group of students stand with their awards

Highlighting Exceptional Employee Achievement

Student Employee Awards

The Student Union is proud to recognize employees whose work exemplifies excellence and commitment.

Student Staff Nominated Awards

Union Spirit Award

Awarded to a student employee who embodies the values of the Student Union of empathy, curiosity, and the Volunteer Spirit. This recipient exemplifies the role of the Student Union in building community on campus.

Community Builder Award

This award recipient is committed to creating a positive and unified environment within the student employment program.

Staff Nominated Awards

Unsung Hero Award

Awarded to a student employee who goes above and beyond in their work to create a positive customer service experience, exemplifies leadership qualities, and meets the needs of the UT community often while working behind the scenes.

Kristen Elizabeth Fisher Outstanding Student Employee Award

Presented to the Student Employee for Outstanding Customer Service, Leadership and Dedication in serving the needs of Students, Faculty, and Staff of the University of Tennessee and the Knoxville Community. Kristen was an inspiration to every person she touched, whether it was a smile, conversation, or a simple: “May I help you?” Even while fighting an ongoing battle with cystic fibrosis, she continued to attend class, served in several student organizations, and worked as a student employee at the University Center. Kristen never complained or requested special treatment due to her condition and served as a role model for others. Students, faculty and staff members who had the opportunity to work with Kristen in the University Center will always remember a brave young woman who put life into perspective: “Live life for today and live it to the fullest.”

Customer Service Award

Awarded to a student employee with exceptional customer service qualities, treating customers with dignity and respect, as well as providing them with accurate information in a timely manner.

Rising Star Award

This award recognizes a with 1 year or less of experience working in the Student Union who has shown exceptional growth in the program, distinguishing this individual as a rising star.

ILead Scholarship

The selected student is given the opportunity to attend the ACUI’s premier student program, focused on leadership and community development through a living-learning experience. 

a group of six students standing in front of a wall posing for a photo

NASPA Recognition

The Student Union’s Student Employment program was recognized by the 2025 NASPA Excellence Awards for the program’s contribution to students’ development and success. Receiving a Silver Excellence Award in the Fraternity and Sorority Life, Leadership, Student Activities, Student Union, and related categories, the program creates meaningful work experiences for student employees, helping them to grow professionally.