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Recognition Program

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The Student Affairs Division Recognition Program honors the outstanding contributions and performance of staff/faculty members within the Division of Student Affairs at CSUSM. This initiative provides an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable efforts of employees across the division, fostering a work environment where individuals feel appreciated and valued. 

The program enhances a sense of community and supports retention by acknowledging the diverse and talented workforce that advances the division’s mission, vision, and values. Monthly and annual awards are presented to individuals who exemplify dedication, teamwork, and innovation, aligning with the division’s strategic goals. By highlighting exceptional contributions across the division, university, and student experience, the Student Affairs Division Recognition Program strengthens community bonds and acknowledges the vital role staff/faculty play in student success and campus well-being. 

Divisional Awards

• Monthly STAR Award

  The STAR Award—which stands for Staff/Faculty Transforming Actions and Results—is designed to highlight and celebrate the exceptional work happening across our division, whether through direct student engagement or critical behind-the-scenes support. Each month, this award will honor one staff/faculty member (non-MPP) whose actions or work performance exemplify our mission to "transform lives, one student at a time." 

  The STAR Award Committee selects the recipient based on nominations (including self-nominations) that showcase outstanding efforts, collaboration, or meaningful contributions that positively impact students, the division, or the campus community.

  We are fortunate to work in a division filled with talented, dedicated individuals. The STAR Award is one way we can show our appreciation and gratitude for the important work being done every day. 

• End of the Year Awards

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  • Student Employee Service Award

    Recognizes a student employee who has demonstrated outstanding performance, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the mission and values of the Division of Student Affairs. This individual consistently went above and beyond their role, made meaningful contributions to their teams and the campus community, and demonstrated exceptional potential as a future leader in Student Affairs.  

    Nominees may include CSUSM undergraduate or graduate students, as well as graduate students from other institutions who are currently employed at CSUSM. 

  • Distinguished Friend of Student Affairs Award
    Recognizes a faculty member, staff member, or administrator outside the Division of Student Affairs who has made a meaningful and sustained contribution to our work. Through collaboration, advocacy, or service, the recipient has helped advance the division’s mission and supported our programs, team members, and students. 
  • Individual Excellence in Student Service Award

    Recognizes a Student Affairs staff or faculty member who goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, effective, and high-quality experience for CSUSM students. The honoree embodies the university’s core values in daily interactions, serves as a role model for students and colleagues, and actively contributes to student retention, graduation, and success. 

    Self-nominations are not accepted. 

  • Team Excellence in Student Service Award
    Recognizes a team within the Division of Student Affairs that demonstrates outstanding collaboration, innovation, and dedication to advancing student success. The team has implemented a program, service, or initiative that addressed a specific student need and made meaningful impact, either through measurable outcomes or exceptional student feedback. 
  • Innovation Award
    Recognizes an individual staff, faculty member, or a department within the Division of Student Affairs, that has demonstrated a creative, collaborative, and solution-oriented approach to advancing the division’s mission. The honoree has proactively identified and addressed a service gap or operational need, developing innovative strategies that improve processes, services, or the student experience. 
  • Outstanding Administrative or Operational Support Award
    Recognizes an individual in an administrative or operational support role whose behind-the-scenes contributions are vital to the success of their department, the Division of Student Affairs, and the university. Often considered an unsung hero, this individual consistently exceeds expectations, delivers exceptional service to students, staff, and campus partners, and fosters a welcoming and efficient work environment. Their dedication provides a strong foundation for innovative, student-centered work to thrive. 
  • Outstanding New Professional Award

    Recognizes a new professional within the Division of Student Affairs who consistently exceeds the expectations of their role through professionalism, initiative, and a strong commitment to both departmental and campus-wide impact. The recipient demonstrates leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing the mission of Student Affairs.  

    Open to full-time staff or faculty members within the Division of Student Affairs who have fewer than three years of professional experience in the field. 

  • Outstanding Manager Award

    Recognizes an individual in a Management Personnel Plan (MPP) role who exemplifies leadership, fosters a supportive and inclusive team culture, and actively advances their department’s effectiveness and impact. The recipient demonstrates a commitment to developing staff, promoting collaboration, and aligning their team’s efforts with the mission and goals of the Division of Student Affairs. 

