Student Employee of the Year

Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year: Cora Lau 

Department: Jumpstart
Job Title: Program Assistant
Major: Liberal Arts for Education 
Career Choice: Teacher

"While there are many positives of working at Jumpstart, the biggest one is that it has afforded me the opportunity to serve communities in need. There are so many kids that we are able to know through this work, which makes it so easy to do this job! I have also been lucky enough to become more familiar with our Jumpstart community at Pepperdine," Cora Lau said. 

"Cora's contributions to Jumpstart have not only helped the program function effectively but have also left a lasting impact on both the university and the surrounding community. One of her most innovative contributions was the creation of the Tiny Hands, Big Hearts event, designed to fulfill Jumpstart's new requirement of engaging 60 volunteers and reaching 120 children. This initiative not only met, but surpassed, Jumpstart's volunteer engagement goals." - Jumpstart

Graduate Student Employee of the Year: Kali de Varennes

Department: Office of the General Counsel
Job Title: Law Clerk
Major: Juris Doctor
Career Choice: Clerk for Federal Judge

"I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside experienced attorneys, legal staff, and other law clerks who have become like a family to me. I have fulfilled a great sense of purpose by working for Pepperdine University and supporting the organization's mission and goals while advancing my legal career. I will never forget my experience working on this team and will miss everyone after I graduate this semester," Kali de Varennes said. 

"Kali has eagerly volunteered to assist with projects and has produced more work than any other clerk I have seen in my tenure in the GC's office. And her help could not have come at a better time, since we have been short staffed in our office, due to parental leaves. She has stepped up in an incredible way, at a time when we really needed the help, to assist us with so many projects that needed to be done. Whenever we put out a request for help, she almost always jumps at the opportunity and delivers work product that is timely and exceptional." - Office of the General Counsel

Excellence in Service: Alyssa Johnson

Department: Office of Student Accessibility
Job Title: Note Taker Data Specialist
Major: Pyschology
Career Choice: Lawyer

"Everybody at work is so positive and supportive, so I'm very grateful to work with them!" Alyssa Johnson said.

"Alyssa has been a bright light to the OSA staff through her commitment to a job well done and her positive attitude. We see her steadfastness in times of crisis, and she gives us hope for the resilience of the next generation. Her influence is felt more broadly as well. She has successfully supported the recruitment and training of over 2,400 peer note-takers during her time with us to date, motivating them with her professionalism, knowledge, and swift attention to their needs. Alyssa is knowledgeable and has a willingness to help OSA. Her dedication to our students is valued and her reliability makes a difference to our office. We appreciate all her hard work!"
- Office of Student Accessibility

Excellence in Leadership: Steven Cordova

Department: RISE
Job Title: Student Lead
Major: Business Administration
Career Choice: International Higher Education

"What I like most about my job are the lessons I've learned from my incredible mentors. Stacey has helped me refine my interpersonal skills, allowing me to navigate workplace relationships with confidence. Sergio has shown me how to incorporate faith into the workplace, reinforcing the importance of values and integrity. Jackie has ensured that my voice is heard while also teaching me the importance of truly listening to others. Their mentorship has shaped my experience in profound ways, and I'm grateful for the lessons they continue to share with me," Steven Cordova said. 

"Steven exudes passion when it comes to mentorship and training other employees. When RISE student employees were given the new responsibility of leading a RISE Together Chapel small group, Steven immediately requested to lead the group of our Summer Bridge students. As a first generation college student himself, he wanted the opportunity to mentor those students. It can take one conversation or one interaction to change a student's experience, and I believe that Steven's care for inclusivity and belonging has made a lasting impact on the students and staff that he has encountered." - RISE

Excellence in Belonging: Ariana Bribiesca

Department: Interculteral Affairs
Job Title: Social Media and Marketing Team
Major: Accounting
Career Choice: Accountant/Auditor

"I love that I am a part of efforts that promote belonging on campus," Ariana Bribiesca said.

"Ariana exemplifies empathy and compassion in her work, consistently prioritizing the voices and experiences of others. She has demonstrated exceptional creativity, leadership, and professionalism in managing our social media and marketing initiatives. Her contributions have significantly elevated our department's visibility and engagement with the Seaver student body." -lntercultural Affairs

Excellence in Technology & Innovation: Anthony Massaro

Department: Advancement Office
Job Title: Advancement Stewardship Coordinator
Major: Integrated Marketing Communications
Career Choice: International Marketing

"I enjoy making a real impact alongside amazing people that meaningfully contribute to the success of the Pepperdine community," Anthony Massaro said. 

