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

June 10, 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.

“It’s clear to see MSU Denver’s CADRE values in action when looking at the daily contributions of this week’s winners,” said Christine Márquez-Hudson, vice president of Advancement and executive director of the Foundation. “It is so heartening to learn how these Roadrunners are using their talents to lift up others.”

Faculty winner – Margaret Frisbee, Ph.D., associate professor, History

Nominated by Emily Johnson, student employee, who wrote:

“Professor Frisbee is a wonderful teacher who brings excitement and interaction to class, especially now during a time when this is so difficult to do. She is patient with students and takes time to answer all of their questions. She puts an emphasis on understanding the content, not just knowing what the answer is. Professor Frisbee makes class exciting, and even though her class is just a requirement to cross off of a list, I am excited to log in to class and interact with a professor who is both caring and attentive to the needs and learnings of their students!”

Margaret, thank you for motivating students and inspiring them to excel in their studies. The passion you bring to the classroom is contagious, and MSU Denver is lucky to have an educator like you. (Since we couldn't find a photo of you, here is one of Rowdy applauding your achievement!)

Staff winner – Sheriff Rasheed, accessibility coordinator, Access Center

Nominated by Melissa Cermak, Ph.D., associate director, Access Center, who wrote:

“Sheriff is a passionate and caring member of the Access Center team. He is a strong advocate for individuals with disabilities, particularly when it comes to the transition to college and equitable hiring practices. Sheriff oversees the Access Center’s participation in the Workforce Recruitment Program, helping MSU Denver students with disabilities connect with potential employers. He’s partnered with the C2 Hub to provide a training on inclusive hiring practices. Sheriff also leads the Access Center’s Supportive Transition Education Program, facilitating a workshop series for high school students with disabilities and their parents that provides valuable information on the transition to college. When it comes to working with students, he is an exceptional advocate for accessibility and meeting the accommodation needs of students. On a personal note, Sheriff’s smile and laughter brighten our team meetings. It is a joy to work with such a hardworking and dedicated team member.”

Sheriff, thank you for your advocacy and tireless dedication to building an equitable learning environment and a better campus culture. Your efforts to help Roadrunners navigate their roads to success are deeply appreciated.

Student-employee winner – Mikaela Mudge, learning assistant, Chemistry and Biochemistry

Nominated by Shailesh Ambre, Ph.D., assistant professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry, who wrote:

“Mikaela is an excellent Learning Assistant and a wonderful person whom my students genuinely love for all the great work she does for the class. Mikaela started as an LA for my Organic Chemistry I class in fall 2020 when I was starting fresh as an assistant professor at MSU Denver and was a great help at managing a large class at the peak of the pandemic. She has continued with me, again as an LA, this semester for both OChem I and II. Her pleasant personality and friendly, approachable nature draw many students to her office hours, where she patiently helps them work through complex organic-chemistry problems, answers their questions and soothes their many anxieties. Organic chemistry can be pretty intimidating, and I appreciate all her help in keeping the class motivated and lively. Mikaela has completed her Bachelor of Science in Lifestyle Medicine, minor in Pre-health, in December 2020 and is currently applying to medical schools.”

Mikaela, you have displayed true leadership by supporting the growth of your peers while maintaining a commitment to your own academic journey. This quality will serve you well in medical school. MSU Denver looks forward to celebrating your future successes. (Since we couldn't find a photo of you, here is one of Rowdy applauding 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.