Division of Student Affairs awards celebrate staff contributions

Ohio University's Division of Student Affairs held its Annual Year-End Celebration on May 7, honoring exemplary staff members and recognizing their contributions to the University community.

The event, which took place at the Ping Recreation Center Patio, was an opportunity to not only celebrate the end of the academic year, but also recognize those who go above and beyond to make the OHIO experience all that it is.

Vice President for Student Affairs Lyn Redington addressed the attendees, expressing her gratitude for the dedication and hard work of the division's staff.

"I said to a group of students last week – I firmly believe that my entire career has led me to be at OHIO, at this moment in time,” she said. “I feel so fortunate to serve our amazing students and work with such an incredible team of professionals." The celebration included a variety of awards, ranging from fun superlatives to significant recognitions of professional excellence.

There were more than 113 nominations for awards, recognizing exceptional contributions to student affairs by colleagues in the division and across the University. While some awards recognized professional milestones, others highlighted the collaboration that is integral to OHIO's collective success and the vibrant community we foster at Ohio University.

Award winners

Mentor of the Year

• Becky Conrad Davenport
• Becky Conrad Davenport is someone staff seek out for her mentorship. She provides invaluable guidance to staff, trainees, and students alike.

Lasting Action Award

• Makenzie Olaker
• Makenzie Olaker has significantly advanced engagement with parents and families, enhancing communication and support through initiatives like the Bobcat Family Council.

New Professional Award

• Kailyn Lamm
• In her first few years, Kailyn Lamm has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, particularly in supporting second-year and commuter students.

Mid-Career Professional Award

• Dane Bennett
• Dane Bennett has served the Division of Student Affairs for over five years and has consistently shown strong leadership and commitment to student success.

Intersectional Collaboration Award

• Chris Owens
• Upon stepping foot on campus, it was apparent that Chris Owens has a passion for creating the best experience for our students through the enhancement of our residential portfolio. 

Outstanding Contributions for Customer Service Award

• Mandy Uribe and Tammy Andrews
• Both recipients were recognized for their unwavering dedication to providing excellent service and support to students and colleagues.

Faculty Staff Contribution Award

• Barb Nalazek
• Barb Nalazek, from Legal Affairs, was honored for her significant contributions to the Division's goals and activities.

Additional awards

In addition to this recognition of contributions to the Division of Student Affairs, the event opened with a fun series of Superlative Awards. These lighthearted awards celebrated the unique personalities and everyday contributions of staff members.

Best Jokes- the most likely to make you laugh in a meeting

• Chad Wilt and Chris Owens

Early Bird- the employee who is always first at a meeting

• Jneanne Hacker

Social Butterfly- the employee who is always positively engaging with students, faculty and staff

• Cat Wong

Coffeepot's Best Friend- someone who always has a cup of coffee in their hand

• Tim Epley

Silver Lining Award- someone who always keeps things positive

• Eileen Marsal Koch

Helping Hand Award- the employee who is always lending a helping hand

• Meagan Day

Write-in superlative awards and winners included Fix-It Felix, awarded to Scott Hardy, Best Listening, awarded to Jim Sand, and Mostly Likely to Work During a University Closure, awarded to Nate Chesser.

This year's recipients’ dedication not only enriches the University community, but also sets a high standard for excellence in student support and engagement.

Redington closed the event saying, "I appreciate all of you for being here today and for your hard work throughout the year. I look forward to seeing you all at our staff kick-off in August."

Congratulations to all the award recipients and nominees for their outstanding contributions.