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On April 9, 2025, President Hendrix presented the Staff Awards to the winners.

The Above and Beyond Award goes to a staff member who has often exceeded standard expectations to assist people and accomplish goals.  By being positive and productive, the employee helps to make ���ϳԹ���a great place to work.   The winner of the 2025 Above and Beyond Award is Emmy Wilson.

As the Student Employment Coordinator, Emmy’s contributions extend far beyond what her title suggests.  With nearly 20 years of service, Emmy has become an integral part of Shepherd, consistently going above and beyond the expectations of her role.  Over the years, she has taken on numerous responsibilities including filling in at the front desk, assisting with financial aid counseling, and packaging awards, among other things, all while managing the day-to-day demands of her core duties.  Her commitment to ensuring that tasks are completed and students are supported is unparalleled.  Emmy has been a consistent source of stability in a time of staffing shortages, for the smooth operations of the Financial Aid Office.  The person that nominated Emmy said, “She is the epitome of someone who goes above and beyond, and truly deserves recognition for her incredible work ethic, service, and dedication.”

The Excellent Service to Students Award distinguishes a staff member who has been especially supportive of ���ϳԹ���students.  They have shown that they value students by enthusiastically and capably serving them.  The 2025 Excellent Service to Students Award was presented to Juneau Daggs.

Juneau is a Student Success Coach in the Student Affairs Division and the person that nominated him said, “Juneau isn’t just a staff member – he is a lifeline to so many students.”  He creates a safe and supportive environment in a way that feels effortless, but anyone who has been on the receiving end of his kindness knows that it comes from a deep and genuine place.  Juneau notices when students are struggling, and meets them with warmth, understanding, and the belief that they matter.  During the fall semester, one of the students that Juneau supported unexpectedly passed away.  It was a very difficult time for Juneau, fellow students and the entire ���ϳԹ���community.  Juneau continued to provide steadfast support and care to students who were impacted by this heartbreaking event.  There are a lot of incredible staff members on this campus, but there is only one Juneau.  His kindness, unwavering support, and his ability to change lives make him more than deserving of this award.

The Making a Difference Award is given to a staff member who has demonstrated a commitment to the importance and value of every student and every employee.  They are a change agent working to improve the well-being of the ���ϳԹ���University community.  The winner of the 2025 Making a Difference Award is Anthony Stoika.

Anthony received a record 26 separate nominations for the Making a Difference Award from students, faculty and staff.  As an Administrative Assistant for the School of Music, Anthony is involved in many aspects of the department to ensure things run smoothly.  He has demonstrated the highest levels of professionalism and dedication to those he serves.  Anthony is the glue that holds every aspect of the School of Music operations together as he is the one making concert programs, coordinating faculty contracts, scheduling rooms and facility usage, handling budgets,  hiring musicians for performances, keeping track of all student concert proposals and jury grades, just to name a few.  He generously offers assistance to anyone, is a listening ear when needed, and is a natural born problem solver who handles any issue with patience and grace.  His dedication and the positive impact he has made on everyone around him makes him deserving of this award.

The Ram Spirit Award is for a staff member who exemplifies long-term, passionate dedication to ���ϳԹ���University, and who has been a University employee for at least five years.  The 2025 Ram Spirit Award was presented to Marci Magaha.

Have you ever spotted a spirited Ram cruising around campus in a Gator, sporting a bandana, and spreading ���ϳԹ���cheer? If not, allow me to introduce you to Marci Magaha.  Marci has been a valued member of the ���ϳԹ���community for six years, working in the Facilities Management department on the grounds crew.  In her role, she works tirelessly day after day, ensuring Shepherd’s campus shines brightly and is always in top shape for our students, staff, and visitors.  Her co-workers describe Marci as endearing and upbeat, always putting others first.  They admire her strong work ethic, positive attitude and her determination to get the job done.  Marci embodies optimism and brings positive energy to all those around her.  Marci proudly wears her blue and gold because, to her, being a Ram means being diligent, helpful, and passionate about Shepherd. Any day spent interacting with Marci is a good day, and ���ϳԹ���is incredibly fortunate to have someone with her exceptional Ram Spirit.

for more photos from the 2025 Staff Recognition Luncheon