Staff Awards for Outstanding Achievements

Dedicated, hard-working, creative, commitment, loyalty. These are all characteristics attributed in multiple nominations to this year’s Outstanding Service Award for Staff recipient. As one of her nominators wrote, “She goes above and beyond to ensure all tasks are executed promptly and thoroughly and is meticulous in her attention to detail. Her thoughtfulness shines through in her interactions with colleagues and participants alike, always taking the time to understand their needs and seek answers and support in whatever way possible.” Another nominator spoke about her willingness to help others outside of her department, volunteering to step in and assist when needed. Additionally, this colleague wrote, “Overall, her work ethic and various skills make a difference in the GSOE and aligns with the mission of the University.” We agree, and we are pleased to name Michele Schuerger as this year’s honoree for the Outstanding Service Award for GSOE staff. 

Known as a consummate professional, this year’s outstanding staff service award winner has provided outstanding ongoing service to GSOE staff, faculty, and students throughout the past academic year. Her knowledge of university systems at large is exhaustive. She responds and communicates with others with urgency and great care. Colleagues have commented in their nomination letters about her efficiency and friendly nature and her initiative. Even during some of the most challenging times of her life, she has always tried to assist others as much as she can. It is for these reasons and more that it is such as a pleasure to recognize Leisa Contreras with the Outstanding Staff Service Award.

Mason Randall contributes substantially in several ways and the following examples demonstrate a brief list of his service to the University. He is service-oriented as a volunteer at several graduations, generously offers tech tips, and troubleshoots problems for students, faculty and staff. For students, he provides helpful instructions and a ready willingness to explain anything that is asked, including reaching out to appropriate Cal Lutheran personnel for assistance. He has demonstrated adaptability, flexibility and versatility as a Graduate Assistant, while completing the MPPA program. 

Additionally, Mason has worked full time and part time in the PASC, Ed.D. and School Counseling programs, as well as the Human Resources Department. 
As a team player during the pandemic, he supported the GSOE department by coming into the office on a weekly basis. This helped us keep the overall operations running smoothly and assured that checks were routed and processed, and that office business was attended to in a timely manner. He also provided coverage while others were unavailable. Furthermore, he is collaborative when working on dissertation payments to faculty, adjuncts and outside committee members. 

Therefore, his dedication to service and professional acumen benefits students, faculty and staff. By these actions, he personifies the mission of the GSOE and University. 

Leisa is a mission driven professional and seeks to support everyone she comes in contact with. Faculty and staff benefit from her many acts of kindness and support and dedication to solving problems and making a positive difference! She does everything she can to help faculty and staff get support with student workers and make positive connections throughout Cal Lutheran. Leisa encourages faculty and staff with various projects throughout Cal Lutheran. Her willingness to support, listen and reach out to find answers, solutions, and create new partnerships is well known at Cal Lutheran and the Graduate School of Education. Leisa has a unique combination of kindness, collaboration and the ability to get tasks done!  Her years of service at Cal Lutheran has strengthen the entire department. She truly is a servant leader who has made many contributions over her years of service. 

Christina Soria was the recipient of the GSOE Staff Service Award.  Christina's wisdom and expertise are recognized and appreciated as she guides students through the credentialing process.  Her knowledge and insights around credentialing and her ongoing caseload in processing paperwork and credential forms are critical to our students' professional experience.   Christina has been instrumental in the success of thousands of students in the GSOE.  She is deeply appreciated by the Cal Lutheran GSOE for her consistent help, engagement and involvement from recruitment to placement.