Outstanding Student Learning Assistant of the Year

Each month an outstanding Student Learning Assistant is chosen by The Learning Center staff.  Making this selection is not an easy task, because each person who participates in The Learning Center’s program is exceptional, both academically and personally.  Student learning assistants provide many different services: walk-in, 1-1 or group tutoring, classroom or lab assisting, class-linked tutoring, peer mentoring and supplemental lab coordinating.  However, specific criteria are considered during the selection process to identify outstanding individuals as candidates for this award.  These criteria include, but are not limited to, consistency of effort, flexibility, initiative, level and/or length of service, effectiveness, quality of work and feedback received from faculty and tutees.  A significant amount of consideration is involved in making this decision and every effort is made to be objective, impartial and inclusive.  This recognition is intended to honor the recipient and acknowledge his or her excellence.

Toward the end of the academic year, an outstanding Student Learning Assistant for the academic year is chosen.  This person will have demonstrated excellence in service, consistency of effort, initiative, effectiveness and dedication to the mission of the Learning Center.  He/she would have been certified at the Master C.R.L.A. level and have a history of longevity, reliability and productivity.

Nathan Harker was selected the Outstanding Student Learning Assistant for 2005 – 2006.  Nathan has done more in the three semesters he has worked for the Learning Center than most would believe possible:  he is a peer mentor and integral part of the Second Start program, a 1-1 and walk-in tutor, and a math lab assistant, accumulating over 130 tutoring hours.  He co-presented with Beth Girling at a recent regional conference, has assumed leadership of a new initiative, a LC newsletter, has volunteered to represent the Learning Center at the upcoming orientation days for incoming students, and is a wonderful role model in balancing academics, several jobs, and an active social and personal life.  Students, faculty and staff have commented on his work ethic and excellent rapport with peers.  We don’t know where he gets his energy, but we’re grateful that he spends so much of it thinking of new and innovative ideas for the Learning Center. 

Nathan embodies the spirit of the Learning Center and we are so pleased to recognize him as the Outstanding Student Learning Assistant for the 2005-06 academic year.