is a central need of her life and she has given students and others large measures of academic support and counsel that has been very useful to them.'
Those who work with Allred enjoy her both professionally and personally.
'Professionally she is very innovative and always looking for ways to improve the program,' Susan Harrison, a colleague of Allred, said. 'She is always looking for ways to help students progress.'
Harrison said personally Allred is fun and thoughtful.
Darlene Willey, a secretary who works with the bachelor of general studies program, said Allred is a great boss and someone who likes to make the office a fun place to work.
'She is very tenderhearted,' Willey said. 'She is really good at showing appreciation and encouragement.'