Nominations continue to roll in for Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Roadrunner Shoutout of the Week awards, highlighting the excellent and important work happening at all levels of the University. This week, we celebrate three members of our University community who inspire students and their colleagues.
“Working alongside talented and forward-thinking individuals like this week’s winners is truly motivating,” said Athletics Director Todd Thurman. “They are proof that there is unlimited potential when Roadrunners band together to uphold our community’s CADRE values.”
Faculty winner
Richard Mac Namee, director of the Cybersecurity Center
Nominated by Megan Conklin, executive director of Corporate and Foundation Relations, who wrote:
“Richard has the rare ability to be both a visionary and capable of effectively executing on that vision, as evidenced by the existence of MSU Denver’s Cybersecurity Center. What started out as a general idea Richard has built in specific and real terms with an unwavering eye on preparing students appropriately to be ready on Day One of their cybersecurity careers. From designing and implementing the Cyber Center’s physical location – all while working remotely during Covid! – to spearheading IDIQ contracting and NSA certification. Richard has especially shined in creating positive and proactive industry partnerships, and it’s exciting to think he’s only scratched the surface of what’s possible with the Cybersecurity Center.”
Richard, thank you for your unrelenting dedication to enhancing the Roadrunner journey for students and for lifting up co-workers along the way.
Staff winners
Elaine Becks, assistant director for Business Operations, Athletics
Nominated by Thurman, who wrote:
“Elaine keeps everybody in our department on track. We all consider her our office mom. Elaine is also in charge of our student-athlete Diversity, Equity and Inclusion group and has done amazing things. She is our business manager and my executive assistant, which is a full-time job on its own.”
Elaine, it isn’t easy wearing multiple hats, but you wear them well. Thank you for not only being an exceptional employee but for the care and compassion you bring to the Roadrunner community.
John Kietzman, Ed.D., associate director of Marketing and Operations, Athletics
Nominated by Thurman, who wrote:
“John is the hardest-working person that I know. He juggles so many things at one time and accomplishes them all with great results. I lean on John the most due to his vast institutional knowledge and his ability to problem-solve. We work very closely together, and he is very deserving of this Shoutout.”
John, thank you for being a stronghold for your co-workers as we work together to help students achieve excellence. Your leadership and camaraderie are deeply appreciated.
Seeking student-employee nominations
The Roadrunner Shoutout of the Week series is especially in need of student-employee nominations. Do you know a student-employee who is going above and beyond to uphold MSU Denver’s CADRE values and provide outstanding service to the Roadrunner community? Take a moment to share your gratitude and shine a spotlight on exemplary employees by completing the nomination form on the Roadrunner Shoutout of the Week webpage. Tell us how your nominee is making an impact through great teaching, service to students or innovation. Winners will be selected each week and profiled in the Early Bird on Thursdays. Winners will also get a shoutout on social media.