KALAMAZOO, Mich.—From resume-worthy skills to social connection and well-being resources, on-campus employment offers Western Michigan University students a number of benefits while also providing vital services to the campus community. The University will celebrate student contributions during National Student Employee Appreciation Week April 13 to 17.
“Our student employees are not just future professionals; they are professionals right now. Each year, we hear stories of student employees who go above and beyond their roles. They solve problems before they escalate, they create welcoming spaces for others and they lead with empathy and excellence,” says Amanda Jeppesen, student employment specialist in Career and Student Employment Services. “Their work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt across the University.
Western employs approximately 2,800 student employees during fall and spring semesters in nearly every division on campus. More than a paycheck, student employment is an avenue for Experience-Driven Learning.
“It gives students the opportunity to develop leadership, communication and problem-solving skills in real-world settings where their contributions impact the people around them. They work side by side with professional staff, managing responsibilities that impact WMU in tangible ways, including leading teams and training others,” Jeppesen says. “These experiences increase both confidence and competence, resilience and professionalism while building strong resumes.”
To celebrate their work, student employees are invited to stop by The Source in the WMU Student Center to pick up an appreciation gift from Career and Student Employment Services during the following times:
- Monday, April 14, 1-4 p.m.
- Tuesday, April 15, 1-4 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 16, 3-5 p.m.
- Thursday, April 17, 1-4 p.m.
Supervisors are also encouraged to recognize their student employees during the week, whether by parties, treats, certificates, professional development or simple words of affirmation.
“Student employees are essential to Western Michigan University’s ability to serve our community and respond to its evolving needs. They are critical contributors to the University’s mission. They mentor their peers in academics and leadership programs. They run high-impact operational tasks and everything in between,” says Jeppesen. “We’re happy to celebrate them now and beyond National Student Employee Appreciation Week.”
Awards
Each year, the University recognizes exemplars in student employment with the Gary L. Belleville Student Employee of the Year and Student Advisor of the Year awards. This year’s winners include:
Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year
Jordan Moore, a finance major, was nominated for his work as a TRIO Student Success Program mentor and Foundation Scholars support specialist. In his roles, he is tasked with helping dozens of students connect with important resources and stay engaged on campus. His nominator praises his “internal joy and zest for life and people around him” that make him a positive presence in the office.
Moore’s intuitive nature, can-do attitude, excellent communication skills and ability to take initiative to lead development of programs and resources sets him apart from his peers.
“I have no doubt in my mind that he will make a lasting difference at the University or in the community” by helping countless students realize and reach their full potential, writes his nominator.
Graduate Student Employee of the Year
Teja Lingineni, a master’s student studying mechanical engineering, was nominated for his work as a utility/stock supervisor in Dining Services. He is an empathetic leader, adept at problem-solving and ensuring coworkers are equipped to do their jobs efficiently and correctly while maintaining a kind and patient nature.
“He is always happy to help anyone, and it makes everyone feel good about themselves,” writes his nominator.
Lingineni is also valued for his teaching abilities, taking time to train other student employees to ensure they are properly prepared and confident in their responsibilities. His consistent efforts above and beyond what is asked of him earned him a supervisor role in both receiving and utility. “I have worked with several student employees … at WMU, and he is one of the best!” his nominator says.
Supervisor of the Year Award
Natalie Faculak was nominated for her role as assistant director of events in the Office of Admissions. She coordinates Main Campus events such as Future Bronco Days and manages and organizes the student ambassador program. “The Office of Admissions simply could not function without her,” says her nominator. “Whenever anything needs to get done, Natalie always does it—even if it’s not technically part of her job description.”
Nominators say she goes above and beyond to support student employees both professionally and personally and is dedicated to their well-being. “She’s always trying to help us grow in our roles and develop our strengths,” they say. In addition to organizing kick-off events and developing a leadership course, she also makes sure to recognize students through pride points that publicly acknowledge hard work and positive attitudes.
Faculak is recognized as a supervisor who puts her team above all else, regularly offering to stay late to help students, coworkers and anyone else in need. “Natalie is a role model for dedication, problem-solving and relationship-building,” her nominator says.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.
