Today@Sam Article
Student Affairs Service And Recognition Awards
July 22, 2019
SHSU Media Contact: Wes Hamilton
The Division of Student Affairs recently held an awards ceremony to honor those at Sam Houston State University for both years of service and outstanding accomplishments.
Awards included exceptional work both inside and out of the division.
Supporter Of The Division Award - Lori Proctor, Print Services
Given to a staff member outside the Division of Student Affairs who demonstrates a commitment to the vision and mission. This individual works with and helps support programs and initiatives, as well as serves as an advocate to all departments in the Division of Student Affairs.
“Lori is a wonderful choice for this award because she works hard behind the scenes of numerous Student Affairs events to ensure the departments have printed marketing materials they need,” said Debbie Nichols, assistant to the vice president of student affairs and event emcee. “In addition, she is always one of the first faces you see at open Student Affairs events providing support. She also is the ultimate Bearkat and constantly exudes SHSU pride. We are happy to present this inaugural award to a great friend and supporter of the division.”
Outstanding Collaborative Program Award - Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM)
Presented to the outstanding program that enhances current collaborative efforts on university issues, programs, activities and/or services. This program has been predominantly planned and funded by a SHSU Student Affairs department, with collaborative partners working to educate and bring awareness to this serious social issue.
The goal of SAAM is to raise public awareness about sexual violence and to educate communities and individuals on how to discourage and prevent sexual violence. SHSU’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month Committee and the Huntsville community at large annually plan a host of events to support survivors and encourage bystanders to intervene in what still remains a local, national, and international social problem.
Outstanding Department Award - Student Money Management Center
This department has demonstrated a commitment to university and/or division traditions and values. The department has a positive impact on the campus community, and has effectively utilized their resources, including budgets, staff, and technology to accomplish the goals of the department and the division.
The award winning SHSU Student Money Management Center is a financial outreach and educational program that empowers students to achieve financial independence. In 2018, LendEdu ranked the SMMC 5th in the Nation for outstanding Student Money Management centers.
The SMMC successfully processed data for 13,343 students with student loan debt. Additionally along with the debt letters themselves, the student loan debt mentor program was established to educate and inform students of their student loan debt and how to reduce their debt levels and manage their finances better. The SMMC was also awarded the Houston Money Week 2018 Stellar Award for dedicated years of outstanding service and commitment to excellence.
Unsung Hero Award - Nu’Nicka Epps, Administrative Associate, Equity and Inclusion/Title IX
Epps works quietly behind the scenes for the good of Student Affairs and SHSU, though not publicly celebrated, demonstrates leadership through dedication and service.
“Epps has a passion for her position and for helping students,” Nichols said. “She does all the behind the scenes work for Title IX and the Sexual Assault Awareness Month Committee. She dedicates her time and leadership through both her department and events by going above and beyond her scope of duties. It is a well-deserved achievement.”
The Frank E Parker Exceptional Work with Students Award - Brian McColpin, Assistant Director, Student Activities
The award goes to the staff member who, during this past year, demonstrated outstanding commitment beyond the scope of their job duties in helping students pursue their goals and achieve great success.
Prior to arriving at SHSU, McColpin was the Program Coordinator for Iowa Western Community College. He is also a staff member for Universal Cheerleader's Association (UCA). During his tenure, SHSU has received national recognition through SHSU Spirit Programs, winning two National Championships in 2019 and over 18 National Championships in the last 10 years; the most national championships of any university entity.
Bearkat Spirit Award - Brad Herget, Assistant Director, LSC Events and Technology
Awarded to the staff member who demonstrates outstanding dedication, initiative, motivation, positive attitude, and spirit to Student Affairs and the University.
“We wanted to ensure that Herget’s outstanding commitment to providing top notch technical services to the University and surrounding community did not go unnoticed,” Nichols said.
The ceremony also included honors for those who have worked at the university for a number of years.
5-year Awards
Jeffery Anderson, Scott Berkowitz, Michelle Castanon, Richard Chisum, Norma Durfee, Sarah Garcia, Timothy Osborne, Terri Pursley, Jaron Rider, Haley Rothrock, Pamela Stanoscheck, Retha Utley, Greschen Yount.
10-year Awards
Placido Bravo, Francisca Hernandez, Christopher Mahlen, Brian McColpin, William Plitt, Lecenia Sibrian Morales, Shantha Stokes, Maria Villatoro
15-year Awards
Brandon Cooper, John Yarabeck
20-year Award
Daughn Pruitt
25-year Awards
Edward Chatal, John Christ
30-year Awards
Joellen Tipton, Jeff Vienneau
- END -
This page maintained by SHSU's Communications Office:
Director of Content Communications: Emily Binetti
Asst. Director Content & Social Media: Emilee White
Communications Manager: Mikah Boyd
Telephone: 936.294.1837
Communications Specialist: Campbell Atkins
Telephone: 936.294.2638
Please send comments, corrections, news tips to Today@Sam.edu