Seven officers of administration were named OA Stars this year for their commitment and contributions to the university and UO community. The honorees were recognized at the OA Council’s spring open meeting in May.
Nominations were received from across campus and highlighted the personal impacts and contributions OAs have made to the campus community. This year’s stars were chosen from a pool of nearly 130 nominations. This was nearly three times the usual number of nominations, reflecting the many contributions OAs have been making as the university responds to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The seven honorees received a certificate and a seat in the presidential suite at a home football game. Below are the OA Stars, along with statements from the nomination entry.
Stella-Marie Akindayomi, multicultural counselor and Black/African American student retention specialist, Center for Multicultural Academic Excellence: Nominated for drive and desire to build community on campus and for her leadership of Super Soul Tuesdays in collaboration with the Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center.
Jessica Brown, operations manager and executive assistant, Lundquist College of Business: Took initiative to make technology more user-friendly for her peers and took on more jobs than required when the team was understaffed during the pandemic.
Krista Dillon, director of operations, Safety and Risk Services: Planned and implemented COVID-19 vaccine clinics and wildfire response efforts, in addition to day-to-day incident management operations for the pandemic response.
Marie Greig, business manager, Department of Theatre Arts: Made people feel welcomed and appreciated within the department, handled personnel issues with discretion and care, and fostered a spirit of participation through community service projects and holiday celebrations.
Sarah Kutten, director of student services, UO Portland: Created and facilitated large-scale community events, such as UO Portland Cultural Night and Flock to the Block party, and transformed UO Portland community for students and staff through ProDucktive conversations.
Nancy Nieraeth, director of talent acquisition, Human Resources: Successfully navigated the hiring freeze and HR initiatives during the pandemic and is committed to fostering community through diversity initiatives and day-to-day work.
Brady Rowe, assistant director of residence life for occupancy and systems, University Housing: Supported new and prospective residents with online housing processes and adapted to fast-changing policies that occurred due to COVID-19.
—By Anna Nguyen, University Communications