"Anthony has gone above and beyond in his role by demonstrating remarkable initiative and adaptability. He quickly mastered the complex Blackboard Awards Management System, streamlining its usage to improve team efficiency. By proactively addressing inefficiencies, Anthony has left a lasting impact on the team's operations and effectiveness." - Advancement Office

Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year: Erika Henderson

Department: RISE
Job Title: RISE Events Team Student Employee
Major: Sports Medicine
Career Choice: Physical Therapist

"I love the work environment! All of the student employees and supervisors are amazing. My supervisor Jackie has been so fun to work with and I have learned so much about the behind the scenes of events and programming." —Erika Henderson

"Even though Erika was new to the events team this year, she is a leader on the RISE team. Her wisdom is valued by student employees and professional staff alike. The students turn to Erika for event support as she is always willing to lend a helping hand and is a great asset at any event. The professional staff turn to Erika to workshop ideas and solicit her feedback. Erika is the kind of student employee that you can give an assignment to with a brief explanation, and she will not only execute it, but will go above and beyond. The trust we have in her is immeasurable." —RISE

Graduate Student Employee of the Year: Chelsea Ramel

Department: Office of the General Counsel
Job Title: Law Clerk
Major: Juris Doctor
Career Choice: Lawyer

"What I like most about my job is the amazing people I get the pleasure to work alongside - it's been an honor to be a part of such a welcoming and wonderful work team!" —Chelsea Ramel

"Chelsea is always willing to jump in and help when help is needed, always excitedly pursues each project and approaches each with vigor and excitement.  She always does her work with a smile and shows kindness toward everyone with whom she works. Chelsea is very communicative with a stellar attitude to assist in any way. Chelsea is a pleasure to work with. She asks interesting questions and is always engaged in her work. It is clear that she cares about her work and providing the University with the best representation." —Office of the General Counsel

Excellence in Service: Heather Dougan

Department: Student Care Team
Job Title: Graduate Student Assistant for Holistic Care and Well Being
Major: Master of Public Policy with specializations in Dispute Resolution and American Politics and Public Policy
Career Choice: Public Sector Job Promoting Beneficial Community Policy

"One aspect of my job that I truly appreciate is the shared commitment to advancing Pepperdine University's reputation as an exceptional institution through our work with the Waves Food Cabinets to support students who have challenges accessing healthy, fulfilling food. Under Britney Summerville Brannan and the rest of the Student Care Team, students can access the resources they need with dignity and care, which is a crucial element for academic success." —Heather Dougan

"Heather has supported our office in maintaining all 6 Waves Food Cabinet locations, provided support in report writing, and has contributed to the overall well-being of the WFCs.  Because of Heather's work with the Waves Food Cabinets students have access to hundreds of perishable and non-perishable goods each week." —Student Care Team

Excellence in Leadership: Mary Paige Rowsey

Department: Campus Recreation
Job Title: Recreational Sports Student Manager
Major: Film Studies
Career Choice: Film/Sports Production

"I love that I get paid to hangout with Julian and watch sports!" —Mary Paige Rowsey

"As a constant presence at our Intramural events, Mary Paige has consistently and uniquely connected with students and her colleagues in a variety of ways. Through personal and outward-facing promotions of their accomplishments (no matter how seemingly small), our participants feel more valued by her actions. Not only does Mary Paige serve as the Rec Sports student manager, but also as the team lead for our events and marketing teams. Never afraid to step-in and help, but also having the knowledge of when to allow others to take on responsibility, Mary Paige is regularly sought out by team members for guidance and support." —Campus Recreation

Excellence in Belonging: Maddie Beadle

Department: Community Engagement and Service 
Job Title: Student Assistant for Disability Awareness Week
Major: Political Science
Career Choice: Lawyer

"I love the opportunity and encouragement we have to pursue our passions through our work and the community we have built. Community Engagement and Service is a place where we, as students, get real-world experience and cultivate valuable personal and professional skills in a safe environment. My coworkers are amazing and because of the culture among the student staff, I have been able to cultivate meaningful friendships as well." –Maddie Beadle

"Maddie's work leading Disability Awareness Week planning has influenced the campus culture and will continue to impact the university in years to come. By promoting disability pride and centering the voices of members of the disabled community in Disability Awareness Week events, it isn't an afterthought but is in the very essence of all of Maddie's efforts and work." —Community Engagement and Service

Excellence in Technology & Innovation: Olivia Cerbie

Department: Athletic Communications
Job Title: Student Assistant
Major: Sports Administration
Career Choice: Work in Division I College Athletics

"Everything I know about the sport industry has come from my supervisors and the staff in Athletics. The positive environment inspires me to work hard and become the best version of myself. My supervisor, Sarah, has fostered my passion for college athletics, and has become a mentor who invests and believes in me. Working at Pepperdine Athletics has been the best experience of my college career, and I feel so lucky to go to work everyday surrounded by talented people who support and uplift me." —Olivia Cerbie

"Olivia Cerbie has largely stepped up into a leadership role within the department the past two years.  Learning to love the job and what athletic communicators do, she has given herself fully into learning everything she can, she performs any job she is given admirably and without constant oversight, and is a blessing to have around the office and at games.  She is simply impressive, and has taken on a huge load for our staff, helping us to continue to work without a misstep because of her expertise, attitude, and willingness to help. " —Athletic Communications

Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year: Emily Shaw

Department: RISE and Department of Public Safety 
Job Title: RISE Marketing Student Employee and Pepperdine Mobility Driver
Major: Psychology
Career Choice: Clinical Therapist

"I love my supervisors, Stacey Lee and Debra Cowart, and I am so grateful for their mentorship. I also love being able to serve the Pepperdine community through my roles." - Emily Shaw

