Kennesaw State University leaders presented awards to five employees for their exceptional service at the institution’s annual staff awards event held at the KSU Center on April 30.
The recognition highlights the importance of staff members in supporting Kennesaw State’s mission of teaching, learning, and research. Thousands of employees work daily in various roles to ensure the university operates smoothly.
“Delivering fully on the mission of Kennesaw State depends on the work of our exceptional staff,” said President Kathy S. Schwaig. “This year’s nominees and honorees serve the university with excellence in powerful, tangible ways every day. Their work is inspiring and we are proud to congratulate and acknowledge their commitment to KSU.”
Chief Human Resources Officer Karen McDonnell led an Emmy Awards-style ceremony where videos about each winner were shown before they received their awards. “The quality of these nominees and honorees today show how impactful they are, regardless of how much direct student interaction they have, as all campus roles work together for the good of our students,” McDonnell said. “When we recognize excellence, we don’t just celebrate the past, we shape the future.”
Nicole Phillips, associate director for outreach and engagement in Counseling and Psychological Services, received the Outstanding Owl Award—the university’s highest honor—after being nominated by Randall Bogard, executive director for student activities. “The reason I nominated Dr. Phillips is that she’s been a wealth of knowledge for us in the division – she’s always there to answer questions and provide guidance,” Bogard said. “She exemplifies the Outstanding Owl Award by being a resource for all. She represents everything you want in a student affairs representative and a representative of Kennesaw State as a whole.” Bogard also mentioned Phillips’ contributions to suicide prevention programs such as “You Matter” and other mental health initiatives.
Other award recipients included Lauren Hughes (Living Learning Lab program manager), Amanda Sampson (assistant director, Enterprise Customer Relationship Management), Katrina Fults (associate director, operations and student success), and Amanda Rodgers (manager, administrative services). The ceremony was underwritten by the Kennesaw State University Foundation which provided monetary gifts accompanying each award.
Award nominations were managed by Human Resources with support from supervisors, staff members, a review committee from across campus including Staff Senate representatives; this year saw 64 nominees considered for five honors.