Divisional Staff of Excellence Award Winners

These awards recognize the dedication and excellence of staff serving in the Division of Student Affairs who have provided exemplary, dedicated and caring service to divisions purpose to Connect Every Student. Further, these awards honor and celebrate Student Affairs employees who showcase innovation and commitment to student-centered efforts at 天美视频. 

Past Award Winners

Inaugural 2025 Divisional Staff Excellence Award Winners

Staff Excellence Award Recipients

Rising Star Award
Clarence Albury

Clarence Albury 鈥� For early and meaningful impact within their first three years, demonstrating innovation, collaboration, and a passion for growth.



Milestone Award
Tia Hill

Tia Hill - For sustained commitment and remarkable service that has strengthened students, departments, and the university as a whole.

Outstanding Supervisor Award

 

Samantha Rowan
Samantha Rowan 鈥� For demonstrating exceptional management, supervision, and support of their staff personally and professionally.
Unsung Hero Award
Dr. Christopher Leonard
Dr. Christopher Leonard 鈥� For visionary leadership that inspires, empowers, and drives meaningful change across the division.
Excellence in Belonging Award
Caitlin Nolen

Caitlin Nolen 鈥� For fostering a culture of belonging by championing efforts focused on supporting the campus community, ensuring that students and colleagues feel seen, valued, and supported.

 

Pillar Award Recipients

Equip
Emily Zimmerman
Emily Zimmerman 鈥� For demonstrating exceptional service by cultivating growth, efficiency, and development in equipping themselves and others with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed.
Engage
 

Vanessa Bell - For cultivating authentic connections and elevating the student voice to strengthen the Shocker community.

Empower
Kennedy Rogers
Kennedy Rogers 鈥揊or empowering others to lead boldly, embrace their potential, and celebrate their impact.
 
Educate
 
Cora Olson 鈥� For advancing campus-wide wellness through a culture of care and connection by encouraging self-growth, knowledge-sharing, and continual learning to promote holistic well-being.

Honoring a Legacy: The Dr. Teri Hall Connecting Every Student Award

Teri Hall

In tribute to a legacy that has shaped the very foundation of Student Affairs at Wichita State, we are honored to present the inaugural Dr. Teri Hall Connecting Every Student Award.

For years, Dr. Teri Hall has led with fierce compassion, intentional care, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of connection. Her commitment to inclusion, balance, student-centeredness, and staff well-being has touched every corner of our division. 

Through her example, we have learned what it means to truly show up鈥攆or our students, for one another, and for our community.

This award, named in her honor, celebrates a leader whose heart, vision, and advocacy have made a lasting impact. Because of Dr. Hall, we are more connected, more courageous, and more committed to the mission of serving students with empathy and excellence. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of student affairs professionals for years to come.