At College Possible Omaha’s end-of-year celebration last month, one individual truly distinguished herself among our dedicated AmeriCorps service members. Katie, a campus-based college success coach, was honored as the AmeriCorps Service Member of the Year. This accolade is presented to the coach who exemplifies College Possible’s core values and serves as an exemplary AmeriCorps service member, as voted by her peers.
Katie has consistently shown an exceptional commitment to going above and beyond in her role. Her solution-oriented approach, leadership skills, and her role as an elected representative for the college success team highlight her dedication. She advocates fiercely for students and empowers them to advocate for themselves. Katie embodies the essence of what a leader should be.
Testimonials from College Possible students
Throughout the past academic year, countless students have expressed their deep appreciation for Katie and the support she has provided during their educational journeys. Mark and Kennedy, both students in Katie’s cohort at the University of Nebraska Omaha, have shared their heartfelt gratitude for her contributions to their success.
“I appreciate you reaching out and asking if we need help and connecting with people who can help us out. Your actions haven’t gone unnoticed,” says Mark.
“Katie, your hard work this year has truly made an impact on me and so many other students. Thank you so much for your dedication and continuous effort. Please continue being the amazing coach that you are. You truly do make a difference in the lives of students,” shares Kennedy.
Katie’s own experience as a College Possible student played a pivotal role in her decision to become an AmeriCorps coach and support other College Possible students. Katie also came to College Possible with previous teaching experience, which has been an invaluable asset to her role as a coach.
Fellow AmeriCorps members praise Katie for outstanding service
Omaha AmeriCorps coaches were asked to nominate a fellow coach and provide a brief statement on why that coach should be awarded, ‘AmeriCorps Service Member of the Year.’
“Katie sets a high standard for what it means to serve with College Possible. From being a former student in the organization to bringing teaching experience to her role, I am unsurprised to see her excel in her position. She is wonderful in conversation, knows how to build bridges between people, and boosts morale both in-person and across social media. I think she embodies what it means to serve with College Possible and is a deserving candidate for AmeriCorps Service Member of the Year.”
“I’ve seen Katie do a lot of great things in her time of service this year. She always has a solution to a problem and is constantly finding new things to aid in serving college students at UNO and elsewhere. She has juggled many things for both UNO and College Possible and has more than excelled in it all.”
“Katie is an outstanding member of the College Possible success team. She goes above and beyond for students, advocating for them and showing them how to advocate for themselves. She is a pro at finding new and niche resources and opportunities at UNO and beyond. Katie is quick to share all her findings with the team, improving the work of all those around her. She is the tide that raises all ships. Thanks Katie!”
“She is consistently present, communicative, and overall, on top of tasks. She demonstrates her passion for the role and goes above and beyond.”
“Katie is a committed leader who goes above and beyond in service. She’s always willing to help others. Everything she’s involved in exemplifies her intention to positively impact people and organizations.”
“Katie has made such a huge impact at UNO through her service and displays leadership and kindness in everything she does. She has always been so friendly, and I have thoroughly enjoyed our interactions this year. She displays a great sense of care, selflessness, impact, joy, and teamwork. I always enjoy hearing about her successes at UNO and I know she will do great things in the future.”
“Katie is a powerhouse and if the glowing reviews from students have not said enough, I will be the next person to tell you how amazing she has been as a coach, as a representative, and as someone who has often acted as a bridge between the access and success teams. From the beginning of the school year, Katie has established herself as a leader to her peers. Katie is constantly informing coaches of pressing matters and UNO insider information. She is an invaluable member of AmeriCorps and College Possible Omaha.”
“Katie has been so dedicated to this year of service and the students she serves. She has taken every opportunity to support students and further her education and career. She truly appears to be enjoying this position and it shows in the progress that students have made while under her guidance.”
“Katie is devoted to supporting students and does all she can to help them, including my sister. She always has ideas on how to better support students and her enthusiasm for coaching has an impact on everyone around her. She is clearly a leader and role model at College Possible.”
“I nominate Katie for AmeriCorps Service Member of the Year due to her outstanding commitment and dedication as a coach and team member. She has been the voice not only for students, but also for other coaches. Her contributions to supporting students and seeking the best resources for students by attending sessions at UNO have been beneficial for the whole team.”
“Katie has shown tremendous growth in her first year of service. She displays great leadership skills in all team meetings, success coach meetings, and on the UNO campus. Katie has never shied away from helping a coach or student. She goes above and beyond for the students she serves at UNO by attending campus events and meetings to best serve students and help her fellow coaches. She is passionate about guiding students to success on their path to graduation. Katie is very involved with College Possible. She tackles her coach duties with a smile on her face. Overall, Katie is super friendly and optimistic. She never fails to put a smile on my face.”
“Katie has exhibited true leadership in her time at College Possible and UNO. She profoundly cares for students and is always working to best support students and show her support in their highs and lows. Her personality is amazing and exudes positivity.”
Katie’s impact with College Possible continues as she returns to serve as a transition coach this summer and resumes her role as a success coach in the fall. Her dedication and hard work are deeply valued by College Possible Omaha and are crucial in advancing our mission.
