Staff Award Winners

Administrative Coordinator, Center for International Affairs and World Cultures

Diana’s exceptional contributions to the Center for International Affairs and World Cultures, the college’s Marketing and Communications group, and several college organizations, including managing events, promoting student fellowships, and supporting scholars, have significantly enriched CSSH’s mission of fostering empathy and global understanding. Her resilience, dedication, and ability to seamlessly fill in for various departments during staff vacancies affirm her worthiness for the annual Outstanding Staff Award.

Senior Human Resources Associate, Dean’s Office

Brandy’s positive attitude, willingness to help others, and commitment to quality make her an invaluable asset to the CSSH staff. Her creative, quick judgment in meeting staff needs and ensuring equitable treatment, along with her hard work and dedication, make her a worthy recipient of the Outstanding Staff Award.

Program Coordinator, International Affairs

Julie has demonstrated excellence and innovation by supporting multiple units over the last year when short-staffed, showcasing her dedication to the college community. Her hard work and commitment to maintaining a positive and enriching student experience justify her receiving the annual Outstanding Staff Award.

Lead Staff Interpreter, American Sign Language & Interpreting Education Program

Cayle has been an invaluable support and resource to all American Sign Language and Interpreter Education program faculty and students, fostering an exceptional sense of belonging and inclusivity. Her calm demeanor, problem-solving skills, and dedication to her role make her an outstanding colleague and deserving of the annual Outstanding Staff Award.

Operations and Program Manager, Ethics Institute

Keanna Smigliani has been an outstanding staff member of the Ethics Institute and a wonderful colleague, always ensuring those around her are supported despite her heavy workload. Her dedication to the Ethics Institute, especially when she was the sole central staff member, and her unwavering support for other staff members and colleagues deserve recognition as an Outstanding Staff member.

Associate Professor and Director of Latinx, Latin American and Caribbean Studies

Dr. Martinez has been very successful in her first two years, significantly increasing minor and course enrollments in the Latinx, Latin American and Caribbean Studies program through effective events and student outreach. She has expertly balanced improving her new program while ensuring her staff and students are not overwhelmed, demonstrating exemplary leadership and dedication to fostering a sense of belonging.

College Events Manager, Dean’s Office

Danita has significantly enhanced CSSH’s organizational culture, engagement, and sense of belonging through her exceptional skills, dedication, and creativity in planning and executing events since joining in December 2023. Her calm demeanor, innovative ideas, ability to handle challenges effectively, and contributions to inclusion and belonging make her an exemplary leader deserving of the Belonging Leadership Award.

HR Business Partner, Northeastern University Human Resources

Meghan has been an invaluable partner, providing expert guidance, thoughtful insights, and unwavering support across all aspects of HR and employee relations, significantly improving the work environment for CSSH’s staff. Her facilitation of professional development opportunities, coordination of social activities like the campus Kickball Tournament and community walks, and leadership of the CSSH Staff Advisory Council inspired the college to create the College Partner Award and name her the first honoree.

Teaching Professor, World Languages and Cultures Department

Gina has been the driving force behind the CSSH Sustainability Committee since its establishment in March 2024, developing detailed recommendations and recruiting Sustainability Champions to implement sustainable practices throughout CSSH. Her leadership and dedication have significantly advanced the college’s commitment to sustainability, making her the obvious choice to receive the first annual Sustainability Award.

Administrative Assistant, CSSH Undergraduate Advising

Hannah has made a significant impact on the CSSH Undergraduate Academic Advising, Coop, and Graduate Programs Office since joining in May 2024, quickly becoming an integral part of the team and enhancing office culture with her professionalism and dedication. Her exceptional performance while managing student inquiries, supporting staff, and supervising work-study students makes her deserving of the college’s first, First-Year Impact Award.

