KU announces the 2021 Student Employee of the Year
LAWRENCE — The University Career Center has announced the 2020-2021 Student Employee of the Year (SEOTY) as Logan Bell, of Lenexa, who works for the University of Kansas Office of First-Year Experience, now the Office of Orientation and Transfer Programs (OTP). Throughout his KU career, Bell, who is majoring in English, has served the office in several capacities such as orientation assistant, peer mentor for a learning community and as the student assistant.
The SEOTY award recognizes student employees who embody service excellence, dedication and whose academic achievements remain exceptional. Bell received an engraved plaque and a $500 award. Additionally, he was selected as the State of Kansas Student Employee of the Year and will be entered into the National Student Employee of the Year competition.
“Logan is a pillar of our team. Logan leads with empathy, compassion and assurance, all while being his authentic self,” said Natalie Sextro, administrative associate and Bell's supervisor. “We wholeheartedly value Logan’s ability to make work more enjoyable while achieving all of our goals.”
Forty-two students were nominated for this year’s award. A team of volunteer reviewers selected five finalists, including the winner. Additional finalists:
- Bhroovi Gupta, KU Marketing Communications, majoring in design
- Ryan Wendling, Department of Economics, majoring in economics
- Paige Simpson, Business Communication Center, majoring in supply chain management
- Preston Barley, Legal Services for Students, graduate student in accounting
The nominees were recognized during a virtual ceremony April 13. During the awards ceremony, Susan Klusmeier, vice provost for academic success, shared her appreciation for student workers.
“Student employees perform invaluable services with enthusiasm, dedication, flexibility, and initiative,” she said. “Student employees make KU a very special place to work.”
More information about the SEOTY program is available at the Student of the Year website.