Nominations continue to roll in for Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Roadrunner Shoutout of the Week awards, highlighting the excellent and important work happening at all levels of the University. This week, we celebrate three members of our University community who inspire students and their colleagues.
“Each time I get to read Roadrunner Shoutout of the Week nominations, I am so inspired and energized,” said President Janine Davidson, Ph.D. “People at this University truly care about each other, about our students and about our mission. I am honored to work alongside you all.”
Faculty winner — Megan E. Filbin, Ph.D., associate professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Nominated by Liheng Zhou, student research assistant for Chemistry and Biochemistry, who wrote:
“Dr. Filbin is the most passionate professor I have ever known. I feel so lucky to be her research student; I’m always encouraged by her, and I’ve witnessed the same effect in all of the students around her. She always says, ‘Let’s go ahead and try it!’ which allows us to feel comfortable in sharing our ideas. She never turns students down and makes time however she can. She always goes above and beyond offering help. Moreover, she is the best listener. There was a time that I faced some family issues, and she just quietly walked with me and listened to me talk, and I felt extremely supported and understood.
“In her interactions with faculty, I always see her smiling. If there are faculty who invite her to student presentations, she tries to make time and actively participate and gives feedback. She has invited journal article authors to MSU Denver to talk about their research experience. This gives us opportunities to learn something that is totally outside of the normal scope of her classes. She is very passionate about her job, especially research. My words can’t represent how good she is, but I just want to say, she is a friend, a professor, a listener, a mentor — she is worth it.”
Also nominated by Julie Lee, student research assistant for Chemistry and Biochemistry, who wrote:
“It’s my honor to nominate Dr. Megan Filbin to the Roadrunner Shoutout. I have had the privilege to take CHEM 4350 and work as a research assistant in her lab. She goes above and beyond as a professor and a mentor. She is always enthusiastic when teaching science and never begrudges questions students ask even if they are basic concepts. She also encourages students to challenge themselves, make mistakes to think outside of the box and go beyond their limits. She actively provides and informs her students of a lot of opportunities (such as science conferences, panels and internships) so that they can get a wide variety of experience in the field as an undergraduate. Moreover, she demonstrates what a scientist should look like and inspires students to do more than they thought they were capable of. Her dedication and leadership truly show how highly she regards her students, and she exemplifies the perfect candidate for this Roadrunner Shoutout.”
Megan, this praise from your students speaks volumes about your skill as an educator and mentor. Thank you for going above and beyond to invest in Roadrunners and prepare them for bright futures.
Staff winner — Anna Rocha, transfer evaluator in the Registrar’s Office
Nominated by Camden Farmer, associate registrar in the Registrar’s Office, who wrote:
“Anna has been valuable in the implementation and testing of the new transfer-evaluation workflows. Her knowledge about internal processes gave her a unique voice when it came to mapping out the requirements for these projects. She is someone whom the entire transfer team can rely on to help out when help is needed. She faces each day with a pleasant demeanor and is able to pivot quickly if something urgent needs attention. She is a valuable member of the Transfer and Registrar’s teams. If there is a strong, silent type, Anna embodies this trope. Her sense of humor is always welcome in team meetings and provides much-needed enjoyment to our team. Thank you, Anna, for your work and your service to MSU Denver!”
Anna, your hard work, can-do attitude and calming presence have proved to be invaluable. Thank you for working tirelessly to support students and co-workers. You are deeply appreciated.
Student-employee winner — Karen Alvarez, fraternity- and sorority-life student coordinator in the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion
Nominated by Diana Ibarra, assistant director of Donor Relations in University Advancement, who wrote:
“Karen Alvarez had an essential role in helping plan the Fraternity and Sorority Life Yard Show, which had over 300 attendees. She is invested in helping the fraternities and sororities on campus excel by providing the organization’s resources for their success. She is a role model for other students on campus. Karen has also supported the establishment of the Multicultural Greek Council at MSU Denver, which is the governing body for culturally based fraternities and sororities at the University. She goes above and beyond her responsibilities and deserves recognition for all her hard work.”
Karen, you are a shining example of Roadrunner spirit, and we couldn’t be prouder to call you a member of the MSU Denver community. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication.
To nominate outstanding employees for the Roadrunner Shoutout of the Week award, please complete the form on the Roadrunner Shoutout of the Week webpage. Tell us how your nominee is making an impact through great teaching, service to students or innovation. Winners will be selected each week and profiled in the Early Bird on Thursdays. Winners will also get a shoutout on social media.
