April 20, 2016
Putting students first: Faculty, staff recognized for service and commitment to students
Two Kansas State University employees have earned a Putting Students First Award for outstanding work with students.
The award recognizes faculty and staff, particularly in the Division of Student Life, who go the extra mile in advising, teaching and service to students. Recipients are nominated by peers, supervisors and students.
This year's winners are Robert Pettay, instructor of kinesiology in the College of Human Ecology, faculty award; and Jason Brungardt, assistant director of facilities operations, Recreational Services, staff award.
"This award is an excellent way to say thank you to our most dedicated faculty and staff members," said Pat Bosco, vice president for student life and dean of students. "I can think of no better way to say thank you on behalf of our students."
Carla Jones, assistant vice president and senior associate dean of student life, leads the Student Life Staff Development Committee, which chooses the recipients of the award.
"I am grateful to these recipients for their work with students. I am proud of the work they do," Jones said.
The recipients also receive recognition from the K-State Parents and Family Association as well as recognition at the All-University Awards program.
Pettay has served as instructor, advising coordinator and undergraduate coordinator in the kinesiology department since 1998. He is responsible for six to nine hours of courses each semester and teaches for the K-State First program. As the advising coordinator, Pettay works with approximately 600–700 undergraduate kinesiology majors and minors in both an advising and administration role.
Brungardt has served as assistant director of Facilities/Aquatics since 2011. His duties include hiring, training, scheduling, supervising and evaluating 135 student staff. Brungardt also teaches American Red Cross courses, assists with the planning, preparation and evaluation of recreation complex expansion projects, develops and supervises a student marketing internship program and advises the Rec Ambassadors.