"I see Emily striving to live out the growth mindset in all she does, not just in her work, but also in her friendships, her relationships, her academics, and her faith - in every area of her life. I hope that I have shared many examples above of the ways she consistently strives to innovate, change, and improve to better serve others, whether that is learning and suggesting a new technology, hosting a never-before-done video series on Instagram, or even volunteering to be one of two student co-hosts for the RISE Summit itself!" - RISE

Graduate Student Employee of the Year: Emily Gerst

Department: Student Activities
Job Title: Fraternity & Sorority Graduate Student Assistant
Major: Dispute Resolution
Career Choice: University Ombudsperson

"I love working as a part of the Student Activities team! My supervisor, Molleigh, is incredibly supportive, she consistently gives me opportunities to use my strengths, pursue my interests, and gain new skills. I enjoy being in a role where I get to work with an amazing team and serve students in tangible ways. My experience in FSL and Student Activities has given me great insight into the world of higher education and helped me develop my post-grad plans." - Emily Gerst

"Emily is extremely dedicated to her professional development through this role. She is in constant communication with our students in a professional manner, she is timely in her approaches to working with students and staff, and constantly strives to improve the fraternity/sorority experience. Emily is also a great asset to other members of Student Activities and Student Affairs and constantly volunteers to assist outside of just the fraternity/sorority space as well. " - Student Activities

Excellence in Service: Stephanie Abad

Department: Jumpstart
Job Title: Jumpstart Intern
Major: Psychology
Career Choice: Clinical Psychologist

"I love seeing the impact that our program has on not only the communities we serve but also the student employees too. Knowing that we are making a difference for kids like I once was is my favorite part of the job!" - Stephanie Abad

"Stephanie has managed to make herself an invaluable member of the Jumpstart team. She has distinguished herself as a leader amongst the other students and student leaders that are a part of Jumpstart. This year Stephanie has managed to create training curriculum for Jumpstart's all day trainings and lead a group of 75+ corps members through the content single-handedly. Stephanie supports a multitude of programmatic efforts. Stephanie consistently supports other leaders who work in the office with their projects like jumpstart materials, data entry  for compliance efforts, corps culture building, and more." - Jumpstart

Excellence in Leadership: Ethan Barragan

Department: RISE
Job Title: RISE Student Lead
Major: Political Science, Minor in Rhetoric and Leadership
Career Choice: Higher Education Staff

"While working at RISE, I have come to enjoy and greatly appreciate the growth opportunities in my role. I'm grateful for having the confidence and support of my supervisors to host various events in line with RISE's six dimensions of resilience. Working with Jackie has been a blessing, and her leadership has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally. I look forward to me and Jackie's one-on-one meetings every Monday afternoon, where we catch up from the weekend and make a plan to get things done during the week. I've had the privilege of working alongside Jackie for about two years at RISE, and we have accomplished many great things together. Thank you for always being in my corner Jackie!" - Ethan Barragan

"When Ethan wants to learn something new or feels that he has an area of growth to build upon, he immediately takes initiative and asks professional staff for opportunities to learn...Ethan did an absolutely fantastic job leading RISE & Thrive. He even had students approaching him after - once again, fostering that community." - RISE

Excellence in Belonging: Jacob Jones

Department: Boys & Girls Club of Malibu Wellness Center
Job Title:  Community Affairs and Outreach Specialist
Major: Business Adminstration
Career Choice: Finance, Commercial Real-Estate

"Everyone at the Boys and Girls club is welcoming and are great examples to the kids and students at the schools around Malibu and LA. Siugen leads by example and has played an important role for the improvement of the community of Malibu." - Jacob Jones

"Jake has supported the Wellness Center by sending communication in Spanish and English to our parents for parent workshops and visiting Malibu Labor Exchange to support with our efforts to outreach these labor workers.  Jake's professionalism with parents, students, staff and clients at the Wellness Center is remarkably special with our minorities population. He makes them feel safe and welcome to come and ask for social and mental health services. Collaboration is always there for Jake. As a non-profit a lot of our events are fundraiser events and Jake is always available to be there supporting directly or indirectly. This year he ran the Malibu Half Marathon. We were one of the beneficiaries and he represented the Boys & Girls Club team on the run and he worked the next day on the event."  - Wellness Center

Excellence in Technology & Innovation: Caroline Sun

Department: Genesis Lab (Pepperdine Library)
Job Title: Genesis Lab Student Assistant
Major: Computer Science
Career Choice: Software Engineer

"What I like most about my job is being able to help students and faculty print the most creative and fun models that could also be useful in their day to day lives." - Caroline Sun

"Caroline is an incredibly hardworking student and integral to the success of the Genesis Lab. She is receptive to instruction, traning, and advice and quickly implements and pivots based on the feedback she receives. She ensures that the 3D print requiests that the Genesis Lab receives are organized and completed efficiently and has  become the resident expert on the Cricut Maker machine, designing her own stickers and guiding other students through their own projects. One of the msot fun projects we've worked on together was the building of a hologram projector which currently lives in the Genesis Lab and frequently elecits "that's so cool!" comments from our visitors" -  Genesis Lab (Pepperdine Library)