KU announces the 2024 Student Employee of the Year
LAWRENCE — The University Career Center has announced the 2023-2024 Student Employee of the Year (SEOTY) as Daphne Tibbetts, who works for the University of Kansas Department of English in the History of Black Writing (HBW) research center.
Tibbetts, of Auburn, who is double majoring in East Asian languages & cultures and linguistics, began her work with HBW as an archive collection co-coordinator in summer 2022. Her responsibilities include managing archival materials and the archive cataloging process. In addition, Tibbetts also maintains the archive master list, supervises the print book library in the HBW office, plans and scaffolds tasks for student staff, and executes grant requirements.
The SEOTY award recognizes student employees who embody service excellence, dedication, and whose academic achievements remain exceptional. Tibbetts received an engraved plaque and a $500 award.
“Daphne will graduate from KU in May 2024 and leave HBW. To say that we will miss her, both personally and professionally, is an understatement,” said Sarah Lendt, research project manager, and Tibbetts’ supervisor. “She has been a wonderful addition to HBW as she has been a diligent and dependable staff member who has consistently shown great pride and commitment to her work. We appreciate the care, organization and integrity she has brought to HBW’s archive collection.”
Sixty-three students were nominated for this year’s award. A team of volunteer reviewers selected five finalists, including the winner.
Additional finalists
- Elaine Bunten, of Topeka, School of Engineering
- Mady Mikko, of House Springs, Missouri; University Academic Support Centers
- Alden Pennington, of Edwards, Colorado; School of Education & Human Sciences
- Erin Roulston, of Wichita, University Academic Support Centers
The nominees were recognized during a ceremony April 10. During the recognition ceremony, Kim Warren, vice provost for undergraduate education, shared her appreciation for student employees.
“Student workers provide inspiration and sensitivity to others; they contribute to the positive work environments here at the university . . . student employees make KU a better place,” Warren said.
Learn more about the SEOTY program.