Student Affairs honored five programs and seven staff members in May for their innovative work, creating a creative and collaborative LMU student experience at the division’s annual Staff EXP Day. Each award honors and recognizes individual contributors and programs that exemplify the five pillars of the LMU Student Experience.
The Student EXP Pillar Awards began last year and were a partnership between Senior Vice President Kawanna Leggett, Ed.D., and the Staff EXP committee to recognize the diligent work and leadership of staff in Student Affairs. Staff from across the division were asked to nominate programs and staff who exemplify the five pillars of the LMU Student Experience.
“Our awards this year represent a wide variety of experience in our division,” said Leggett. “They include some of our newest employees and some who have been dedicated to serving our students for many years. Our program awardees represent key areas where we have been building programs to support student populations, creating immersive experiences, and developing student leaders, all things that are central to our learning outcomes. I am immensely grateful to our recipients for their hard work and dedication as we continue to grow and shape the LMU student experience.”
The Practice Ignatian Values Program Award
The Practice Ignatian Values Program Award was presented to Cesar Chavez Interfaith Service and Workers Appreciation Luncheon led by Claudio Rodriguez from Chicano Latino Student Services. This program is an annual service that celebrates of the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez. It honors the backbone of the university: facilities, maintenance, and Sodexo employees. Students gather alongside the campus staff and have the opportunity to meet and speak with those who oftentimes care for them and embody the LMU community without much explicit appreciation.
The Practice Ignatian Values Staff Award
The Practice Ignatian Values Staff Award was presented to two exceptional staff members: Denise Folga from the Office for International Students and Scholars, and Ron’na Lytle from the Dean of Students office.
Folga has served the international student community at LMU for over 25 years, where she has demonstrated unwavering dedication to supporting our international community and spearheading initiatives that enrich its experience. She serves as a trusted advisor to a service organization and also cultivates a sense of belonging through their work at the Loft. Folga’s exceptional contributions were further recognized last year when she received an award for their outstanding support of international athletes. Embodying the ethos that “Jesuit universities don’t teach you what to think, they teach you how to think,” she exemplifies this by fostering a compassionate mind and an intelligent heart.
Lytle serves as the assistant to the dean of students was recognized for consistently going above and beyond in her commitment to student well-being, embodying the Jesuit principle of care for the whole person. Her advocacy for every student she works with is unwavering, and they exhibit a remarkable loyalty to ensuring that each student thrives at LMU. Lytle’s tireless efforts extend beyond academic success, and she actively addresses injustices students face, providing support, and fostering healing. It is truly inspiring to witness her commitment to nurturing students into compassionate and whole individuals.
The Integrate Mind, Body, and Spirit Award Program Award
The Integrate Mind, Body, and Spirit Program Award was presented to “Grief and Loss Support Group” led by Hung Tran, Psy.D., from Student Psychological Services. On many occasions, the “highs” or moments of celebration are what come to mind, but this program supported students as they navigated some difficult moments. This program is a regularly meeting group that teaches students about the stages of loss, helps them gain coping tools to manage their grief, and builds a community of support and kinship with others around the common subject of loss.
The Integrate Mind, Body, and Spirit Award Staff Award
The Integrate Mind, Body, and Spirit Staff Award was presented to Vanessa Silva from the Office for International Students and Scholars. She continuously advocates for self-compassion and the prioritization of well-being, serving as a beacon of inspiration for those around them. Whether it’s during lunch breaks or after work hours, you’ll often find them at Burns Rec participating in F45 classes, where they not only invest in their own health but also encourage colleagues to join them. Additionally, Silva’s participation in this year’s LMU Management Certificate Program underscores their commitment to personal and professional growth, as they share valuable insights that enhance team dynamics within their department. Her unwavering dedication to health and well-being serves as a poignant reminder that our effectiveness as student affairs professionals is intrinsically linked to our own self-care.
The Commit to Service and Justice Program Award
The Commit to Service and Justice Program Award was presented to the Alternative Breaks program led by Jenni Mendez from the Pam Rector Center for Service and Action. While the program undoubtedly sparks excitement among our students, its true impact shines through in the profound influence it has on LMU’s community partners. These partners consistently commend LMU students for their remarkable level of preparedness and commendable curiosity displayed during their immersion experiences. This year, the AB program significantly expanded its network of partnerships, underscoring the importance of these collaborations both on and off campus. Through these unique partnerships, the program empowers students to engage with cultural differences, embrace new perspectives and lifestyles, and return to LMU equipped to contribute meaningfully to a culture of global citizenship throughout their academic journey and beyond.
