Billie Jo: An artist with thread

No one is better at promoting the MSU brand than Billie Jo Wilburn.

Wilburn, the embroidery specialist in the Culinary Services division of Spartan Linen Services, has embroidered apparel for the campus community for over 20 years. 

“In all my many years of service, I have not met anyone who has received more thank-you notes from customers than Billie Jo,” said Donna Svendsen, a supervisor. “As our embroidery specialist, she has done countless special and squeezed-in orders for customers who needed something embroidered for a special occasion.”

Billie Jo starts work at 6 a.m. by looking over orders to get an understanding of clients’ requests. Customers love her attention to detail and creative input. Billie Jo is quick to make suggestions that will improve results. 

“It is a delight to see her eyes light up when she is working on a new colorful piece to enhance an ordinary design,” said Service Manager Michelle Moench.

To be an embroidery specialist, “you must have steady hands, patience and, most importantly, an eye for details,” Billie Jo said. Throughout her many years of doing embroidery at MSU, she appreciates that Spartan Linen management is quick to adopt new equipment, which allows her to be on the cutting edge of her craft. 

“I’ve put MSU logos and text on over a million items, and I’m proud of that!”