Project Coordinator, Sociology and Anthropology

Administrative Assistant & Staff Interpreter, American Sign Language & Interpreting Education Program

Director of Belonging Initiatives

Louis Green’s goal is to drive meaningful and sustainable progress in CSSH within the role of Director of Belonging Initiatives. He has acquired 15 years of experience in program creation, project management, and training and development with Cornell…

Human Resources Business Partner, NU-Human Resources

Director of Marketing and Communications

Michael Farah, Director of Marketing and Communications, leads all marketing and communications functions and projects for CSSH. He joined the college from Academic Approach, a Chicago-based test readiness company, and previously managed marketing ca…

Associate Director of Student Experience (School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs) and Graduate Co-op Success (CSSH); part-time lecturer

Michele Rosenthal serves as the Associate Director of Student Experience (School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs) and Graduate Co-op Success (CSSH). In this role, Michele will provide leadership and coordination of student services and academic su…

Learning & Employee Engagement Associate, NU-Human Resources

Academic Advisor for Criminology & Criminal Justice (Last Names A – H, & R), English (Last Names H – M), International Affairs (Last Names O – Z), Sociology & Anthropology (Last Names A – D)

Academic Administrator (Political Science)

Shannon is the primary contact for Political Science graduate and PhD programs, including the Resilience Studies program. Additionally, she supports the Applied Quantitative Methods and Social Analysis (AQMS) MS program as well. She works closely wit…

Associate Director of College Research Administration, Research Administration & Development

With over a decade of experience in grant management, Helen Chong’s dedication, availability, and expertise has played a role in the continued growth in external research funding for CSSH faculty, fostering interdisciplinary opportunities for students. Beyond her professional achievements, Helen’s warmth and approachability create a supportive environment where colleagues and students thrive. Known for her dedication and mentorship, she also invests personal time to guide junior faculty and graduate students through grant proposals. Helen’s unique blend of wit, pragmatism, and authenticity, combined with her commitment to excellence and genuine care for others, make her an invaluable asset to the community in CSSH.

Administrative Officer, Department of Philosophy & Religion

Nancy Hutchins is the embodiment of dedication, helpfulness, and warmth. Beyond her adept creation of standard operating procedures and meticulous coordination of interdisciplinary searches, Nancy’s humor and genuine care resonate deeply. Her thoughtful gestures, like crafting promotion materials for faculty with bound copies and a personal touch, reflect her unwavering commitment to faculty support and above-and-beyond work. Nancy’s exceptional blend of efficiency, kindness, organization, and camaraderie enriches the Department of Philosophy and Religion and CSSH community alike, making her a beloved cornerstone deserving of this esteemed recognition.

Associate Director of Undergraduate Academic Advising, Office of Student Academic Affairs

Jason Riccio is celebrated for his remarkable contributions to student success, consistently enhancing the advising experience at CSSH. Jason’s work ethic is unmatched – if Jason does not know how to do something exceptionally, he figures out how he can bring it to that level, and then delivers every single time. Moreover, Jason’s leadership fosters a collaborative and supportive environment among his team, promoting growth and inclusivity. Beyond professional achievements, his warmth and approachability cultivate a sense of belonging within CSSH. As a leader, Jason prioritizes relationships and fosters a growth mindset among staff. He goes above and beyond in his role, ensuring both students and colleagues thrive under his guidance.

Assistant Director of Academic Advising & Support, Office of Student Academic Affairs

Heather Stellberger’s time at Northeastern University exemplifies her commitment student success. Heather’s deep knowledge of CSSH and Northeastern, coupled with her exceptional leadership skills, has left an indelible mark on the advising team. Described by a student as “the cheerleader that keeps you going through your hardest seasons,” Heather is recognized for her tireless efforts in developing resources, facilitating trainings, and providing unparalleled support to students, staff, and faculty. Following her recent promotion to Assistant Director, Heather continues to lead with excellence, driving innovation and advocating for the CSSH community.