The Commit to Service and Justice Staff Award
The Commit to Service and Justice Staff Award was presented to Jayne Mas from Student Health Services. Throughout her career, Mas has dedicated themselves to promoting the health, well-being, and service of our student population and broader community. For nearly three decades, she has been a reliable provider of frontline medical services to LMU students, touching the lives of thousands in the process. Mas’ expertise extends beyond clinical care; they possess a deep understanding of LMU’s mission and have played an integral role in maintaining the department’s high standards of care.
The Become a Global Citizen Program Award
The Become a Global Citizen Program Award was presented to “UndocuEats and CEO Meets: A Culinary Escape in the Heart of L.A.” led by Maria Barragan and Eladio Gonzalez, from Undocumented Student Support Services and Jenni Mendez from the Pam Rector Center for Service and Action. Through this initiative, undocumented students were provided with a safe and enriching space to explore the city where they attend college, alleviating their fears and reshaping their perspectives on travel amidst their unique circ*mstances. By facilitating these experiences, the program enabled students to reimagine what it means to be global citizens, emphasizing that citizenship status does not limit one’s ability to explore and appreciate the diversity of their surroundings.
The Become a Global Citizen Staff Award
The Become a Global Citizen Staff Award was presented to Maria Barragan from USSS. This staff member has truly been an invaluable asset to our campus community. With her expertise and dedication, she took the initiative to establish a department from the ground up, demonstrating exceptional leadership and vision. Through Barragan’s leadership, the department has conducted training to enhance staff and faculty ability to affirm diverse identities, fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. Her role spanning both student and academic affairs highlights their commitment to bridging gaps and ensuring students’ voices are heard and valued. USSS consistently draws significant attendance, showcasing their ability to promote global citizenship at the local level. Their genuine care for the holistic well-being of individuals and their passion for fostering connections are evident in all aspects of their work.
The Live a Life of Purpose Program Award
The Live a Life of Purpose Program Award was presented to “Leading the Pride” led by Sabrina Merritt from Student Leadership and Development. This award-winning program exemplifies LMU’s mission by empowering students to cultivate their leadership skills. “Leading the Pride” brought together student leaders, providing them with a platform to build community, enhance their skills, and effectively manage their respective organizations, all of which are integral to LMU’s campus life. This innovative initiative has undergone significant transformation to better meet the evolving needs of student leaders. Through participation in the program, students not only develop their leadership abilities but also gain a deeper understanding of their purpose as leaders and how to apply it in their roles.
The Live a Life of Purpose Staff Award
The Live a Life of Purpose Program Award was presented to Brianna Goodall from Student Employment Services. She demonstrated remarkable grace and professionalism during a period of significant change within their department. Serving as a vital link between new departmental goals and foundational operations, Goodall navigated the transition with ease and efficiency. As an alumna of the Student Worker Program, she brings a unique perspective to their role, providing empathetic and participative leadership. Goodall’s ability to connect with, mentor, and lead student staff members reflects their dedication to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment. She consistently upholds standards of excellence, displaying unwavering professionalism, and demonstrating a commitment to ongoing personal and professional growth.
The Lion Pride Award
The Lion Pride Award stands as the most esteemed recognition presented by Student Affairs to a dedicated member of the divisional staff. This accolade is bestowed upon individuals whose unwavering efforts have spanned beyond a single academic year, persisting throughout their years at the university.Those honored with the “Lion Pride Award” serve as beacons of inspiration, selflessly devoting their time and skills to enhance the student experience.This year, Kristin Linden, Ph.D., was awarded the prestigious Lion Pride Award in recognition of her exceptional, 18-year career as the director of Student Psychological Services. Throughout her time at LMU, Linden has been a tireless advocate for students in crisis, providing much-needed support and guidance. She consistently goes above and beyond to supportstudents and staff, showcasingher unwavering dedication to mental health advocacy and the well-being of LMU’s student body. Her commitment is exemplified by her willingness to answer calls and provide crucial support after hours, demonstrating her exceptional care and concern for those students who need it most.
