Staff recognized for excellence

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

Three College of Education, Health and Aviation staff members were recently recognized for excellence in service, mentorship, creativity and innovation at the college’s annual Excellence Awards reception.

The Morsani Outstanding Staff Service Award was presented to Cindy Cario, outreach and international studies coordinator. The award recognizes the exceptional achievements of staff members who have gone above and beyond in their roles. Cario has been with the college for three years planning and implementing study abroad courses, hosting international guests on campus and collaborating with faculty on new outreach and international initiatives.

“Cindy is a true leader with an unprecedented work ethic and a heart of gold,” said Dr. Bert Jacobson, associate dean for research, engagement and administration in the College of Education, Health and Aviation. “She exemplifies integrity and professionalism and makes this a better place to work each and every day.”

Lisa Baker received the Staff Mentor Award, which recognizes a staff member who has successfully mentored and encouraged colleagues to reach their fullest potential in the college and their career. Baker is an administrative assistant for the School of Teaching Learning and Educational Sciences, and she has worked at OSU for seven years.

“Lisa helps create a positive and welcoming environment for everyone she encounters,” said Dr. Jenn Sanders, head of the School of Teaching, Learning and Educational Sciences. “From assisting students with enrollment to helping faculty schedule courses to running the daily operations for the school to training colleagues on Banner, Lisa goes above and beyond to ensure her job is done well. She is an invaluable asset to our college.

The Staff Creativity and Innovation Award was presented to Dr. Rochelle Cassidy, assistant director of the School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling and Counseling Psychology. This award recognizes a staff member whose big ideas and creative thinking help address challenges in the college and emphasize the importance of innovation, collaboration and creativity.  Cassidy has been in the college for almost two years, and she works closely with the faculty on recruitment initiatives, accreditation processes, student internship placements and many other projects.

“Rochelle’s ‘yes I can’ attitude exemplifies her big ideas and creative thinking and is apparent with everything she does,” said Dr. Julie Koch, head of the School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling and Counseling Psychology.

Media Contact: Rachel Potts | 405-744-8320 | rachel.potts@okstate.edu