PASSWORDMANAGEMENT
Recognition Program
About the Program
The Student Affairs Division Recognition Program honors the outstanding contributions and performance of staff/faculty members within the Division of Student Affairs at 爆料社区. This initiative provides an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable efforts of employees across the division, fostering a work environment where individuals feel appreciated and valued.
The program enhances a sense of community and supports retention by acknowledging the diverse and talented workforce that advances the division鈥檚 mission, vision, and values. Monthly and annual awards are presented to individuals who exemplify dedication, teamwork, and innovation, aligning with the division鈥檚 strategic goals. By highlighting exceptional contributions across the division, university, and student experience, the Student Affairs Division Recognition Program strengthens community bonds and acknowledges the vital role staff/faculty play in student success and campus well-being.
Divisional Awards
- Monthly STAR Award
The STAR Award鈥攚hich stands for Staff/Faculty Transforming Actions and Results鈥攊s designed to highlight and celebrate the exceptional work happening across our division, whether through direct student engagement or critical behind-the-scenes support. Each month, this award will honor one staff/faculty member (non-MPP) whose actions or work performance exemplify our mission to "transform lives, one student at a time."
The STAR Award Committee selects the recipient based on nominations (including self-nominations) that showcase outstanding efforts, collaboration, or meaningful contributions that positively impact students, the division, or the campus community.
We are fortunate to work in a division filled with talented, dedicated individuals. The STAR Award is one way we can show our appreciation and gratitude for the important work being done every day.
- End of the Year Awards
- Student Employee Service Award
Recognizes a student employee who has demonstrated outstanding performance, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the mission and values of the Division of Student Affairs. This individual consistently went above and beyond their role, made meaningful contributions to their teams and the campus community, and demonstrated exceptional potential as a future leader in Student Affairs.
Nominees may include 爆料社区 undergraduate or graduate students, as well as graduate students from other institutions who are currently employed at 爆料社区.
- Distinguished Friend of Student Affairs AwardRecognizes a faculty member, staff member, or administrator outside the Division of Student Affairs who has made a meaningful and sustained contribution to our work. Through collaboration, advocacy, or service, the recipient has helped advance the division鈥檚 mission and supported our programs, team members, and students.
- Individual Excellence in Student Service Award
Recognizes a Student Affairs staff or faculty member who goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, effective, and high-quality experience for 爆料社区 students. The honoree embodies the university鈥檚 core values in daily interactions, serves as a role model for students and colleagues, and actively contributes to student retention, graduation, and success.
Self-nominations are not accepted.
- Team Excellence in Student Service AwardRecognizes a team within the Division of Student Affairs that demonstrates outstanding collaboration, innovation, and dedication to advancing student success. The team has implemented a program, service, or initiative that addressed a specific student need and made meaningful impact, either through measurable outcomes or exceptional student feedback.
- Innovation AwardRecognizes an individual staff, faculty member, or a department within the Division of Student Affairs, that has demonstrated a creative, collaborative, and solution-oriented approach to advancing the division鈥檚 mission. The honoree has proactively identified and addressed a service gap or operational need, developing innovative strategies that improve processes, services, or the student experience.
- Outstanding Administrative or Operational Support AwardRecognizes an individual in an administrative or operational support role whose behind-the-scenes contributions are vital to the success of their department, the Division of Student Affairs, and the university. Often considered an unsung hero, this individual consistently exceeds expectations, delivers exceptional service to students, staff, and campus partners, and fosters a welcoming and efficient work environment. Their dedication provides a strong foundation for innovative, student-centered work to thrive.
- Outstanding New Professional Award
Recognizes a new professional within the Division of Student Affairs who consistently exceeds the expectations of their role through professionalism, initiative, and a strong commitment to both departmental and campus-wide impact. The recipient demonstrates leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing the mission of Student Affairs.
Open to full-time staff or faculty members within the Division of Student Affairs who have fewer than three years of professional experience in the field.
