THIBODAUX – The Nicholls State University Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services honored outstanding faculty service to students with the annual Apple Awards program at Faculty Institute, conducted Tuesday, Aug. 12.
The awards recognize the role of Nicholls faculty members with students outside the classroom in areas such as recruiting and mentoring, advising student organizations, supporting student activities and helping to shape the careers of students.
Kellie Graffagnino, assistant professor of nursing, was named Outstanding Faculty Adviser of a Student Organization. The award recognizes an adviser who has given the most effective guidance to an organization. Graffagnino is active in the Nicholls Association of Student Nursing.
Dr. Ramaraj Boopathy, distinguished service professor of biological sciences, received the Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award. The award is given to the faculty member who has contributed most to the development of students, encouraged students to pursue education in the face of hardship and gone out of his or her way to help students.
Brian Ellender, instructor of English, was awarded the Outstanding Faculty Support for Student Activities Award. The award is given to a faculty member who regularly attends student-sponsored activities and has shown visible support for students in a variety of ways.
An Outstanding Faculty Merit Award was presented to Dr. John Doucet, associate professor of biological sciences and director of the University Honors Program. The award recognizes support of students, student activities and the mission and goals of the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services.
An award is also given each year to the faculty member who was most often cited by graduates for playing an important role in shaping and nurturing their careers. Dr. Patricia Gabilondo, associate professor of English, coordinator of general education assessment and department head of general studies, received the award this year for contributing to the academic success of graduates.
Recipients of the annual Apple Awards are nominated by students, faculty and staff and determined by a selection committee of student affairs staff, two students and an academic dean. The award for contributing to the success of graduates is determined by surveys sent to all graduating seniors.
