Going Above and Beyond: Student Employees of the Month for February and March

Every month, the Department of Mathematics recognizes student employees that are “exceptional and valuable members” of the department. This is a new program, created last year by the department, to recognize the hard work of our student employees. Nominated for going above and beyond in their roles, here are the recipients for February and March’s Student Employees of the Month Award.

Hope T.

Hope is an Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) for Math 129 and has worked for the department for 6 semesters now. With a plan to teach math in high school after graduating, Hope is majoring in Neuroscience & Cognitive Science, and Applied Math. “I enjoy getting teaching and tutoring experiences on the regular,” Hope shared, “This has allowed me to gain skills that are valuable for my future career. Everyday is different, and I am always having new and interesting conversations with students.”

Nominated by Michael Gilbert, an instructor here in the department, he notes that “Hope has been doing the lion's share of the work for the biweekly student problem sessions. I think she deserves some recognition for all of the hard work she has been doing for Math 129. I really have a hard time believing that anyone is more deserving of this award than Hope.”

A fun fact about Hope is that she likes to tap dance!

Jayde V.

Jayde works for the Center for Recruitment and Retention of Math Teachers (CRR) as a Data Systems assistant. She has been working for the department for a little over 7 months now and is currently a Business Management major in the Eller College of Management, eventually aiming to transition into a Management Information Systems major. She has always been interested in data and hopes to apply the skills she’s developed at CRR to her future career.

“I value knowing that my role within the CRR is integral to our ability to run the workshops, programs, and events we offer”, Jayde shared, “I also appreciate the supportive work environment the CRR provides… Knowing that I am valued beyond just being an employee motivates me every day.”

Jayde was nominated by Shanna Gray, a teacher, mentor, and presenter with the CRR. Shanna notes that Jayde “ is very thoughtful with her communication and makes sure that people not only walk away with the resources they need but also feel taken care of because of her collaborative demeanor. During the CRR's massive annual math teacher conference, she helped to coordinate the online sessions and volunteers. Her knowledge of the software program we used for registration allowed her to almost single-handedly troubleshoot the event's Zoom help desk. There is no doubt that all our current systems will benefit directly from her viewpoint.”

Fun fact, Jayde plays the flute and has been part of the Tucson Flute Club for over 2 years!

Lauren G.

Lauren has worked for the department for 2 years and is currently an Admin & Proctoring Coordinator for Math 100. She is majoring in music education and hopes to get a Master’s in Music Therapy for special education students after graduation. “What I enjoy most about my job is that I get to help and support both students and staff of Math 100,” Lauren noted, “I also love how team-oriented and goal-driven my job is because it makes the work feel even more purposeful.”

Lauren was nominated by the Math 100 team. “Lauren has a joyous spirit that is infectious. No matter the task, she brings positivity and a can-do attitude,” shared Math 100 Coordinator, Michelle Woodward, “Once given a task, she takes responsibility and ensures it is done correctly. We are so grateful to have Lauren on our team!”

Additionally, Katie Horan, Assistant Coordinator of Math 100, notes, “In the time that Lauren has worked with Math 100, she has demonstrated an impeccable work ethic. She is one of our main go-to people for student chats, and the care she brings to working with our students is evident in her timely and thoughtful replies. She is always finding ways to make sure that students feel heard and supported. She also helps to mentor new APS and is a leader among her peers.”

In her free time, Lauren loves to crochet and is currently working on a tote bag with flowers.

Congratulations to these outstanding students. Thank you Hope, Jayde, and Lauren for all that you do! Your contributions to our department are immeasurable, and the dedication you show in your roles is truly admirable.