Gilbert Named VSU Student Employee of the Year

VALDOSTA - Barron “Neil” Gilbert of Outdoor Programs was chosen as Valdosta State University’s 2009 Student Employee of the Year.

The 20-year-old junior serves as the climbing wall supervisor and facilitator at the Student Recreation Center on Sustella Avenue. Gilbert was a campus recreation employee for the two years prior to taking his supervisory role during Spring 2008. He is responsible for supervising the climbing wall and other facilitators, teaching classes, improving related programs, responding to emergency situations, scheduling and more.

“(Gilbert) has shown excellent organizational skills, initiative and overall excitement for his job that sets him apart from other workers,” Martin said in the nomination letter. “His quality of work has been more than I ever could have asked for.”

While working hard in his position, the speech communications major has maintained a 3.6 GPA and stayed true to his 4-year track. During his off-hours, Gilbert enjoys rock climbing, snow boarding, hiking and other outdoor activities.

The VSU Student Employee of the Semester was also nominated for the Southern Association of Student Employment Administrators regional competition, results for which will be announced in mid-April.

Runners-up include Adam Gordon in Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice, Charles “Chuck” Kluball with the Student Success Center, Jenna Mulvey in the dean’s office for the College of Arts and Sciences, and Miguel Pena Caste Blanca in Information Technology/Distance Learning.

Gilbert and all runners-up will be honored at a luncheon on April 15, as part of National Student Employment Week.