CSU-Pueblo Presents Its Annual Shining Star Awards for Service
By Gayle Perez, The Pueblo Chieftain, Colo.
Apr. 17–Colorado State University-Pueblo on Wednesday recognized some of its top employees for their outstanding service at the school’s annual Shining Stars awards luncheon.
The honored faculty and staff members have done “an exceptional job” on behalf of the university, CSU-Pueblo President Joe Garcia said.
“(Good employees) ultimately make for the quality of the institution of higher education,” Garcia said.
The outstanding professional employee award was given to Derek Lopez, director of the First-Year Center.
Lopez, an alum of CSU-Pueblo, is responsible for the program that monitors, advises, orientates and oversees the university’s first-year students.
Garcia said Lopez serves as “a tremendous role model to local students and minority students, in particular, about reaching for and achieving your dreams.”
Veronica Herrera of the Southern Colorado Educational Opportunity Center and Tanya Baird of the career center also were recognized as outstanding professional staff members.
Kathy Shisler of the university’s records office was named the outstanding classified employee for what was described as her “unwavering commitment and steadfast dedication.”
Ten faculty members also were honored for their outstanding service. They were:
Brian Vanden Heuvel, assistant of professor of biology. Vanden Heuvel was recognized for his engaging lectures and laboratory exercises, as well as his work in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.
Flor Maria Rodriguez-Arenas, professor of English and foreign languages. An internationally recognized scholar in 19th century Latin American fiction, she has published six books in the past 18 months.
Jeff Piquette, assistant professor of teacher education. He was noted for his work to bring change to education at all levels through his involvement in projects from K-12 to the university.
Helen Caprioglio, associate professor and chairwoman of the biology department. Caprioglio was noted for her work in developing a creative advising sheet that helps students better understand the relationship between different courses.
Five faculty members also were honored for outstanding service to their respective colleges. They were:
Roger Clark, assistant professor of exercise, science, health promotions and recreation, College of Education, Engineering and Professional Studies.
Eric Kartchner, associate professor of English and foreign languages, College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Peter Billington, professor of management, Hasan School of Business.
David Lehmpuhl, associate professor and chairman of the chemistry department, College of Science and Mathematics.
Courtney Bruch, instructor of library services.
A new award was one for which students had the opportunity to nominate and vote for a faculty or staff member for the honor. Jennifer Peters, associate professor of music, was selected as the first recipient.
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