Pixy's PPT

I can’t begin to imagine life at Mayo without Pixy - who will I turn to when I need information on things that happened at Mayo years ago- she had it all either in her head or in a 3-ring binder and labeled! I'll be in the dark… Lisa Clarke Division Chair Mayo Clinic Division of Public Affairs

From her entry to serve Patient Education to her time with Employee Communications, to her time with Quality, Pixy would jump in, figure it out and do it. Mayo's Identity Guidelines -- Pixy co-lead the original development of that initiative. A great editor of Mayo Today. Strategy, planning, writing, project management, leadership-- Pixy did it all proficiently and excellently. Suzanne Leaf-Brock Director of Communications Department of Development

Pixy is one of those rare people who is always sound and logical and never shows frustration. She always takes the 'high road' in everything and always sees the good in people. Pixy in my opinion is " One Class Act" and I will miss her dearly. Doreen K. Frusti, RN Chair, Department of Nursing

When I first began working on quality projects in the Department of Medicine, Pixy was an invaluable source of wisdom on several fronts. Since that time, whenever I've had a question on any topic, she has always been willing to take the time to share her knowledge, give me her opinion, and point me to other valuable resources. I will miss her kindness and encyclopedic knowledge about Mayo Clinic. Diane Joyce

“ After I began my job in Public Affairs a little over a year ago my friends would often ask me ‘How are things going?’ and I’d always say, ‘Terrific! How could they not go well when your boss is named Pixy?’ It’s true too. Pixy has a way of putting everything into perspective. She has been a wonderful “boss” (ahem, advisor) and mentor, always full of good advice and good council. When I’ve been in a pinch, she’s jumped right in and helped in any way she can. She has become a personal friend too – again, a great friend to talk to when I have my “single-mom moments”, she been there, done that, and is a wonderful role model. I will miss you very much Pixy, and I hope we work together again soon, perhaps in the community (l.ike, on the Art Center board!).” Fran Dickson Communication Consultant, Public Affairs

Take a wonderful wit and strong Mayo integrity, mix in generosity and a respected reputation for honesty and openness, then add a dash of humor - that's Pixy. I feel so privileged to have had the opportunity to work with Pixy - she is a gifted mentor and a terrific friend. I'll miss you! Deb Searles Communication Consultant, Public Affairs

It has been my great pleasure to work with Pixy for a number of years (like circles in a tree trunk, it marks our age!). Pixy leaves a legacy everywhere she has been. I have known, respected and admired her work at Mayo and in the community. Her astute questions and analytic ability made her a sought after Communications Consultant and that coupled with her political savvy made her an excellent moderator for the League of Women Voters events. Pixy has always been the poster child for independent and accomplished women. What I admire most about Pixy is her open approach to issues, but always with her ever ready tool kit stuffed with the proper personal requisites: intellectual curiosity, articulate, fair and witty to name but a few. Pixy is a perfect mentor, even when she doesn’t intend to be and you have to love that about a person. Pixy is a living example of one of my favorite quotes, Love many, trust a few, but always paddle your own canoe. Fondly, Karel Weigel p.s. Pixy, may you enjoy your retirement as much as I am enjoying mine.

Internal Communications Team 2008 - 2009

Before I came to Mayo Clinic, I worked at Wisconsin Public Television. WPT was a very different environment with a nonexistent dress code -- we wore jeans and very casual clothing. On my first day at Mayo, I came to work wearing my only pair of pantyhose and pumps determined to find a model of what a "Mayo woman" was supposed to look like. And there was Pixy -- perfectly attired in a suit (matching skirt and jacket), beautiful blouse, professional shoes, matching handbag, etc. So I set out to dress like Pixy, only to find out that I don't have the same ability to choose appropriate clothing or keep it together once I have it on. Over time, I have learned to ratchet my expectations for myself down to a more realistic part of the dress code -- but I still sigh in admiration and envy each time I see Pixy -- the model "Mayo woman.“ Jane Jacobs

I have learned more from Pixy than she realizes… she is a true professional, mentor, educator, historian, confidant, leader, communicator and friend. Lisa Clarke Division Chair Mayo Clinic Division of Public Affairs

I am sad that I only began to know Pixy about one year ago when she was selected to be my Mentor. She has an amazing wealth of knowledge and experience (and shelves full of really good books, too!). I continue to be impressed with her precise understanding, no matter the subject I present. Even though our meetings have been few, I have learned so much from her. Thanks, Pixy, for your listening skills, your words of wisdom, and your easy approach to life. May joy and happiness be yours each and every day! Marie Perhay

It has been a pleasure working with Pixy. She has been a mentor, colleague, fountain of knowledge, shoulder to cry on, restaurant and good wine resource, ride home when needed and most of all great friend. We will miss her tremendously. Best wishes in your retirement! Linda Donlin

Everyone needs a little Pixy-dust!

