As a member of the Transylvania University marketing and communications team, John Friedlein typically writes stories instead of serving as their subject. Friedlein was recently honored with the October 2022 Essential Piece Award, given to staff members who go above and beyond for the good of the institution by the university’s Staff Engagement Team.
Although Friedlein is responsible for content creation of all kinds as the team’s social media manager and writer, his nominator specifically cited Friedlein’s work in compiling and sending the daily TNotes email as essential to keeping campus informed about upcoming events.
While the work he does is critical, what truly sets Friedlein apart is the positive and friendly attitude with which he does it. His nomination characterized him as “a very kind, considerate and helpful colleague who checks in when needed” and remarked that “his patience, understanding and grace when it comes to deadlines is always appreciated.”
Friedlein has been part of the Transylvania team since January 2013, previously working as a newspaper reporter. He enjoys working with his colleagues and has a genuine appreciation for the liberal arts mission of the university, noting that the students are impressive and the school’s emphasis on interdisciplinary study fosters their creativity.
“Often, I’m amazed at the things that happen at our university — to see our PumpkinMania display on ‘Good Morning America’ or to hear that we’re among the top 10 liberal arts colleges in the nation for community service,” Friedlein said, noting that it’s easy to promote an institution where such exciting things happen regularly.
Friedlein enjoys the craft of telling stories, both in written and visual mediums. “I like to write things that people will enjoy reading and take photos that will help tell stories and are pleasing to look at,” he said, explaining that he sees his work as a potential time capsule for future Pioneers to enjoy. “We’re kind of recording history, in a way.”