Two students and a Fort Hays State University staff member were selected to receive regional awards from the National Association of Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. The honors included a Support Staff Recognition Award and two Rising Star Awards.
Chris Gist, administrative assistant to the vice president for student affairs, will receive the Support Staff Recognition Award. The award recognizes that she has “contributed significantly to higher education and student affairs professionals.”
Gist has devoted her time to the university community in many ways, including helping with living and learning communities, contributing to a statewide Peer Mentor Institute, coordinating details of the Division of Student Affairs Kick-Off, supporting the AmeriCorps Serve to Succeed program. According to the FHSU website, Gist also works as a primary contact person for the treasurers of Circle K International and Omicron Delta Kappa.
“Gist has tireless dedication and a lot of heart,” said Dr. Tisa Mason, vice president for student affairs. “Gist is the glue that holds together the administrative components of the Fort Hays State chapter of Circle K,” said Brett Bruner director of persistence and retention.
Josh Doak, Rush, Colo. senior, was selected as the Kansas undergraduate student to receive a Rising Star Award for Achievement, Involvement and Potential in our emerging and future Student Affairs Professionals. He plans to pursue a career in student affairs. Doak serves as the president of the Interfraternity Council, and as a VIP Student Ambassador for FHSU. In addition, Doak works in the Admissions Office, the Center for Student Involvement, and the Student Recreation Center, according to the FHSU press release.
“Josh Doak is determined to make a difference in our profession and our world,” said Vince Bowhay assistant director of the Memorial Union.
Darryl Glenn, St. Louis, Mo graduate student, will receive the Kansas Rising Star Award for Graduate Students. Glenn plans a career in student affairs. He is very active in UAB, Encore Series, After Dark, and other FHSU student and leadership activities.
“Glenn seeks out opportunities to collaborate with other departments and to learn from professionals across the division on a regular basis,” said Edie McCracken, director of the Memorial Union.
The honorees will receive their awards at the NASPA Regional Conference from Nov. 5 to Nov. 7, in Hot Springs, Ark.