Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Roadrunner Shoutout series in fall transitioned to a monthly format, continuing to highlight the excellent and important work happening at all levels of the University. Nominations are accepted and encouraged.   

This month, the series celebrates three inspirational members of the University community who were honored in person at the latest President’s Cabinet meeting.

Staff winner 

Kristen Wall Cordova, senior total-rewards analyst, Office of Human Resources 

Nominated by Elise Rarang, office manager of Student Affairs, who said: 

“Thank you for being the HR professional that you are! Not only do you juggle timesheets for everyone at this University, but we have seen you roll your sleeves up to assist other functions within HR to ensure that work continues to progress forward. We in Student Affairs specifically appreciate the numerous changes you were able to accommodate given our personnel changes, from vacancies to interim roles. We cannot imagine how many timesheets you’ve changed from one supervisor to the other. You also went above and beyond and provided us service and support with salary recommendations and compensation. There was a slight delay with these, however you came in and sped things up. I guess we can say you’re truly a fast Roadrunner. We want to let you know that your work behind the scenes does not go unnoticed, and you truly are a foundational asset to the core of our operations.” 

Faculty winner 

Mallory Brunel, MSN, R.N., associate professor of Nursing 

Nominated by Kylie Miller, assistant director of Marketing and Event Production, Office of University Events, who said: 

“Mallory has gone above and beyond for Commencement for years and deserves to be recognized for her exceptional work within our committee but also with the Nursing Department students. Mallory is always the first to volunteer her time. Meanwhile, she works tirelessly to manage a challenging division of coursework for the Nursing Department. Mallory is dedicated to the mission of MSU Denver, and her passion for students radiates through everything she does. She is always willing to help. She offers unique ideas and perspectives, but most important, she always advocates for what is best for our students. We are so thankful for everything Mallory does for our team, the University and our community. Thank you, Mallory!” 

Also nominated by Cora Potter, associate director, Office of University Events, who wrote:

“Not only is Mallory an amazing faculty member at MSU Denver, she’s an amazing human being. She’s the first person in the room to greet you with a big smile, the first person to ask you if you need help with a project and the first person to dedicate her own time to volunteering. I’ve known Mallory for many years on the Commencement Committee, and she is a huge asset to our team and University. When her students see her, they light up. She’s passionate, caring and dedicated to student success. Thank you for all that you do, Mallory!”

Student employee winner  

Ryan Guyton, software specialist, Information Technology Services 

Nominated by Gabriel Grinsteiner, coordinator for Advising Technology and Support, Advising Systems who said: 

“Ryan’s passion for helping students is apparent in all his interactions, and his professionalism is always indelible. Ryan came to MSU Denver to pursue Computer Science after completing a degree in Psychology and master-level coursework in Neuroscience. He’s excellent at using this wide range of skills to complete projects and think outside the box when solving problems nobody else could tackle. He takes the time to research solutions and present them in meaningful, accessible ways. We love chatting with him and can always trust that everything will be taken care of with a positive attitude and refreshing curiosity.” 

Thank you to this month’s winners for all they do at MSU Denver. To nominate a faculty member, staff member or student employee for the Roadrunner Shoutout Award, please complete the form. Tell us how your nominee is making an impact through great teaching, service to students or innovation. Winners will be selected each month and presented with their award at the monthly President’s Cabinet meeting.