During their two-day meeting in Fairbanks earlier this month, regents honored Wayne “Woody” Woodgate of UAA’s Prince William Sound College,�Ginny Redmond, director of UAF’s Student Support Services, Auguste “Augie” Stiehr of UAS’ Learning Center and Josh Watts of UA’s Office of Information Technology.

The Staff Make Students Count awards are presented annually to staff across the UA system who go above and beyond daily to serve students.

The 2017 award recipients exemplify the myriad ways staff provide outstanding service to students. Whether through direct contact in a math tutoring program, an adult learning program, a TRiO program for underserved students, or via student club activities—these staff members have gone above and beyond in order to create lasting, positive experiences for our students.�

UAF – Virginia “Ginny” Redmond

Ginny is the director of Student Support Services at UAF. Previously a coordinator for TRiO programs, Ginny has advocated for low income, first generation, and disabled students for many years. She is known for her unequivocal support of and investment in each student she encounters, and her colleagues have also noted she is always willing to volunteer personal time to lead cultural events/community service opportunities. She ensures a welcoming and effective environment by making sure the best possible resources are available to students in her program. Ginny also challenges other administrators to not let bureaucracy interfere with serving students well.

UAS – Auguste “Augie” Stiehr

Auguste is a math specialist for the Learning Center at UAS. Known as a patient and amicable tutor, Auguste works well with students and easily establishes a report with them. He creates a positive learning environment for students, making math more accessible, helping them overcome their fear and anxiety surrounding math. He is a cheerleader who never gives up on his students. Over the years, he has also worked frequently with students with disabilities and understands the obstacles many students face just in asking for help. Several co-workers also noted Auguste is a role model for other tutors and helps create a student-first work environment.

SW – Josh Watts

Josh is a lead for OIT’s Customer Support Services and supervises a number of student employees, helping them figure out how to balance their class and work schedules. However, Josh is being recognized today for volunteer work done after hours. Josh serves as a staff adviser for the UAF Brazilian Jujitsu Club and the UAF Gaming Society. With both, he has given freely of his own time and energy to help mentor students and provide a safe and inclusive environment to explore martial arts and live action role playing. Over the years, he worked with ASUAF to secure funding and with UA Risk Services to work through red (safety) tape to get the jujitsu club approved. Several students noted Josh’s support and involvement in the student clubs was instrumental in helping them survive the cold, dark Interior winters.

UAA – Wayne “Woody” Woodgate

Woody is a former teacher who recently took over as coordinator for the Adult Basic Education program at Prince William Sound College and revitalized it with his passion for helping others. Under his guidance, the ABE program has increased student contacts and helped encourage students to declare majors and commit to their education. Woody is known among his colleagues for his dedication to student success, his incredible work ethic, and his boundless positive energy. Woody was presented with his award at the May 10 Prince William Sound College commencement ceremony.