Olivet Nazarene University recently recognized senior Thomas Dinkleman as Student Employee of the Year and Chelsea Speas ‘13/’18 M.B.A. as Student Employment Supervisor of the Year for 2017–2018.
In addition, the awards ceremony celebrated the value and contribution of Olivet students who worked in the 1,241 student jobs on campus during the 2017–2018 academic year. Distinguished guest who attended the ceremony was Dr. Stanley Bhebhe, vice-chancellor of Africa Nazarene University, Nairobi, Kenya.
“Our student employees are critical for the work we do at Olivet,” said Dr. David Pickering ’89/’94 M.B.A./’16 D.B.A., executive vice president for administration and human resources, during the awards ceremony. “While on the job, they also receive career development benefits, earn money and discover friendships that last a lifetime.”
Thomas Dinkleman is a senior graphic design major from Hillsdale, Michigan. He is a student employee in the Office of Marketing and Engagement for web and print design, creating logos, photography, videography, animation, music composition and general office work.
Thomas’s supervisors — Luke Olney ’10/’12 M.O.L., associate director of strategic engagement, and Laura Warfel, PR specialist — said in their nomination of Thomas: “Thomas is a positive, upbeat member of the office team. It has been a pleasure to watch him mature into a confident professional. His willingness to tackle whatever needs to be done is inspiring to the rest of our staff. It is obvious that he loves his work and enjoys the people he is working with. He is an excellent collaborator and team player, and he jumps at any opportunity to be creative.”
Chelsea Speas serves as Olivet’s associate director for student life and recreation. An interesting fact: in 2013, she was honored as Olivet’s Student Employee of the Year.
Student employee and junior Michaela Comer said in her nomination of Chelsea: “Ms. Speas is a strong leader who balances the different opinions and personalities of those working with her. I am impressed with her ability to handle both the social and technical aspects of running the Perry Student Life and Recreation Center. She is attentive and responsive to the needs of the building and its employees. I am impressed with her insightful advice and commitment to her job. She has become a role model for me.”
Alyssa (Eilders) Bass ’13 manages all student employees and the presentation of both awards. Nominations came from students, staff and faculty members in recognition of nominees for attributes, expectations, leadership/style and impact to their department or office.
To learn more about how student employment opportunities benefit Olivet students, contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@olivet.edu or 800-648-1463.
Published: 4/18/2018
