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Tony Filholm, general service supervisor for Facilities and Services, has been named �þ�����Ƶ’s Civil Service Employee of the Month for July. 

He will be honored at a reception held from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Friday, July 18, in the Facilities and Services commons. 

Having worked at SDSU for more than 38 years, Filholm is well known across campus for his ability to get things done, his initiative and fun attitude, and his unwavering support of everything that happens at SDSU. 

Amy Jones, director of campus maintenance services, said Filholm is a campus locksmith and has incredible knowledge of the unique field. He sets himself apart in other ways, too. 

“His initiative and leadership are unmatched. There aren’t boundaries in terms of not doing something because it’s ‘someone else’s’ job. He jumps in and addresses whatever he sees is needed, whenever,” Jones said. 

“He is here to work and work hard. His speed is go, and he doesn’t stop. Also, I really appreciate his leadership to solve problems, inform pertinent stakeholders, make improvements and find solutions,” she added. 

Jones also complimented Filholm and his team on the way they handle difficult jobs of asbestos abatement and moving whatever is needed, including items that are heavy, awkward, unbalanced, sensitive and fragile. “It doesn’t matter — he finds a way to do it.” 

Troy Syhre, director of custodial services, called Filholm an invaluable asset with an exceptional work ethic and initiative, and a problem-solver with a can-do attitude. 

“He does not simply meet expectations — he exceeds them with consistency,” Syhre said. “One of Tony’s most remarkable qualities is his ability to anticipate needs, moves and events and act without being asked. He approaches each challenge with a solutions-oriented mindset, often taking the lead on projects.” 

Senior building maintenance workers Robert Pavek and Kevin Hanson praised Filholm’s helpfulness and friendly attitude. 

“We like to call him ‘Mr. SDSU.’ He is always looking out for the university and its welfare,” Pavek said. 

Hanson added, “I have gained a wealth of knowledge from Tony as well as witnessed him helping others with a variety of problems and creating on-the-spot solutions.” 

Filholm has two daughters, Mariah and Delilah, and a son-in-law, Tomas. He enjoys spending time with his grandkids, Reagan, Branson and Waylen, as well as participating in shooting sports, hunting and woodworking. He’s a member of the Big Sioux Bowmen, the Beacon Hill Rifle and Pistol Club and the South Dakota Bowhunters Association. 

Jones offered another example of Filholm’s generosity and skill being gifted to SDSU. 

“On his own time, Tony has crafted (from scratch) three beautiful walnut podiums to replace aging ones. The podiums were used during the 2025 commencement, and he is currently making one more for athletics!” Jones said. 

“It is an honor to work for the people of this great state and to be a part of the university team,” Filholm said. 

All SDSU Employee of the Month selections are determined through a nomination process by the Civil Service Advisory Council. Each civil service employee of the month receives an appreciation monetary gift from the F.O. Butler Foundation. The trustees of the foundation recognize the importance of civil service employees and take this opportunity to thank them for their exemplary service.