Congratulations to the recipients of the annual Distinguished Performance Awards, which were selected from among nominations of the university’s non-faculty personnel. The awards were presented during a campus ceremony May 12.  Below are highlights about this year’s honorees, and the news release is online.

Rasheda Hamilton is coordinator in Transition Studies. She goes above and beyond to provide academic, social and emotional support to ensure a smooth transition for our student population from high school to A-State. Noting that the student experience encompasses all aspects of a student’s college journey, not just academics, her nominator said Hamilton goes out of her way to enhance that journey, a quality to which students who benefit will attest.

Kyle Walker, director of Learning Support Services, consistently exceeds expectations, providing exceptional support and leadership. The Learning Support Center achieved the highest certification training it has ever had, showcasing his commitment to elevating the standards of service and support. His vision and collaboration in the FYE Academic Expo resulted in the highest participation to date, demonstrating his ability to lead impactful initiatives.

Phareta Calkin, institutional printer in Printing Services, simply makes things happen, meeting each customer’s needs and deadlines, usually without saying a word. Her nominator noted her ability to complete her projects, usually in a more rapid timeframe than was believed to be possible. While we might tend to think our own projects are the most important, she has a talent for never making us feel any different. She’s a huge asset to A-State, and has been for the better part of a half-century.

The individuals from these two departments can be called the Turn Over Crew (TOC). The TOC works collaboratively to make sure student housing is in the best condition possible. The busiest time of year for these individuals is between semesters, when they must get current students out of housing and prepare for new students to arrive. This is quite a task considering the number of students in housing and the amount of cleaning, maintenance and other work that goes into getting the rooms ready.

J. Jagriti has already helped to improve the Graduate School’s curriculum review process. She has helped to improve her unit’s administrative capabilities, and she has proven herself invaluable as a collaborator on campus-wide initiatives, such as the Catalyst event. Jagriti’s nominator said she is an amazing ambassador for A-State, speaking positively about our programs at every event that she attends. She also is a tremendous role model for the growing body of international graduate students.

Prathima Pattada received the STAR (service, teamwork, attitude and reliability) Award based on her abilities as a trusted leader for Arkansas Biosciences Institute. In 2024, Pattada took on new responsibilities including planning the 20th anniversary celebration for ABI and handling proposal development with faculty members. She works effectively with all ABI faculty and staff in support of the ABI’s research mission. Her nominator noted her numerous responsibilities and her reliable performance of duties.

Jacob Short, a trainer and fitness instructor for the Red Wolves Wellness program, goes above and beyond in providing excellent care for all clients. He is attentive and kind in giving correction, and he is always looking for ways to better each class and personalize workouts for each individual in a group workout class. He remembers clients’ skill sets and can challenge each person, using his talent for building relationships.