OAE Lands Awards at DAESA 2024 Ceremonies

PULLMAN, Wash.— Office of Academic Engagement (OAE) staff and students took home 16 awards at the annual celebration hosted by the Division of Academic Engagement and Student Achievement (DAESA) in the provost’s office of Washington State University.

“We are incredibly proud of all of our awardees,” said Michael Highfill, executive director. “Their exceptional efforts impacted several aspects of our OAE organization this year and made a real difference in our efforts to foster and support student success. Together, they impacted hundreds of students, directly or indirectly.”
Awards and recipients are:

OAE Distinguished Leadership and Service Award

Erin Rapone, finance and administration manager

This award is bestowed infrequently, and recognizes exceptional leadership, service, and dedication over a period of years that creates a lasting impact on the community, supports both students and colleagues, shapes a positive environment, and advances innovation and a culture of excellence. Rapone “holds the staff together, shows everyone how much she cares about the work they share, and engages in nearly every aspect of our operations,” said Highfill. “We are grateful for her dedication.”

OAE Staff Excellence Award

Laurel Schimelfenig, STEM SSS coordinator lead on the College Success Team, and lead for the CRLA Peer Educator Training Program and CSF Achievers

This award recognizes the OAE team member whose exceptional contributions have advanced student success, and who exemplifies the characteristic spirit of the OAE community. First working as a program specialist, Schimelfenig was known for unwavering optimism and dedication; after transitioning to her current roles, she is known for applying her skills to create effective programming, meaningful student support, and commitment to inclusive service.

DAESA Excellence Award

Ali Bretthauer, director of College Success Programs

This division-wide award went to four recipients whose outstanding contributions advanced the mission, vision, and goals of DAESA and impacted faculty, staff, students, and programming. Bretthauer was credited for making a profound difference in the lives of students and her OAE colleagues, directing her units with grace and clear-eyed drive, mentoring two new fellow directors, serving on numerous committees, and helping her units exceed ambitious goals for student persistence, academic achievement, and degree completion.

CRLA Peer Education Training Program Certificates (Levels One and Two)

The international College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) certification program provides a platform for peer educators and mentors to enhance their own knowledge, skills, and capabilities in support of their peers. In the OAE, the certification program equips student staff to engage with and mentor fellow Cougars, respond to those in crisis, and participate in robust evaluations to assess efficacy.

Advanced Certificate Level Two Awards

Krystal Florez, peer advisor for STEM Student Support Services (SSS); majoring in wildlife ecology and conservation
Collin Helsel, peer advisor for Veterans SSS; majoring in criminal justice and criminology
Kaulanie Rivers, peer advisor for Passport to College; majoring in kinesiology

Certificate Level One Awards

Tressa Cook, peer advisor for Teacher Prep SSS; majoring in wildlife ecology and conservation
Elina Day, peer advisor for STEM SSS; majoring in psychology with a minor in art
Lexi Forgue, peer mentor for Dare to Dream; majoring in criminal justice and criminology and psychology with a minor in at-risk youth
Mikayla Fristad, peer advisor for College Affordability Programs; majoring in English
Alexis Hoverson, peer advisor for College Affordability Programs; majoring in anthropology and psychology
Jaylon Lumar, peer mentor for Dare to Dream; majoring in finance and political science
Eduardo Saleta, peer advisor for College Affordability Programs; majoring in genetics and cell biology
Luis Sotelo, peer mentor for Dare to Dream; majoring in criminal justice and comparative ethnic studies
Camael Turner, peer advisor for Passport to College; majoring in social sciences

Information about OAE, its programs, staff, and student success programming is available online.