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 17, 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.

“MSU Denver is filled with talented and forward-thinking individuals, and when Roadrunners band together as this week’s winners have, there are no limitations to what can be accomplished,” said Michael Benitez, Ph.D., vice president for Diversity and Inclusion.

Faculty winner – Marina Gorlach, Ph.D., professor, English

Nominated by Ginger Schlote, student, who wrote:

“Professor Gorlach is an excellent teacher who puts her all into making sure her students know and understand the subject: namely, linguistics. I have taken several classes with her and am now taking Historical Linguistics. She maintains high standards, which I believe are necessary and desirable for people who choose to succeed in life after their formal education is completed.”

Marina, thank you for your unrelenting commitment to student success. It’s no wonder Roadrunners have a reputation for rising as community leaders when they have a role model like you supporting their academic journeys.    

Staff winner – Kaycee Gerhart, director, Legislative Affairs

Nominated by Will Simpkins, Ed.D., vice president of Student Affairs, who wrote:

“Kaycee Gerhart, in just a few short months, has absolutely lifted MSU Denver’s profile within the state legislature. She has ensured that our team members are visible at the Capitol and that important bills that allow test-optional admissions, professional licensure for our undocumented graduates and increased funding for the University make it through. Moreover, Kaycee is always willing to lend a hand, organize events and support team members as they engage the community. She truly embodies the Roadrunner difference, and I’m so thankful that she works at MSU Denver!”

Kaycee, you are truly a Roadrunner rock star. Thank you for being a student advocate and helping build an equitable environment for our scholars.

Student-employee winner – Michael Wickham, diversity project assistant, Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Nominated by Manuel Del Real, Ph.D., executive director of Hispanic-Serving Institution, on behalf of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, who wrote:

“The ODI would like to give a shoutout to our diversity projects assistant, Michael Wickham, for all his hard work updating and transitioning our ODI and HSI websites. Since he started in fall 2020, he has assisted with the development and implementation of diversity programs, services and research. We appreciate Michael for all his contributions to our office.”

Michael, you have been an invaluable asset to the MSU Denver community. Thank you for sharing your talents, and we applaud your ability to successfully balance your Psychology studies while excelling in your role with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

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.