OU Recognizes Student Workers During National Student Employment Week
For the first time since 2006, members of the University of Oklahoma community will join the National Student Employment Association to celebrate on- and off-campus student employees through a week-long celebration – National Student Employment Week.
Scheduled to take place April 12-18, the week is an opportunity to recognize student employees for the invaluable services they provide.
“While thanking students for their hard work and dedication is always valuable, it is especially so this year, considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Mari-Ann Stumblingbear, OU’s federal work study coordinator. “We rely on our student employees so much, but we sometimes forget to recognize or thank them for being there to help us. Let’s celebrate them and show them that we appreciate everything they’re doing.”
The OU National Student Employment Week Committee, comprised of multiple OU students, created a list of items individuals, campus departments and academic colleges can give to their student employees as a way to thank them throughout the week.
- Monday – Sweet (something sweet to brighten the student employee’s day)
- Tuesday – Crimson & Cream/OU (a simple gift with an OU logo or colors to spread the Sooner spirit)
- Wednesday – A Favorite Color (something special in the student employee’s favorite color)
- Thursday – Energizing (a coffee/tea/smoothie/snack for a boost in the student worker’s day)
- Friday – Thank You Note (a written note or letter to show student employees your appreciation)
The weeklong celebration will culminate with a banquet on Saturday, April 17, honoring the 14 OU students who were nominated for the National Student Employee of the Year program. These nominations were gathered from on-campus departments and academic colleges and also off-campus employers.
“It’s amazing how the departments are able to absolutely rely on these students,” Stumblingbear said. “When I was reading the nominations, I was like, ‘Wow, why aren’t these people working full time for us?’ It alleviates a lot of stress for staff that they can rely on the student employees to do their jobs well.”
Article Published: Wednesday, April 7, 2021