Thank you to everyone who participated in the nomination process to recognize this year’s OA Stars. The honorees will be recognized at the OA Council’s Fall Listening Session. The honorees will receive a certificate and have already enjoyed a seat in the presidential suite at a home football game earlier this season.
Officers of administration selected to receive OA Star Awards excel not only in their positions and departments but also embody a spirit of collegiality and vision, working with peers and partners across departmental and divisional lines. They strive for continuous improvement and look to build relationships and solutions that improve the university for all stakeholders.
Below is the full list of this year’s award winners.
Cecile A. Gadson
Dr. Gadson is a licensed psychologist and the African American and Black Student Specialist at the University of Oregon Counseling Services. Dr. Gadson is an inspiration in the effort she has put into making connections, network, and work collaboratively with campus and community partners and agencies to develop programming and resources to support university student health, well-being, and success.
Cody Weaver
Cody is the definition of a relationship builder who is able to build strong working relationships beyond his department, encompassing colleagues, contractors, vendors, and industry professionals. His collaborative, thoughtful, and caring approach in all communications helps build a more positive and supportive campus environment.
Emma Bjorngard Basayne
Through a holistic approach to advising, Emma is making an impact on the lives of many by consistently going above and beyond expectations. She is a beloved advisor in the COE who advises and coaches students through difficult decisions around academic, professional, and sometimes personal issues.
Evey Lennon
Evey is a leader who is a forward-thinking individual who has worked to push the library into the future of its versatility, adaptability, and fiscal consciousness. Every is the epitome of a creative, positive, and collegial partner and it comes through in the results she is able to achieve on a regular basis.
Jonathan Jacobs
In a challenging year for enrollment and financial aid, Jonathan helped create financial models that enabled the University of Oregon to deliver more scholarships to deserving students. These scholarships were critical to keep UO competitive and help students finance their dreams.
Luis Ruiz
Luis’s work with study abroad scholarships highlight his efforts to ensure opportunities for historically marginalized groups. His assistance to students eligible for the Gilman scholarship – exclusively for Pell Grant students – stands out. He meets one-on-one with students to advise on the requirements, provide guidance on applications, and follow up as needed. Due to his efforts, UO consistently ranks among the top ten Gilman-awarded universities, among larger institutions like UCLA and NYU.
Nick Mahlum
Nick’s exceptional work at the School of Journalism and Communication (SOJC) is making a profoundly positive impact on our campus. His dedication to creating a welcoming and efficient environment for both current and prospective employees is unparalleled. During the interview process, Nick consistently goes above and beyond to ensure candidates feel valued and at ease.
Patty Smith
Patty Smith serves as the Executive Assistant within the Department of Physical Education and Recreation and is a vital member of the department’s Leadership Team. She thrives in her role within the department, she brings people together and inspires them to do their best.
Congratulations to this year’s Stars and thank you for your contributions to our community!