On May 8, the Division of Student Life recognized exceptional contributions of staff and campus partners at the annual Inspiring Excellence Awards ceremony, held at the Willa Cather Dining Center. The event celebrated 11 individuals and two campus departments for their commitment to creating a supportive and empowering environment for Nebraska students.
The awards reflect the core values of Student Life — Collaborate, Connect, Cultivate, Include, Innovate and Lead — and honor those who go above and beyond to make a lasting impact on campus. In addition to the individual honors, the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Campus Impact recognized a department that made a significant difference in the student experience and campus community over the past year.
2025 Inspiring Excellence Award Honorees
Collaborate:
- Center for Academic Success and Transition (CAST)
Connect:
- Allie Woolworth, Residence Life
- Melissa Wulf, Services for Students with Disabilities
Cultivate:
- JD McCown, Gender and Sexuality Center
- Reshell Ray, Student Leadership, Involvement & Community Engagement
- Brigham Scott, Counseling and Psychological Services
Include:
- Jordan Messerer, Campus Recreation
- Kylie Qiu, Counseling and Psychological Services
Innovate:
- Jamil Funnah, TRIO
- Cole McKane, Residence Life
Lead:
- Bailey Benson, Residence Life
- Cheryl Duncan, Housing
Vice Chancellor’s Award for Campus Impact:
- Student Life Business Services
Congratulations to the honorees for their outstanding service, leadership and dedication to student success.
