Student Employee Supervisor of the Year 2026

Student Employee Supervisor of the Year Awards

The Student Employee Supervisor of the Year program recognizes supervisors who demonstrate exceptional commitment to mentoring, supporting and developing student employees.ÌýÌý

Nominated by student employees, supervisors are evaluated based on key pillars of effective supervision:ÌýÌý

  • Professional developmentÌý

  • Meaningful workÌý

  • Flexibility and empathy

  • Communication and supportÌý

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These supervisors play an essential role in shaping student experiences, helping them build confidence, develop career-ready skills and feel supported both academically and personally.

2026 Award Recipients

Macy JonesÌýÌý

Program Coordinator, New Student & Family ProgramsÌýÌý

91´ó»ÆѼ Macy

Macy is recognized for creating an environment where students are empowered to grow both professionally and personally. Through intentional mentorship and inclusive leadership, she consistently connects students to meaningful opportunities that build confidence and long-term skills.ÌýÌý

One student nomination highlighted her commitment to professional development through hands-on experiences and leadership opportunities that extend beyond everyday responsibilities. In particular, the student described being given the opportunity to help plan and present at a major campus event, gaining exposure to public speaking and leadership in a supportive setting:ÌýÌý

“After getting experience presenting an event like the Marinus Smith Awards, presenting a class project or speaking in class feels easy and I have much more confidence to do so.â€ÌýÌý

Her flexibility and empathy were also described as deeply impactful, prioritizing student well-being and creating a supportive environment. Through strong communication and a genuine investment in each student’s success, Macy has built a workplace rooted in trust, growth and belonging.Ìý

Macy Jones headshot

Madeline AzariÌýÌýÌý

Coordinator for Student Leadership Development, Residence Life

91´ó»ÆѼ Madeline

Madeline is recognized for her intentional and transformative leadership style, blending strategic mentorship with genuine care for student well-being. As coordinator for student leadership development in Residence Life, she creates an environment where students are challenged to grow while feeling fully supported.ÌýÌý

A student’s nomination highlighted her commitment to professional development by emphasizing how she helps students understand the purpose behind their work and connect it to their broader growth. In particular, the student described how Madeline guided them through leadership responsibilities using structured frameworks and reflective conversations, building both confidence and clarity in their role:ÌýÌý

“She doesn’t just tell you what to do—she teaches you why it matters, how it fits into a larger framework and how to grow through the process.â€ÌýÌý

Her flexibility and empathy were also described as essential to the student experience, allowing students to balance academic responsibilities with leadership roles. Through open communication and a student approach, Madeline has created a supportive environment that empowers students to develop as confident leaders and professionals.Ìý

Madeline Azari headshot

Honorable Mentions

George AllisonÌý

Senior IT Security Analyst, Office of Information TechnologyÌý

91´ó»ÆѼ George

George is recognized for his strong mentorship and commitment to helping students build both technical and professional confidence within the Office of Information Technology. Through a supportive and approachable leadership style, he creates an environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions, take initiative and grow through experience.ÌýÌý

One student nomination highlighted his commitment to professional development by emphasizing how he prioritizes teaching and understanding over simply providing answers. In particular, the student described how George takes time to walk through challenges, helping them build independence and confidence in their skills:ÌýÌý

“He consistently takes time to explain concepts thoroughly and walks us through challenges rather than just giving answers.â€ÌýÌý

His ability to delegate meaningful work aligned with the students’ academic interests allows them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. Combined with clear communication and a supportive environment, George fosters a workplace where students feel valued, capable and prepared for future opportunities.ÌýÌý

George Allison headshot

Daniel HesseliousÌý

Director at Flight Operations, Flight Operations, Division of Public SafetyÌý

91´ó»ÆѼ Daniel

Daniel is recognized for his dedication to student growth through hands-on opportunities and strong advocacy within Flight Operations in the Division of Public Safety. He creates pathways for students to gain real-world experience while actively supporting their professional development.ÌýÌý

One student nomination highlighted his impact by emphasizing how he consistently advocates for students and connects them to meaningful opportunities that expand their exposure and experience. In particular, the student described how his support opened doors that would not have otherwise been accessible:ÌýÌý

“This advocacy has opened doors to additional opportunities and professional exposure that I would not have otherwise received.â€ÌýÌý

Through the delegation of meaningful, high-impact work, Daniel empowers students to take ownership of their roles and develop both technical and leadership skills. His flexibility and clear communication further support students in balancing their academic and professional responsibilities, creating an environment where they can grow with confidence and purpose.Ìý

Daniel Hesselious headshot

Together, these supervisors exemplify the impact of strong student employment leadership at CU Boulder. Their commitment to mentorship, support and student success continues to shape meaningful and transformative experiences across campus.Ìý