Cindy DeRyke, graduate secretary in the Department of Educational Administration , has been named the recipient of the latest Staff Star Award by the College of Education and Human Sciences Staff Council.
In her role, DeRyke helps graduate students manage the process of applying to graduate programs in the department. She also helps students stay on track toward program completion. According to her nominator’s, DeRyke’s kindness and support is instrumental in their success.
“Every time I email her, or we speak on the phone, she is so kind and approachable. Even though we’ve never met in person, she remembers who I am and makes an effort to connect with me,” wrote one student nominator. “If she treats all students the way that she treats me, I have no doubt that she has tremendous impact on the department.”
Helping students throughout their journey in the department is no easy feat, especially when some of those students are facing health issues and other personal challenges. When one of her student nominators had to pause taking classes after being diagnosed with cancer, DeRyke reached out with a note of personal encouragement.
“In that moment, I realized that she truly cared about me, my well-being, was there for me, and that even while being mostly a distance learning student in this program, in her eyes, I was more than just this student who asks questions, requests permission codes, etc.,” the nominator wrote. “A true connection has been built over the years, that provided me with hope when I needed it most!”
The Staff Star Award recognizes staff members who go above and beyond their scope of duties. To nominate a staff member for a Staff Star Award, click here. The next deadline for nominations is October 31.
College of Education and Human Sciences
Educational Administration
CEHS Staff Council
