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

April 8, 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 are this week’s winners serving in vital roles within the MSU Denver community, they’re leaders and excellent examples of the Roadrunner spirit,” said Alfred Tatum, Ph.D., provost and vice president for Academic Affairs.

Faculty winner – Jessica Parker, Ph.D., director of First Year Writing and professor of English

Nominated by Jane Chapman Vigil, Ph.D., professor, English, who wrote:

“I feel it’s important to recognize the work that Dr. Parker does for First Year Writing – faculty and students. She’s tireless in her efforts to ensure equity for affiliate faculty. She’s dogged in her concern that students are provided strong learning environments. Students are at the center of everything she does. I have worked closely with Dr. Parker for a decade; I have taught with her, presented with her and published with her. I aspire to become more like her in my classroom, in my dealings with others and especially with my interactions with students.”

Jessica, thank you for being a compassionate and dedicated leader within the University community. MSU Denver is lucky to have a Roadrunner like you.

Staff winner – Matt Watson, staff writer, Strategy, Marketing and Communications

Nominated by Kylie Henson, Special Events coordinator, SMC, who wrote:

“Matt consistently goes above and beyond for the University, and you can tell he truly loves working here. He has a passion for storytelling and consistently showcases the hard work that goes on behind the scenes all over campus, in addition to trends occurring in our community. Matt not only has hands in a multitude of pots, but he does everything with a smile and his trademark humor. He makes work fun! Recently, he’s been writing all of our University event communications, while also writing stories for RED. For example, one of his recent articles in RED, “Passing on standardized testing,” showcased the polarizing nature of standardized tests. Matt is doing essential work for the University that often goes unnoticed. Our team would be lost without him!”

Matt, thank you for tirelessly working to keep Roadrunners and the broader community informed and engaged and for finding new and creative ways to tell the MSU Denver story.

Student-employee winner – Elizabeth Krell, student guide

Nominated by Bryan Ferguson, associate director of Outdoor Pursuits and Leadership Programs, Campus Recreation, who wrote:

“Elizabeth (Lizza) Krell was excited to start her new position at Outdoor Pursuits after applying early last spring. She was enthusiastic about teaching climbing and leading outings. Then the pandemic hit, and all our plans went on hold and our expectations suddenly shifted. Throughout these past months, and presently, Lizza has remained positive, contributing to our new approach to programming at Outdoor Pursuits. She honors and abides by University and program safety policies. She has continually participated in researching, writing, producing and presenting content to engage the MSU Denver community. I appreciate her work as she ‘leans in’ and offers ideas and deliverables at Outdoor Pursuits. Thank you for the opportunity to nominate Lizza.”

Lizza, you are a Roadrunner rock star. Thank you for sharing your passion and enthusiasm with your fellow students and for maintaining a positive attitude through this past year. (Since we couldn't find a photo of you, here is one of Rowdy celebrating your accomplishment!)

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.