With more than 25 years of service at VCU, including 15 years at the Wilder School, Tina Braden is recognized for excellence with the 2025 VCU Building Manager’s Award.

When it comes to getting things done — and getting them done quickly — Tina Braden is the one who makes it happen. Whether ensuring that classrooms are ready for use, coordinating maintenance teams, or navigating unexpected challenges, her work as a building manager soars far beyond overseeing facilities.

Braden is often the first to respond when something goes awry in the Wilder School buildings, whether it’s a fire alarm, an elevator malfunction, or an unexpected guest paying a visit. No matter the situation — or crisis — she keeps calm and carries on with a steadfast demeanor and commitment to support anyone and everything.

With testimonials from 25 colleagues, it’s no surprise that she was a shoo-in for selection as the 2025 building manager of the year for the Monroe Park campus. The VCU Building Manager Awards recognize building managers who have gone above and beyond their responsibilities to serve building occupants and the VCU community, demonstrate the values of VCU, and address the needs of the buildings they serve.

“I like all the people I meet. It's like a big family as you get to know individuals on a personal level as well as work.
We work as a team. I don't have a problem asking for something that may be out of the norm as I feel they only have two answers, yes or no. I always justify why I think it should be one way or another. It doesn't mean I will get my way.” – Tina Braden

Ever the unflappable logistician, Braden knows how to call in support with her extensive network of VCU facilities staff. They’re relationships that go back more than two dozen years. 

“Her respect for others and unwavering professionalism set her apart. Tina is a true asset, bringing together expertise and a genuine care for the people and the school’s legacy,” said L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of Virginia.

Braden is truly an institution in her own right. She sets a welcoming and can-do tone for those around her and then snaps into action to accomplish unplannable and often insurmountable challenges that come with day-to-day operations. It’s a frequently Herculean effort in support of more than 200 faculty, staff and student workers. 

"Tina Braden is the heartbeat of the Wilder School—a dedicated leader who never hesitates to go above and beyond for her colleagues, students, and community,” said Susan Gooden, dean of the Wilder School. 

“From navigating emergencies with grace to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all, Tina's impact is felt in every corner of our school. Winning the VCU Building Manager’s Award is a testament to her exceptional commitment, professionalism, and care. This well-deserved honor reflects the impact of her work, which elevates the Wilder School and supports our mission every day."

Braden’s knack for cultivating and nurturing relationships is the key to her success. If you know her, you know there are the official channels, and then there are the Tina channels. She keeps a strong pulse on activity, frequently walking through the buildings and checking in with her folks. It’s often these informal conversations where she learns about issues or requests that might otherwise go unnoticed. “I probably know more about the buildings I manage at VCU than I know about my house,” she declared.

“I don't mind helping out if I can when I request something, as I learn as well. For example, I used to watch the late Drew Bedner inspect building projects and he would show me what to look for in inspecting contractors’ work in the building. He even gave me a flashlight like the one he had.  I still have it. I used those skills at a friend's home that was getting built.”

Her kindness and comradery extend far beyond a nine-to-five. 

“It doesn’t hurt to show folks that you appreciate them, as we all have a job to do. ‘Thank you’ is great, but I may take it a little further. I may make cookies for you, cook a meal for the team or buy pizza and refreshments as we work on the weekend. I like my job and the people I work with.”