March 2022 CEHS Distinction Award Recipients

On March 2, 2022, the College of Education and Human Services college meeting began with the announcement of our Distinction Award Recipients! Our community is dedicated to creating a healthier, better educated, just society and we are grateful to work with so many exceptional employees.

The following words from the award recipients’ nominees speak volumes about their dedication to work.

Evelyn De Jesus-Quiles, the Executive Assistant to the Dean, was recognized for her helpfulness. “Evelyn is the epitome of selflessness. She goes above and beyond to ensure CEHS operations are running smoothly. Most importantly, I think she enacts equity and justice in every aspect of how she works, what she works on, and the ways in which she pays attention to respecting everyone’s voice.”

Linda Salazar, the Program Associate in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, is “often the first person prospective students or parents encounter whether it be in person or through telephone or email. She graciously welcomes all who come to the office searching for information about our programs.”

Kaitlin Mulcahy, Director of the Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health, “is moving the proverbial needle of the field of Infant Mental Health to a future, when children’s wellness will not be a privilege for a few, but a reality for all children. Her name will be known for generations as one who works hard to advance this field; her vision, helping MSU continue to grow as a Research University, a pioneer in the country in creating equity, social justice, and new and proven interventions to help families reach their potential.”

Kurt Conklin, Public Health Instructional Specialist, “keeps us intellectually limber while building community and social support. Especially during the pandemic, this has been an invaluable contribution to morale.”