Lindenwood University holds its annual awards ceremony to celebrate the staff and faculty who go above and beyond to support the University’s mission.

Lindenwood President Dr. John R. Porter opened the ceremony by addressing the crowd. “Each of you plays a vital role in our University’s success,” said Porter. “Through your daily work, your unwavering support for one another, and your dedication to our students, you bring our mission to life.” 

Following the opening remarks, the University recognized employees celebrating five, 10, 20, and 30 years of service. Honorees were presented with pins to commemorate their service to the University. 

Staff awards were presented by Staff Council Chair Whitney Woltman, Staff Council Awards and Recognition Chair Chris Smentkowski, and Senior Vice President for Human Resources Dr. Deb Ayres. 

  • The Behind the Scenes Award was presented first. Given to a staff member who does not directly interact with students, this award recognizes an employee who provides the highest quality of service to the Lindenwood community. Web Strategy and Development Manager Jason Waack accepted the award. Waack was praised for his “dedication, reliability, and incredible work ethic,” adding, “Lindenwood is stronger because of his quiet leadership and unwavering commitment to service.”
  • The Staff Service Award honors a staff member who has exhibited the highest level of service. Reference Services Manager Leah Rosenmiller won the award. Some of Rosenmiller’s acts of service include transitioning to the Lindenwood Showcase and support of EdD students. Smetkowski said, “Leah has dedicated countless hours of service embedded in classrooms across Lindenwood, becoming an integral part of both faculty teaching success and student achievement.” 
  • The Real Experience. Real Success. Award honors a staff member’s quality of work, degree of initiative, dependability, and leadership qualities. The award was presented to Associate Vice President of Advising and Retention Experience Dr. Kevin Manley. Woltman highlighted Manley’s commitment to the success of students, faculty, and staff, saying he has a “deep belief in people, especially during moments when they need encouragement most.”
  • The Rookie of the Year Award, given to a staff member in their first year of service at the University, was presented to Social Media Specialist Isabella Castro. “Bella made an immediate and extraordinary impact in her first year, completely transforming Lindenwood’s social media presence,” said Smetkowski. “Bringing fresh energy, creativity, and a strong strategic vision, she has dramatically increased visibility (in some cases even tripling year-over-year engagement!).” 
  • Student Experience Program Manager Paris Suzuki took the stage to announce the First Year Impact Award winner. Field and Clinical Experiences Coordinator Jodi Petersen won the award “for the extraordinary dedication she brings to supporting new students.” Suzuki added, “she works tirelessly to place every student in their practicum hours, turning what could be a stressful and confusing process into one that feels smooth, organized, and accessible.” 

The final staff awards were presented by Employee Development Director Dr. Brittany Brown.  

  • The Q2 Service Excellence Award celebrates a staff member who puts students first through meaningful actions, support, and service. Online Student Advisor Brittany Barber received the award. Barber’s work on the InScribe platform, alongside her teamwork and dedication to students, was highlighted. “Brittany demonstrates an exceptional commitment to student success through her kindness, approachability, and unwavering support for both students and colleagues,” said Brown. 
  • Lastly, the Q2 Culture Champion Award, which recognizes employees who actively support their colleagues, was selected through a raffle of employees who submitted Q2 Moments. Online Student Advisor Mackenzie Fenton took home the prize. 

Closing the event, Ayres said, “today is a celebration of the dedication, passion, and heart you bring to Lindenwood each and every day.” These seven members of staff stood out among a crowd of 447. Their commitment to the University’s values and service allows the University to continue enhancing lives through quality education and professional preparatory experiences.