The University of Toledo

November Student Centeredness Award Winners

Darlene Stevens

Dr. Morris Jenkins

Dr. Morris Jenkins, assistant professor of criminal justice, was in the middle of a constitutional law lecture last week when a group of people unexpectedly walked in bringing things to a halt.

Darlene Stevens, an enrollment management specialist in the College of Business, was working in her office the next day when the same group interrupted her.

What did Jenkins and Stevens do to deserve such treatment?

They put students first on a daily basis and were named November's student-centered employees of the month.

Eric Lambert, professor and chair of criminal justice, nominated Jenkins writing that he often meets students outside of normally scheduled office hours, frequently oversees independent study projects and involves undergraduate students in research projects.

Lambert added "He (Jenkins) volunteers to teach lower level courses so he can help students learn, succeed and graduate. He holds students to high standards and constantly helps them to meet these standards."

Terribeth Gordon-Moore, assistant dean in the College of Business, nominated Stevens writing "She is willing to meet with prospective and current students in the day, evening or weekend to meet the student's schedule. She will advise the students and act as a mentor and a confidant. Darlene always puts the students' needs first."

Stevens also organizes student appreciation days and started an annual student picnic that has become a huge success.