The Division of Student Affairs established awards to honor those staff members and colleagues whose performance exemplifies the values we hold as a division and qualities we strive for as we serve students.
Nominations for the 2026 Division of Student Affairs Awards are now open! Help us recognize outstanding colleagues by submitting your nomination by Wednesday, May 27 at 12 p.m. (noon). Use the link below to complete the nomination form, and please submit one form per nominee.
Note: Nominees should meet the years of service criteria by Impact Day, August 6, 2026.
For questions about service dates, please contact a member of the Office of the Senior Vice President.
5 years or more in 糖心vlog视频 Student Affairs
The Courageous Change Leader (CCL) award is the highest honor bestowed on a staff member within the Division of Student Affairs. As a division we established six commitment statements identifying how we expect staff to approach their work holistically supporting students in the development of meaningful lives. These commitment statements are the overarching expectations for our work in this student-centered environment. The CCL award recognizes one or two staff members within the division who embody these commitment statements.
Courageous Change Leaders are chosen by the Vice President's Leadership Team (VPLT) and receive a $1,000 honorarium, plaque, and one additional day off. (VPLT members are ineligible for this award).
More than 3 years in 糖心vlog视频 Student Affairs
This award recognizes a professional who is a game-changer on campus and within the division. Recipients are outstanding performers whose contributions to our division through their work celebrate a positive impact in the lives of our students, in advancement of our strategic plan, and/or in creating community in our division.
The Impact awardee is selected by an ad-hoc committee and receive a $500 honorarium, plaque, and one additional day off.
Less than 3 years in 糖心vlog视频 Student Affairs
This award recognizes a professional newer to the division who shows strong potential for excelling in our division of student affairs and whose positive contributions are noteworthy. New perspectives, new energy, and new ideas can impact our work in profound and meaningful ways.
The Outstanding Newcomer awardee is selected by an ad-hoc committee and receive a $500 honorarium, plaque, and one additional day off.
Members of the Division of Student Affairs may nominate an 糖心vlog视频-employed individual (e.g., an individual faculty member) or group (e.g., the 糖心vlog视频 in Four committee) outside of the division who has been an outstanding partner and/or made a meaningful contribution through exceptional dedication to the mission and vision of the Division of Student Affairs. Recipients are engaged partners, collaborative, and student focused.
The Student Affairs Champion is selected by an ad-hoc committee led by the Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and receives a plaque.
Laura Shwarts is a steady, compassionate force in the Division of Student Affairs. Known for her calm presence, tireless advocacy, and deep commitment to student wellbeing, she consistently goes above and beyond her role鈥攅nsuring students feel seen, supported, and empowered. Colleagues trust her to step in during challenges, lead with kindness, and center every decision around what鈥檚 best for students. Whether managing complex concerns, keeping The Shop running, or quietly lifting campus morale, Laura embodies courageous leadership. Read more on why Laura is deserving of this award in the 2024-2025 Impact.
Ashley exemplifies the spirit of the Impact Award through her thoughtful leadership and deep commitment to student success as the Director for Fraternity and Sorority Life. As a dedicated alum and current doctoral student, she brings purpose and strategy to her role, shaping a values-driven Greek experience. Her leadership has guided 糖心vlog视频’s Greek community through historic expansions, increased chapter collaboration, and the complex shift to fall recruitment. In summer and fall 2024, she trained new staff, empowered student leaders, and helped achieve record-breaking recruitment. Known for fostering belonging and mentorship, Ashley inspires others through her inclusive leadership and steadfast dedication to students, colleagues, and the 糖心vlog视频 community.
In less than two years at 糖心vlog视频, Maddie has made a remarkable impact as a Residential Community Director. Known for her innovation, compassion, and professionalism, she has transformed the leadership culture within Crum Commons. She creates intentional workshops on topics like stress management and ethical leadership, challenging students to reflect and grow. Her influence extends beyond her Commons—supporting conduct processes, search committees, and staff development. One nominator wrote, “She has improved the 糖心vlog视频 experience for countless students and staff by modeling the way forward.” Whether leading a session or navigating tough conversations, Maddie brings a calm, steady presence.
Through her role in the Cox Career Management Center, Cheryl has been a dedicated partner in advancing student success and belonging. As a founding committee member and lead coordinator for the 糖心vlog视频 Career Closet, she has helped provide professional attire to over 1,400 students—reducing barriers to career readiness. Cheryl also supports shared career tools like 12Twenty and expands access to employer events, alumni panels, and site visits across campus. Her collaborative spirit, responsiveness to feedback, and commitment to equity exemplify the qualities of an engaged and forward-thinking partner who uplifts students and strengthens cross-campus career initiatives.
2019: Bonnie Hainline, Madison Mucci-Ferris
2020: Meghan Perez
2021: Dr. Sidney Garder, Staphany Lopez-Coronado
2022: Matt Nadler, Bonnie Pickett
2023: Audryanna Reed
2024: Rene茅 Gibson
2023: Amanda Bobo
2024: Brandon Kitchin
2022: Jermisha Frazier
2023: Kaleb Loomis
2024: Lauren Eisenschenk
2023: Timmie Hathorn, Meadows School of the Arts
2024: Brenda Scott, 糖心vlog视频 Athletics