Sonya Dexter, an exceptional individual who is an invaluable member of the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, holds over three decades of dedicated service with the department. With unwavering dedication and a relentless pursuit of growth and innovation, Dexter continues to play a pivotal role in the department’s success. Currently, Dexter serves as an accounting assistant, leveraging her financial expertise and attention to detail.
About Sonya Dexter
Joining EPP in 1990, Dexter started her professional journey as a word processor, diligently typing every document that passed through the department. From typing typewriter forms to interoffice memos, book chapters, and class materials, Dexter played an instrumental role in ensuring seamless communication within the organization. In those days, email had not received approval for business communications, and cell phones were far from becoming universal.
However, with a changing landscape on the horizon, Dexter’s talent and adaptability shone through as she embraced the emerging field of web development. Mastering HTML coding, she skillfully crafted innovative webpages that added a new dimension to the department’s digital presence.
In 2008, Dexter embarked on a new path and transitioned into an accounting role despite her initial hesitation toward numbers. Undiscouraged by the challenges, she swiftly adapted to her new responsibilities and continues to excel in crucial tasks such as managing timesheets, generating ledger reports, and providing indispensable support to the Graduate Director, Graduate Studies Committee, and SPAC Committee. Additionally, Dexter fearlessly tackles the often-daunting realm of travel arrangements.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Dexter transitioned to remote work. With her introverted nature, the shift to remote work proved to be pleasing, eliminating her daily two-hour commute to campus. “I love it! It has been a real blessing,” said Dexter. In the company of her mother and uncle, Dexter enjoys the companionship of her beloved four-legged and feathered friends—a dog, two cats, and a bird.
Known for her dry sense of humor and straightforwardness, Dexter’s authentic personality shines through. While not everyone may immediately grasp her wit, her colleagues have come to appreciate her genuine nature. In a lighthearted tale from her early days at EPP, Dexter nearly jeopardized her chance of employment when she answered a job offer call on her birthday with the unexpected greeting, “Your quarter!” The confusion quickly transformed into admiration as Dexter’s dedication and exceptional skills won over the department head and the entire team.
EPP acknowledges Dexter’s transformative journey and applauds her adaptability, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Her remarkable skills and exceptional dedication continue to significantly impact the department and its mission. EPP extends its heartfelt appreciation to Dexter for her outstanding contributions and looks forward to her continued success as an integral member of the team.