Maria Mangieri is Staff Member of the Year at Liberty Middle School. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Thousands and thousands of people have been greeted and assisted by a smiling face and helpful personality in the front office at Liberty Middle School. That persona belongs to Maria Mangieri.

Mangieri has earned the title of 2014 Staff Member of the Year at Liberty.

Mangieri works as a clerical aide in Liberty’s front office. Regardless of the telephone call, Mangieri usually can answer questions without hesitation, calming an inquisitive parent or supplying information in business-related matters from community residents.

“I love my job at Liberty Middle School,” Mangieri said. “Working in the front office gives me the opportunity to help parents, students and teachers.” Mangieri is known for a consistent, cheerful attitude in dealing with the public.

Mangieri earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish at the University of Texas in Arlington. “I am married to Alivio Mangieri. He works as an engineer for the U.S. Army at Redstone Arsenal,” she said.

The Mangieris have three daughters. Leandra Mangieri, 26, is completing a doctorate’s degree in neuroscience at the University of Texas – Health and Science in Houston.

Sabrina Mangieri is 24 years old and is obtaining her doctorate degree in physical therapy at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Daniela Mangieri, 20, is studying chemical engineering at Auburn University.

Mangieri is very appreciative of her new title as Staff Member of the Year. “I am blessed to be able to (help parents and the student population), and I am very appreciative for the recognition received,” she said.