I was fortunate enough to be Pixy Russell’s assistant for ten years. What I saw/experienced during my time with Pixy was that she always had a smile on her face, treated everyone with respect and was available when needed. She was the go-to person for internal/staff communications and although she managed those activities by leading a pretty big team, she never micro managed or held individuals back. She was open to new ideas and changes and encouraged open and honest dialogue – which can take a fair amount of time when working with a bunch of editors – yikes! I enjoyed working with Pixy so much – and not just because she always brought me a present from her travels. I consider Pixy a great friend. Pixy, I hope you truly enjoy your retirement. Kris Schuchard

“ It is wonderful thing when you have the ability to go to your boss at any time, with any problem (big or small), and leave with a sense of ease, a better understanding and feel completely supported. I feel very lucky and privileged to have had the chance to work with Pixy. I know she will be incredibly missed… I mean, I miss her already, and I don’t even work there anymore. Have fun in Paris, Pixy” Ali Coates

Have you got this? Is this the sword you want to fall on? Rosie Cashman Communication Consultant, Public Affairs

Pixy was my first contact at Mayo as a prospective PA consultant. I was so impressed with her – her friendly and austere demeanor that immediately commanded my respect, the pristine-ness and the unique style of her office/cubicle. When she referred to sorting through a huge pile of incoming projects on her desk (neatly ordered) as “triaging them,” without a trace of stress or worry (and a sparkle of challenge and bravado in her eyes) - I knew I was sitting in a very important place, where noble and important work occurred daily – and in the presence of someone who reflected the best of the Mayo Clinic ideal. Pixy has been a quiet mentor to me and I’m sure all who know her. She is super smart, critical and savvy in the best of ways. She is a great leader, teacher, and colleague. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with you Pixy, and I wish you all the best in your retirement. Best wishes! Sue Fargo Prosser

I’ve been in some of the same Mayo meetings with Pixy where you weren’t quite sure what you were walking into or what the results would be. No matter what the group assembled would say, do or demand, Pixy would always be the voice of reason, knew what Public Affairs could and couldn’t help with, and she always had your back. In those difficult meetings, Pixy’s words and actions helped inexperienced colleagues like me feel as if she was saying, “Stick with me, kid, and we’ll get through this just fine.” Thanks, Pixy! Joe O’Keefe Communications Consultant, Public Affairs

I miss her already so until the day she actually leaves, I’m going to pretend she will be with us forever. Lisa Clarke Division Chair Mayo Clinic Division of Public Affairs

Pixy always encouraged her team to stretch and test our abilities. Her door was always open, she willingly shared her experience, considered alternative perspectives with an open mind, and celebrated individual successes. She has been the needle on the compass of Public Affairs that gave direction to our work and we'll miss her. Diane M. Wottreng Communication Consultant, Public Affairs

Internal Team Leader Medical Plan Changes Satisfaction Surveys Communications Audits (Who can forget the hours pondering the data?) She joined Mayo as “the” Patient Education Communications Consultant Leadership Writing All Staff / All Supervisor Meetings

Even in the short time that I have known Pixy, it's clear that she embodies many of the values that make Mayo Clinic such a wonderful place. Karl W. Oestreich Public Affairs Manager, Enterprise Media Relations

Memories of people and places go with you, will be remembered and cherished long into the future. You have touched many lives, extended the grace of your life to them and for this we say thank you. Your service to the Sponsorship efforts through your participation on the education committee, serving with you on other groups and just getting to know you as Pixy has been a gift to me and many who have enjoyed your expertise and your wonderful pixy sense of humor and enjoyment of life. Keep the light shining brightly and continue to share it with all of us aw we continue to pick your brain. We will find you in the crowd!!! Peace and all good to you. Sister Mary Elliot Crowley

There are many things I'm going to miss when Pixy is gone – her instant problem-solving ability, her willingness to listen to me with an open mind at any given moment, her constant vigilant integrity, but mostly, I'm going to miss Pixy's holiday team parties and retreats at her house. One year she prepared and served the most delectable chicken and rice with a variety of toppings (yogurt, raisins and shredded coconut). I remember the table being so beautifully set with formal dinnerware, there were several wines to choose from and everyone was in such a good mood and feeling conversational. She and Jim tell such great stories! I'm going to miss you Pixy! Ann Schauer Communication Consultant, Public Affairs

A woman with a strong and gentle voice - she knows her stuff in a big way but uses a gentle manner to help you understand. Lisa Clarke Division Chair Mayo Clinic Division of Public Affairs

I can only echo Mary Poppins' own sentiment: Pixy is practically perfect in every way!! I have been very blessed to have known her the short time I have been in Public Affairs. Her joyous smile that reaches her eyes, her quiet wisdom, and her perseverance through tough times has made a great impression on me. Lizann Williams

Pixy's PPT

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