- Outstanding Manager Award
Recognizes an individual in a Management Personnel Plan (MPP) role who exemplifies leadership, fosters a supportive and inclusive team culture, and actively advances their department鈥檚 effectiveness and impact. The recipient demonstrates a commitment to developing staff, promoting collaboration, and aligning their team鈥檚 efforts with the mission and goals of the Division of Student Affairs.
- Sandra R. Kuchler Employee of the Year Award
Named in honor of Sandra Kuchler鈥攁 foundational member of the 爆料社区 community whose tireless advocacy helped shape the university鈥檚 student-centered culture. Sandra began her service in 1989 at SDSU North County and remained a guiding force through 爆料社区鈥檚 early years, known for her integrity, compassion, and refusal to accept 鈥渘o鈥 when students needed support.
Presented annually since 2000, this award honors a full-time staff, faculty, or MPP employee in the Division of Student Affairs for their long-standing contribution, unwavering dedication, and alignment with 爆料社区鈥檚 values. The recipient leads by example in their daily work, demonstrates professionalism and pride in all they do, and goes the extra mile to support colleagues, advance student success, and strengthen the division. Their outstanding service and collaborative spirit leave a lasting impact and serve as an inspiration to others.
- Student Employee Service Award
STAR Award Recipients
2025
- October 2025
Liz Quiroz, Front Desk Coordiantor, SHCS
Liz Quiroz is a dedicated, compassionate, and highly dependable member of SHCS who consistently goes above and beyond to support students and the department. Throughout recent staffing transitions, she has taken on several key roles, including Front Desk Lead, Family PACT Coordinator, Health Assistance Fund Assistant, and PNC/Cougar Health Portal Liaison, while continuing to provide exceptional front-line service. Liz is widely appreciated for improving systems, streamlining processes, and expanding student access to care, all with her warm demeanor and unwavering commitment to a student-centered experience. Her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and meaningful impact on both students and providers make her an invaluable asset to SHCS.
- September 2025
Guillermo Gamboa, USU Maitanence Mechanic
Guillermo Gamboa was the driving force behind the USU Space Relocation Project this summer, leading the relocation and renovation of key spaces under an ambitious timeline. His reliability, strong work ethic, and positive spirit kept the project on track and the team motivated. From repairing and painting walls to moving furniture and solving unexpected challenges, Guillermo tackled every task with skill, creativity, and enthusiasm.
His care for people and dedication to creating welcoming, functional environments embody the heart of the USU鈥檚 mission. Guillermo truly helps keep the USU running, and his dedication makes him highly deserving of the STAR Award.
- August 2025
Marilyn Chapman, Office Manager and Testing Coordinator, Disability Support Services
Marilyn Chapman is a true 鈥淪TAR鈥 for our team and campus community. She keeps the office running smoothly while providing consistent support to students, faculty, and staff. Marilyn coordinates finals for many DSS students鈥攐verseeing room assignments, proctoring, scheduling, and materials鈥攚hile handling unexpected challenges with integrity and respect.
Through her kindness, empathy, and inclusiveness, Marilyn fosters a strong sense of belonging. Students know her as a supportive colleague, mentor, and encourager. We are deeply grateful for her dedication and the lasting impact she makes on our community.
- July 2025
Antonio Hernandez Rodriguez, Basic Needs Specialist, Dean of Students
As Basic Needs Specialist, Antonio works both behind the scenes and on the ground to ensure students have the support they need. At 爆料社区, he has built community partnerships that connect students to housing, food, legal aid, public benefits, and more. He played a key role in securing emergency housing resources and continues to expand opportunities for students.
Antonio also leads the Swipe Out Hunger team, which provides hundreds of free meals each semester while linking students to immediate and long-term support. Beyond program development, he meets individually with students during their most challenging moments, offering compassion, guidance, and care.
- June 2025
Crisella Caisip, Administrative Support Coordinator鈥
Crisella is an indispensable member of the Title IX/DHR team and a trusted support to the AVP for Student Affairs. She is known for her reliability, adaptability, and willingness to step in whenever there is a need. Crisella鈥檚 warm welcome, kind heart, and can-do attitude create a collaborative environment for colleagues, students, and campus partners.
