Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Roadrunner Shoutout series highlights the excellent and important work happening at all levels of the University. Nominations are always accepted and encouraged. Winners are recognized at the monthly President’s Cabinet meeting. Congratulations to the following Roadrunners!
April Roadrunner Shoutout Winners pose with Marie Mora, Ph.D., interim provost
Faculty winner
Shawna Farrell, Ph.D., MSW, lecturer in the Department of Social Work
Nominated by Chase Hagen, a student in the Department of Social Work, who wrote:
“Dr. Farrell has demonstrated outstanding leadership, collaboration and social work values in her faculty role. Her compassion and willingness to meet students at their level are exemplary. Her knowledge of social work and its application to various environments is clearly demonstrated in her teachings. She fosters great relationships and growth with the students she interacts with. My graduate school experience has been enhanced by learning from Dr. Farrell.”
Staff winner
Rachel Quintana, assistant to the director of the Access Center
Nominated by Melissa Cermak, associate director of the Access Center, who wrote:
“Rachel is the heart and soul of our office. She is often the first contact that students, staff and faculty have with the Access Center. She creates a welcoming and supportive environment for students seeking services. She is friendly, warm, caring and very responsive to students’ needs. She takes the time to get to know students. As a result, our students feel very connected to Rachel. During remote services during the Covid-19 closure, a common comment by students was how much they missed seeing and interacting with Rachel. There isn’t a week that goes by in which a student does not mention how much they enjoy and appreciate Rachel. When it comes to supporting our team, she is organized and always committed to helping us deliver quality services and support to the MSU Denver community. She is a huge asset when it comes to the work we do and is a strong advocate for access and inclusion.”
Student-employee winner
Ashley Vanessa Hernandez, front-desk worker in University Advancement
Nominated by: Amy Reichardt, office manager and student supervisor in University Advancement, who wrote:
“Ashley started in University Advancement as a student worker in the Call Center. She was then hired at the front desk and has graciously and effectively welcomed visitors and guests, supported staff members and been a part of the gift-processing protocol. Her smiling face and friendly nature have made a real difference in the office.
“More importantly, this spring, Ashley has taken it to the next level. She has shared her MSU Denver student story with the MSU Foundation’s Steering Committee, with the Board of Trustees, and has even testified in front of the Colorado General Assembly’s Joint Budget Committee and Education Committee. By stepping up and sharing her story with Colorado leaders and policymakers, Ashley is making sure they know that MSU Denver students are real changemakers and are deserving of funding and support.
“We are thankful for Ashley’s powerful testimonials, and we are also thankful that she is just a great person. She definitely deserves a Roadrunner Shoutout.”