Director of College Research Administration Office of the Dean

Jennifer Akula is pivotal in advancing faculty research and sustaining graduate education through funding and grants. She is known for being a reliable source of information and going above and beyond for CSSH faculty and researchers. With a noteworthy commitment to smooth and successful grant management, Jennifer has proven herself to be an important and supportive member of the Dean’s Office. She is well-regarded by colleagues as “efficient, energetic, and knowledgeable.”

Associate Director NULab for Texts, Maps, and Networks, Women Writers Project

Sarah Connell is a key member of Northeastern’s digital humanities and computational social science community, described by her colleagues as a “true leader, wonderful collaborator, strong mentor, and difference-maker.” Her work at NULab epitomizes organization, commitment, and knowledge of university systems and shines a light on her dedication to the institution. With the Women Writers Project, Sarah exerts ingenuity and special care in ensuring that students feel supported and have maximum learning opportunities. She is a “go-to” collaborator who has enriched her academic community.

Administrative Officer, Political Science

Janet-Louise Joseph has enriched the lives of the faculty, staff, and students of the Political Science department for 25 years with her professionalism, collegiality, and commitment to the university. She has made exceptional contributions to the department in her time as administrative officer and displayed a profound effectiveness in her response to challenges that the department has faced over recent years. Janet-Louise’s role in supervising administrative staff has been notable, and her assistance and advice to everyone in the Political Science community is well appreciated.

Administrative Specialist, English

Jennifer Lobisser is adored and respected by colleagues for her support, professional expertise, and problem-solving skills. She excels in her many tasks for the English department, from running course registration to managing the department’s budget to onboarding new faculty members. Jennifer’s leadership allowed the English department to function smoothly during the pandemic and through to the present day; she takes any challenges in stride and finds solutions with a strong, yet calm presence.

Senior Coordinator of Student Support, Office of Student Academic Affairs

Sally Solomon has been a valuable member of the Northeastern community for 35 years and has helped countless students during her time with CSSH. She works to guide students to needed academic, medical, mental health, and spiritual resources and ensures that they feel supported. Sally helps students navigate the various rules and standards in an often complex environment. She is the prototype for persistence advising at Northeastern, having created the network that brings staff together to discuss issues that students find important, such as financial aid and mental health. She works with students during their most vulnerable moments to ensure that they can succeed.

Administrative Officer, Department of Cultures, Societies and Global Studies

Colleagues commend Mika for her keen attention to detail in coordinating her department’s many events, as well as her outstanding collaborative efforts throughout the college. Mika is lauded for her support and mentorship of students and her deep commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Operations and Data Manager, Office of Student Academic Affairs

Nominators describe Justin as the “glue” of Academic Advising and Cooperative Education with an outstanding ability to support faculty, staff, and students alike. Justin is praised by colleagues as patient, understanding, and an exceptional problem-solver.

Program Coordinator, International Affairs Program

Colleagues commend Julie for her unparalleled support for students and faculty, as well as her warmth, enthusiasm, and positivity. A skilled problem solver, Julie is an outstanding asset not only to the International Affairs Program but also to the College.

Events and Administrative Operations Manager, Humanities Center and CSSH Office of the Dean

Both faculty and staff colleagues laud Gaby’s professionalism and leadership in her work for the Humanities Center and College. Over the last year, and with seeming ease, Gaby has done outstanding ambassadorial service to the university community in helping colleagues quickly transition events to virtual format.

Administrative Assistant – Department of History

Both faculty and staff colleagues described Kirsten as a tireless advocate and mentor for students, and a critical ambassador who supports and welcomes new administrative staff.

Administrative Coordinator – Department of Political Science, Lazer Lab

Described as “indispensable,” nominators recognized Janette for her leadership across a diverse slate of duties and her willingness to step up when new initiatives and challenges arise.

Graduate Administration Coordinator – Department of Economics

Praised for her commitment to supporting the department’s many graduate students with warmth and enthusiasm, nominators also recognized Jacquaetta’s ability to excel in the complicated technical components of her role.