Last spring, during a period of intense transition, Crisella played a pivotal role in coordinating three critical hiring processes: the AVP for Title IX/DHR, the Director of Disability Support Services, and the Title IX/DHR Prevention and Education Coordinator. She managed communications with candidates, search committees, and key stakeholders, while orchestrating multiple interviews and public presentations with precision and professionalism.
Crisella鈥檚 contributions exemplify dedication, excellence, and service. Her efforts have had a positive impact on the division鈥檚 operations and culture, while advancing its mission to transform lives, one student at a time.
- March 2025
Sierra Morse, Cougar Care Network Case Manager, Dean of Students
Sierra Moorse is recognized for her work in Cougar Care Network. Sierra plays a critical role in enhancing student support and staff training around mental health crises. Sierra has led initiatives like creating emergency response clipboards, a hand-out resource library, and a redesigned CCN cart that has reached over 1,000 students. Sierra鈥檚 dedication, innovation, and commitment to CCN鈥檚 mission truly make her an irreplaceable asset to the 爆料社区 community.
- February 2025
Nick Booker, Head Men鈥檚 Basketball Coach, Athletics
Coach Booker is recognized for his commitment to student development and his leadership within 爆料社区 Athletics and the broader campus community. Through initiatives like 鈥淩eal Life Wednesdays,鈥 he supports student-athletes in building life skills beyond the court, focusing on career readiness, wellness, and personal growth. His deep engagement with student life and dedication to student success exemplify what it means to be a Cougar.
- January 2025
Perla Rivas, TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Counselor
Perla is recognized for her dedication to first-generation student success and commitment to fostering community, belonging, and resilience. Whether mentoring through TRIO SSS, advising the First-Generation Club, or leading impactful programs like the Virtual First-Gen Alumni Panel, Perla consistently goes above and beyond to empower students. Her work inside and outside the classroom helps students build confidence, persist through challenges, and reach their goals.
2024
- November 2024
Tyler Vuillemot, Assistant Director of Student Involvement!
Tyler is recognized for his transformative work with student organizations, helping students discover their passions outside the classroom and develop leadership, interpersonal, and transferable skills for future success. Through initiatives like the Fall Workshop Series and the Leadership Academy, Tyler has created impactful programs that enhance student learning and leadership development. His collaborative approach, working with partners across the division and campus, broadens students鈥 knowledge and access to resources, furthering their growth and success.
- October 2024
Rosa Hunt, Health Educator, Student Health & Counseling Services
Rosa is recognized for her exceptional dedication to student wellness through impactful programs like Mental Health First Aid Training and Depression and Anxiety Screenings. Her collaborative spirit and evidence-based approach to mental health education make a meaningful difference in our campus community.
Past Award Recipients
- December 2023
- Student Employee Service Award: Angel Albarote, Success Coaching
- Distinguished Friend of Student Affairs Award: Brittani Brown, Finance & Administrative Services
- Individual Excellence in Student Service Award: Alondra Lopez, ASI Cougar Pantry
- Team Excellence in Student Service Award: Project Rebound
- Innovation Award: Health Assistance Fund
- Outstanding Administrative or Operational Support Award: Katherine Lucero-Egger, Recruitment & Outreach
- Outstanding New Professional Award: Alejandro Arellano, Project Rebound
- Sandra R. Kuchler Employee of the Year Award: Andres Favela, Retiree
- December 2022
- Student Employee Service Award: Julia Glorioso, ASI President and Alliance Ambassador
- Distinguished Friend of Student Affairs Award: Adam Petersen, Assistant Dean, Office of Undergradaute Studies
- Individual Excellence in Student Service Award: Mae Talicuran, Assistant Director, Personalized Academic Success Services (PASS)
- Team Excellence in Student Service Award: Reacruitment and Outreach Team
- Innovation Award: Admissions and Registrar ITC/Analyst Team
- Outstanding Administrative or Operational Support Award: Crystal Hernderson, Budget Analyst, Student Life
- Outstanding New Professional Award: Kenya Avilez, Student Conduct Specialist, Dean of Students
- Sandra R. Kuchler Employee of the Year Award: Lisa Dickinson, Associate Director, University Student Union/Interim Director, Campus Recreation