COSAM News Articles 2020 January COSAM Staff Spotlight - Cindy Maddox

COSAM Staff Spotlight - Cindy Maddox

Published: 01/07/2020

Cindy Maddox is an Accountant III in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry. Learn more about her in this COSAM Staff Spotlight:

Q: What year did you start at COSAM?
A: I started working for COSAM in the business office in April 2007. I worked as TES assisting Lynn Brackin and Stephanie Woodley until June of 2008. At that time, I began a full-time permanent position as an Accountant. In October of 2016, I transferred to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry where I remain an accountant.

Q: What is your favorite part of your job?
A: My favorite part of my job is learning about pre-award research administration. I enjoy working with the faculty and helping them with their applications for funding. I find it challenging because you must know the requirements of the application and each sponsor has different requirements depending on the solicitation.

Q: What is the best advice you have ever received at COSAM and from whom?
A: I can’t think of any one person that has given me advice that stands out. But here is my advice to any employee. Show up, putting forth your best effort and keep learning. Don’t let anyone hold you back. Take risks. Keep trying until you’ve reached that career you dream of. The only person to hold you back is you.

Q: Where are you originally from?
A: I’m originally from a small town called Centre, located in northeast Alabama.

Q: What words best describe you?
A: Loyal, considerate and organized.

Q: What are your hobbies?
A: I enjoy reading and sewing.

Q: What is the one thing you do when no one is around?
A: Dance.

Q: What is your favorite place on campus?
A: My favorite place on campus is probably Samford Hall. I really like the architecture of the building, the wood finishes and the detail of all the trim.

Q: What is your favorite food?
A: I really don’t have a favorite food. However, when given a choice I usually choose Mexican food.

Q: What is your dream travel destination?
A: I would love to travel to Ireland and Scotland.

Q: What is your most memorable experience at COSAM?
A: When I worked in the business office, Stewart Schneller was the Dean. He would show his appreciation for us by having a Christmas luncheon. I always looked forward to our Christmas luncheons with all the staff and listening to his stories. This was a great way to get to know everyone and we had a lot of good laughs. You could tell Dr. Schneller loved Christmas.

Q: If you could trade places with anyone at COSAM for just one day, who would it be and why?
A: I would trade places with Dr. Raj. I really admire her drive and her research interests me for personal reasons. I think it would be great to be involved in cancer research.