University of Iowa’s CAMBUS recognizes Rose Arrigoni as the 2022 Driver of the Year. Transit service providers across Iowa annually each nominate an employee to be honored by the Iowa Public Transit Association (IPTA) for their commitment to providing safe and friendly service.
Arrigoni has worked with CAMBUS since October 2020. She provides a positive influence within the workplace and has proven herself to be an exemplary employee and co-worker. "During a year that brought forth significant challenges to CAMBUS, Rose really stepped up. Not only does she foster a friendly and inviting workplace, but she’s known for driving commuter routes – shifts that get healthcare workers to and from work. The significance of our commuter services has been elevated since the start of the pandemic," wrote the selection team.
“It is really exciting to be chosen as the 2022 Driver of the Year. I love being able to help the community through CAMBUS,” stated Arrigoni. “I would love to keep working in public service like this in the future, so it’s certainly encouraging to hear that my efforts are paying off.”
“I would love to keep working in public service like this in the future, so it’s certainly encouraging to hear that my efforts are paying off.”
Arrigoni is currently a fourth-year student working towards a major in English and Creative Writing with a minor in Criminology and Sociology. She describes driving as a time to clear her mind and allows her to come back to course work with her thoughts more organized or new solutions. “Working for CAMBUS is a great balance with my schoolwork; it gives me time to just step away and do work that I find a little more fun.” explained Arrigoni. “Driving is engaging, but in a completely different way.”
After driving a few routes and gaining a better understanding of the services, many student drivers find a particular route they enjoy driving. “A personal favorite route of mine is 51 Hospital-Finkbine/Arena. It’s quick, it’s snappy, and there’s certainly never a dull moment, at least during peak service,” expressed Arrigoni.
Arrigoni is an excellent example of what makes CAMBUS successful - the dedicated employees that go the extra mile to create a community. "Rose is well-known for her model safety record and being willing to pick up extra work to help out a coworker or to fill uncovered work,” added the selection team.
“If you’re thinking about applying for CAMBUS, absolutely go for it! Driving a bus isn’t as intimidating as it sounds, the people you get to work with are great, and the hours are really flexible,” says Arrigoni.
Honorable Mentions
In reviewing the Driver of the Year 2022 candidates, the selection team also wishes to recognize three student drivers as honorable mentions:
- Miguel Jacobo, driver
- Keaton Murphy, bionic driver
- Reece Sommers, bionic driver
The selection team noted that Sommers, Murphy, and Jacobo all contribute positive and friendly attitudes, their dependability, and overall great work records.
About the Driver of the Year award
The Iowa Public Transit Association (IPTA) recognizes a driver from each Iowa public transit agency annually for their service to local communities. IPTA sets minimum criteria drivers must meet to be eligible for the award. Each public transit agency then uses their own process to select a driver to be honored.
Criteria for award eligibility includes work record, attendance, and safety record. The CAMBUS management and student supervisor team evaluate the list of eligible candidates to select an overall award winner. The CAMBUS team looks at factors such as previous recognitions received throughout the year, feedback from other staff, and their contributions to creating an inclusive and positive workplace experience.
About CAMBUS
CAMBUS is the University of Iowa’s student operated, no fare public transit system that provides fixed-route service throughout campus and demand-response paratransit services for qualifying persons. On average, 160 student-employees operate transit services across the university campus. Their responsibilities begin with driving but can grow to include training, dispatching, assisting with maintenance, and supervising.
CAMBUS works in collaboration with other Parking and Transportation Department units to provide and support access and mobility for students, faculty, staff, patients, and visitors. For more information about our services visit the CAMBUS page or call 319-335-8633.