Early Bird

Congrats to our Roadrunner Shoutout of the Week winners

These exceptional faculty, staff and student employees are shining examples of dedication, innovation and excellence.

By Josie Lavender

November 18, 2021

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.

“Not only have these Roadrunners proven to be outstanding professionals in their field, they’ve displayed exceptional leadership within their community,” said President Janine Davidson, Ph.D. “The perseverance, enthusiasm and dedication of this week’s winners deserves recognition.”

Faculty winner – Assaad (Charles) Jabri, affiliate professor of Mathematics and Statistics

Nominated by Elizabeth Ribble, Ph.D., chair of Mathematics and Statistics, who wrote:

“Assaad is a part-time faculty member who treats everyone he encounters with the utmost respect and kindness. He is extremely thoughtful and shows how much he values our staff by greeting them warmly each morning, regularly thanking them for their work and sometimes treating them with small gifts. He cares for our students and their success and goes out of his way to make sure everyone feels like they are included. Students have praised his patience and how attentive he is to their needs. When students have expressed that they are not too excited to be learning math, or that they think they are not good at math, Assaad strives to involve and engage them in the class. He is often successful in helping them realize their potential and that math can be fun. Assaad’s contributions to the department and unwavering support of MSU Denver students are recognized and appreciated!”

Assaad, you are truly an inspiration. Thank you for being such a valuable member of the MSU Denver community and for your commitment to our CADRE values. (Since we couldn't find a photo of you, here is one of Rowdy celebrating your achievement!)

Staff winner – Kellie Zolnikov, lecturer and STEM coordinator of Supplemental Instruction, Mathematics and Statistics

Nominated by Erika Lynn, administrative coordinator in Mathematics and Statistics, who wrote:

“Kellie is such an important teammate within our Mathematics and Statistics Department! She wears many hats, serving students in her class, students who come into the office for help, and helps faculty with all sorts of questions and situations – all doing it with a smile on her face and an awesome attitude. We wouldn’t be who we are without her! We also really appreciate her taste in music. :-)

Thank you for all you do, Kellie!”

Also nominated by Elizabeth Ribble, P.D., chair of Mathematics and Statistics, who wrote:

“Kellie is an exemplary staff member who has been with the Department of Mathematics and Statistics for almost eight years. She does everything that is asked of her, even if something is not in within the normal scope of her job, and does not hesitate to ask, ‘How can I help?’ when she sees others in need. The faculty members know they can always go to her for questions about anything related to prerequisites, testing and general department support

“The students in Kellie’s classes say that she is friendly, accommodating, accessible, helpful, patient, understanding, organized, etc. (I could go on and on.) The students see that Kellie truly wants them to succeed and say that she provides the tools for them to do so. What more could you want from a math teacher?

“Kellie is always smiling and willing to share a laugh with you, even when things get tough. She treats everyone with respect and goes the extra mile every day to ensure that students and her co-workers are well taken care of. The department faculty and staff are extremely fortunate to be able to call Kellie our colleague.”

And nominated by Edom Eshete, student, who wrote:

“Her personality is so nice, smart; she could be a great example for female students like me! Working with her is so fun, and she always helps me whenever I have questions about work. She is very passionate about what she is doing. She loves helping students!”

Kellie, it’s clear that you’ve made a long-lasting impression on students and co-workers. Thank you for going above and beyond to support students and our University mission.

Student-employee winner – Yami Venzor Orona, student assistant in Nutrition

Nominated by Samantha Carter, academic coordinator in Nutrition, who wrote:

“Yami has been my student assistant at MSU Denver for five months and has impressed me every day. One of her many impressive qualities is her high emotional intelligence, which makes her a great employee, student, and an even better person. Yami is a problem-solver and takes initiative. The list of responsibilities that she takes on for MSU Denver’s Nutrition Department is extensive. She is a kind, positive, hardworking young woman who is determined to do what is best, not only for herself but for those around her as well. Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious.”

Yami, it’s clear that you are not only a wonderful student employee but also a wonderful person. Be sure to save this Shoutout for your portfolio so future employers can see what an asset you are. (Since we couldn't find a photo of you, here is one of Rowdy celebrating your achievement!)

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.