Regular visitors to Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field or Tucker Coliseum know Judie Dyer from her role as a member of the athletic facilities staff at Arkansas Tech University.
One person knows Dyer as something even more — a lifesaver.
Dyer was recently recognized by the Russellville Fire Department (RFD) for her role in saving the life of a fellow diner at a local restaurant.
In a letter from Capt. Christopher Vick of the RFD, Dyer was commended for helping the individual in distress to the floor, assessing her condition, helping her regain consciousness and assisting her back to a seated position until first responder units could arrive on the scene.
“We always enjoy seeing the people of Russellville helping other citizens in a time of crisis and acting as a Good Samaritan,” wrote Vick in the letter, which was sent to Arkansas Tech President Dr. Robin E. Bowen. “It is people like Judie Dyer that really help make a difference. The patient was having a serious medical condition and had it not been for Mrs. Dyer, it could have been much worse.”
Dyer, who has past experience working in hospitals, said that she only did what anyone else would have done in her position.
“She yelled for help and I was there,” said Dyer. “The glory goes to God. We’re all part of one body. It took all of us as a team working together that day. That’s what life is. It’s about team.”
Bowen responded to Vick’s letter by expressing the institution’s appreciation for the Russellville Fire Department and its efforts on behalf of area citizens.
“Arkansas Tech University is committed to providing service excellence to not only our students and customers, but also to our constituents and fellow faculty and staff members,” wrote Bowen. “It is evident that Mrs. Dyer embraces this service excellence mentality both on and off the Arkansas Tech University campus.”
