Western Michigan University announced on Apr. 8 that it will celebrate Student Employee Appreciation Week from April 13 to 17, recognizing the contributions of its student workforce and presenting annual awards for outstanding performance.
The event highlights the important role student employees play in supporting university operations while gaining skills valued in today’s job market. Amanda Jeppesen, student employment specialist in Western’s Career and Student Employment Services office, said, “Student employees fill critical roles across Western Michigan University—from managing technical systems and major programs to serving as the front-line face for prospective students and donors.”
During the 2024-25 academic year, more than 2,600 students worked in over 3,700 positions at Western Michigan University (WMU), representing about 16% of the total student population. Jeppesen said these jobs allow students to apply classroom knowledge professionally: “These roles also have a direct impact on the student employees themselves, helping students gain the essential skills and career readiness that employers value in today’s job market.”
Student employees are invited to receive tokens of appreciation at various campus locations throughout the week. The university also announced winners of its annual awards. Mario Antonio Valenzuela was named Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year for his work improving marketing efforts and food partnerships at Bronco Food Pantry. His nominator credited him with establishing new partnerships that secured over 500 pounds of food for students in one semester: “These are now stable, ongoing partnerships that will help us in the future.”
Mason DeRaad received Graduate Student Employee of the Year for his analytical work as a graduate assistant in research reporting. One nominator said DeRaad delivered professional-level work: “While he is a student and a graduate assistant, he has delivered work as if he had worked in our office for years.” Jennifer Townsend was recognized as Supervisor of the Year for her dedication to hiring and mentoring within Lee Honors College; one nominator wrote: “Jennifer is a charismatic, understanding and empathetic supervisor who stands out because of her dedication to her work.”
According to the official website, WMU enrolls more than 17,000 students and supports inclusive excellence across campus life. The university fields sixteen Division I varsity sports as part of its Mid-American Conference membership according to WMU. It promotes sustainability through LEED-certified buildings and award-winning landscaping according to WMU. Several graduate programs have earned top-100 national rankings according to WMU, reflecting an emphasis on learner-focused education that is both research-oriented and globally involved according to WMU.
The recognition events reflect broader efforts by Western Michigan University to support skill development among its diverse student body while advancing institutional goals.