  • Sandra R. Kuchler Employee of the Year Award

    Named in honor of Sandra Kuchler—a foundational member of the CSUSM community whose tireless advocacy helped shape the university’s student-centered culture. Sandra began her service in 1989 at SDSU North County and remained a guiding force through CSUSM’s early years, known for her integrity, compassion, and refusal to accept “no” when students needed support. 

    Presented annually since 2000, this award honors a full-time staff, faculty, or MPP employee in the Division of Student Affairs for their long-standing contribution, unwavering dedication, and alignment with CSUSM’s values. The recipient leads by example in their daily work, demonstrates professionalism and pride in all they do, and goes the extra mile to support colleagues, advance student success, and strengthen the division. Their outstanding service and collaborative spirit leave a lasting impact and serve as an inspiration to others. 

  
  

STAR Award Recipients

2025

• March 2025

  

  Sierra Morse, Cougar Care Network Case Manager  

  Sierra Moorse is recognized for her work in Cougar Care Network. Sierra plays a critical role in enhancing student support and staff training around mental health crises. Sierra has led initiatives like creating emergency response clipboards, a hand-out resource library, and a redesigned CCN cart that has reached over 1,000 students. Sierra’s dedication, innovation, and commitment to CCN’s mission truly make her an irreplaceable asset to the CSUSM community. 

• February 2025

  

  Nick Booker, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Athletics

  Coach Booker is recognized for his commitment to student development and his leadership within CSUSM Athletics and the broader campus community. Through initiatives like “Real Life Wednesdays,” he supports student-athletes in building life skills beyond the court, focusing on career readiness, wellness, and personal growth. His deep engagement with student life and dedication to student success exemplify what it means to be a Cougar. 

• January 2025

  

  Perla Rivas, TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Counselor

  Perla is recognized for her dedication to first-generation student success and commitment to fostering community, belonging, and resilience. Whether mentoring through TRIO SSS, advising the First-Generation Club, or leading impactful programs like the Virtual First-Gen Alumni Panel, Perla consistently goes above and beyond to empower students. Her work inside and outside the classroom helps students build confidence, persist through challenges, and reach their goals. 

2024

• November 2024

  

  Tyler Vuillemot, Assistant Director of Student Involvement!

  Tyler is recognized for his transformative work with student organizations, helping students discover their passions outside the classroom and develop leadership, interpersonal, and transferable skills for future success. Through initiatives like the Fall Workshop Series and the Leadership Academy, Tyler has created impactful programs that enhance student learning and leadership development. His collaborative approach, working with partners across the division and campus, broadens students’ knowledge and access to resources, furthering their growth and success.

• October 2024

  

  Rosa Hunt, Health Educator, Student Health & Counseling Services

  Rosa is recognized for her exceptional dedication to student wellness through impactful programs like Mental Health First Aid Training and Depression and Anxiety Screenings. Her collaborative spirit and evidence-based approach to mental health education make a meaningful difference in our campus community. 

Past Award Recipients

• December 2023
  • Student Employee Service Award: Angel Albarote, Success Coaching
  • Distinguished Friend of Student Affairs Award: Brittani Brown, Finance & Administrative Services
  • Individual Excellence in Student Service Award: Alondra Lopez, ASI Cougar Pantry 
  • Team Excellence in Student Service Award: Project Rebound  
  • Innovation Award: Health Assistance Fund  
  • Outstanding Administrative or Operational Support Award: Katherine Lucero-Egger, Recruitment & Outreach
  • Outstanding New Professional Award: Alejandro Arellano, Project Rebound
  • Sandra R. Kuchler Employee of the Year Award: Andres Favela, Retiree
• December 2022
  • Student Employee Service Award: Julia Glorioso, ASI President and Alliance Ambassador
  • Distinguished Friend of Student Affairs Award: Adam Petersen, Assistant Dean, Office of Undergradaute Studies
  • Individual Excellence in Student Service Award: Mae Talicuran, Assistant Director, Personalized Academic Success Services (PASS)
  • Team Excellence in Student Service Award: Reacruitment and Outreach Team
  • Innovation Award: Admissions and Registrar ITC/Analyst Team
  • Outstanding Administrative or Operational Support Award: Crystal Hernderson, Budget Analyst, Student Life
  • Outstanding New Professional Award: Kenya Avilez, Student Conduct Specialist, Dean of Students
  • Sandra R. Kuchler Employee of the Year Award: Lisa Dickinson, Associate Director, University Student Union/Interim Director, Campus Recreation