As part of ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½'s Student Employee Appreciation Week, Career Exploration and Development proudly announces recipients of the 2025 Student Employee and Supervisor Awards. These annual honors recognize outstanding individuals who exemplify excellence in their roles across campus, demonstrating initiative, leadership, inclusivity and an enduring commitment to community.
Change-Maker Award
Seema Dhaher, Recreation and Wellness Services
Seema is a true example of this award through her leadership and dedication to Recreation and Wellness Services, where she has taken on several roles, including Lifeguard, Aquatics Supervisor, Safety Instructor and Adventure Center Specialist. As President of the Student RecWell Council, she leads students in upholding RecWell’s values and acts as a key connection between student employees, administrators and the community. Her passion for safety education has not only enhanced her peers’ skills but has also resulted in life-saving outcomes on campus.
Excellence in Culture & Belonging Award
Tess Golden, Recreation and Wellness Services
As the Inclusion Supervisor for the Adventure Center in Recreation and Wellness Services, Tess ensures that all programs are accessible and welcoming to students, faculty, staff and the community. She fosters a positive environment where individuals feel encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and try adventure recreation. Tess has also organized training sessions, developed online resources and implemented a marketing plan to expand reach, reduce barriers and boost participation in RecWell programs, focusing on connecting with underrepresented groups at the Adventure Center.
Inspirational Leadership Award
Brooke Schwerha, Recreation and Wellness Services
Brooke embodies this award’s spirit through her dedication to training and developing fellow student employees as both the Lead Operations Supervisor and Vice President of the Student RecWell Council in Recreation and Wellness Services. She coordinates training, supports HR efforts, and demonstrates strong organizational and teamwork skills. Brooke motivates her peers to reach new heights and encourages growth through learning from mistakes. Her professionalism, composure, kindness and empathy have earned her the respect of her peers.
Sunshine & Positivity Award
Bianca Nakid Filaskoski, Education Abroad, Office of Global Education
As a student employee in Education Abroad, Bianca handles a wide range of tasks, including analyzing data, managing web pages, creating social media content and planning student events. She tackles every project with enthusiasm, creativity and great attention to detail. Her curiosity, eagerness to learn and positive energy inspire the whole team. Bianca also makes it a point to greet everyone in the morning and wish them a good evening, spreading kindness and professionalism throughout the office. Her thoughtful actions and genuine care have made a lasting impact on both Education Abroad and ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½.
Outstanding Supervisor Award
Katie Finch, Academic Success Center
Katie excels as the Academic Coaching Coordinator for the Academic Success Center by creating a positive, motivating environment for her student staff. She encourages open communication and teamwork while giving constructive feedback and celebrating successes of all kinds. Katie recognizes individual strengths and supports her team’s well-being and growth. Her approachable, kind and empathetic nature, combined with her constant professionalism, makes her an exceptional supervisor, one truly deserving of the Outstanding Supervisor Award.
Flashes GROW Award
Zachary Boggs, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
As Senior Academic Laboratory Manager, Zach helps Chemistry Stockroom student employees develop technical and problem-solving skills. He provides hands-on experience, coaches them through challenges and builds their confidence with lab demonstrations, training events and outreach programs. Zach fosters a supportive team environment by celebrating achievements and turning mistakes into learning opportunities. He also prepares students for their careers by discussing job opportunities, reviewing résumés and cover letters, and hosting mock interviews. His dedication to student growth and success makes him a deserving recipient of the Flashes GROW Award.
These awardees exemplify what it means to be a Golden Flash – dedicated, inclusive and inspiring. ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ thanks all of its student employees and supervisors for their invaluable contributions to our campus community.