Name: Shirley Paquette
Occupation: Archives Technician
Date Hired: June 1985

What are all the titles you’ve held at OU?  Serials Assistant, Library Technician I, Library Technician II, Archives Technician

Where is your favorite spot on campus?  The Saints & Sinners fountain. During my first few years here during the summer I would sometimes sit on the ledge of the fountain, take my shoes off and put my feet in the water.  

What is your favorite memory on campus?  I have too many memories to name a favorite since I’ve been at OU for 40 years. It’s been fun attending ground breakings and building dedications; the campus has changed so much since 1985!   

What's something that may surprise students or alumni that University Archives has? When the Charter Class of 1963 graduated, Matilda Dodge Wilson gifted all 148 students with a gold OU insignia diamond accent ring and we are fortunate to have one in University Archives.  

What’s your proudest accomplishment as an employee at OU? Working in University Archives, answering questions about materials and artifacts.

What would you tell your former self starting at OU? The years are going to go fast and be filled with lots of memorable experiences. 

What is something unique about your position? I work in both the University Archives and the University Libraries Collection Support Services Department.

Did you have a specific moment where you knew you'd be staying at OU for your career? As I got older, life events happened: getting my first apartment, marriage and having a child. Staying at OU felt like the right decision for me and my family. I have always felt I belonged here and I guess that sealed the deal for me.