Student Affairs announces 2024-25 employee awards
On May 15, 2025 employees from across Student Affairs gathered in the Great Hall at Memorial Union to celebrate their colleagues and campus partners during the annual Student Affairs Awards Ceremony and summer celebration.
During opening remarks, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Lori Reesor reflected on the past year and how, even in the midst of challenge, Student Affairs professionals go out of their way to acknowledge each other’s efforts and take the time to say, “I see you. I appreciate you.” Reesor continued on about how that kind of recognition strengthens our community in powerful, lasting ways.
“As we end this academic year with all of its own challenges, I encourage you to carry this spirit forward. Keep holding the door open—for students, for your colleagues, for the next great idea.” Reesor continued, ” Know that each interaction matters. Each word of encouragement holds promise… even if you don’t have all the answers or know what tomorrow might bring. You are the heart of this institution, and I am deeply grateful for the passion, care, and excellence you bring to your work every single day.”
An event highlight was when Dr. Lori Berquam came back to campus to present the Committment to the Wisconsin Experience Award, named in her honor, for her work in leading the development and promotion the Wisconsin Experience. Berquam spent a total of 25 years in student life and residence life at UW–Madison, and most recently served as vice provost for student life and dean of students before leaving campus in 2019.
A committee with representatives from across Student Affairs selected recipients from peer nominations based on established criteria for each of the following awards:
As part of former Dean of Students Lori Berquam’s legacy, this award recognizes champions who have used their work at UW–Madison to have a positive and significant impact within student communities. The Wisconsin Experience is characterized by close integration of in- and out-of-class experiences; by active, creative, and entrepreneurial engagement in real-world problems; and by offering students leadership in their learning.
Wei-Chiao Hsu, University Health Services
Hsu’s nomination said: “From launching UHS’s first Mandarin-speaking support group to collaborating on panels about student resilience, Dr. Hsu uses her expertise to create meaningful and lasting change. Her ability to bridge communities through public service and partnerships embodies the Wisconsin Experience and makes her a model leader for positive transformation.”
This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated leadership and courage while initiating, creating, and supporting a more inclusive learning and work environment. Efforts may include advocacy, lived experience, and role modeling for students and staff, whether within or beyond the scope of one’s current position and responsibilities. Award recipients have a clear record of fostering an open, positive, and inclusive campus community and demonstrate a sense of commitment, spirit, and integrity to diversity and inclusion both professionally and personally.
Nicole Bresnick, McBurney Disability Resource Center
Bresnick’s nomination said: “Nic has gone well beyond the scope of her position to create a supportive climate and practices within the McBurney Center and beyond. She has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering an inclusive environment that has had a lasting positive impact on our office.”
The final award recognized an entity (or two) whose collaboration with Student Affairs had positively impacted campus life.
David Brinkmeier, Business Services
Brinkmeier’s nomination said: “Dave is a tireless seeker of better value for the campus. His ethics are impeccable, and student interest was always foremost on his mind. He ensured vendors were treated fairly and evaluated regularly. He is an unsung hero and will be missed.”
Ruben Mota, Office of Compliance
Ruben’s nomination said: “Ruben’s commitment to inclusivity has profoundly impacted our office and the broader community of Registered Student Organizations. He consistently goes above and beyond in supporting our team. His contributions exemplify the qualities of a true partner with Student Affairs.”
- Outstanding New Professional
- Commitment to the Wisconsin Experience
- Leadership in Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice Efforts
- Student Affairs Partner
Outstanding New Professional
This award recognizes a Student Affairs member who has made outstanding contributions during the early years of one’s career. These activities must show innovation, reflect foresight, and display promise that the individual has the unique quality to positively impact the student experience.
Mao Thao, Office for Student Organizations, Leadership & Involvement (SOLI)
Thao’s nomination said: “Mao goes out of her way to support others. She is always the first to volunteer, and her infectious, positive attitude brightens the team. Her genuine care is reflected in her efforts to get to know every SOLI student staff member. Her ability to connect with others and foster a supportive environment is truly remarkable.”
Commitment to the Wisconsin Experience
As part of former Dean of Students Lori Berquam’s legacy, this award recognizes champions who have used their work at UW–Madison to have a positive and significant impact within student communities. The Wisconsin Experience is characterized by close integration of in- and out-of-class experiences; by active, creative, and entrepreneurial engagement in real-world problems; and by offering students leadership in their learning.
Wei-Chiao Hsu, University Health Services
Hsu’s nomination said: “From launching UHS’s first Mandarin-speaking support group to collaborating on panels about student resilience, Dr. Hsu uses her expertise to create meaningful and lasting change. Her ability to bridge communities through public service and partnerships embodies the Wisconsin Experience and makes her a model leader for positive transformation.”
Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion
This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated leadership and courage while initiating, creating, and supporting a more inclusive learning and work environment. Efforts may include advocacy, lived experience, and role modeling for students and staff, whether within or beyond the scope of one’s current position and responsibilities. Award recipients have a clear record of fostering an open, positive, and inclusive campus community and demonstrate a sense of commitment, spirit, and integrity to diversity and inclusion both professionally and personally.
Nicole Bresnick, McBurney Disability Resource Center
Bresnick’s nomination said: “Nic has gone well beyond the scope of her position to create a supportive climate and practices within the McBurney Center and beyond. She has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering an inclusive environment that has had a lasting positive impact on our office.”
Student Affairs Partner
The final award recognized an entity (or two) whose collaboration with Student Affairs had positively impacted campus life.
David Brinkmeier, Business Services
Brinkmeier’s nomination said: “Dave is a tireless seeker of better value for the campus. His ethics are impeccable, and student interest was always foremost on his mind. He ensured vendors were treated fairly and evaluated regularly. He is an unsung hero and will be missed.”
Ruben Mota, Office of Compliance
Ruben’s nomination said: “Ruben’s commitment to inclusivity has profoundly impacted our office and the broader community of Registered Student Organizations. He consistently goes above and beyond in supporting our team. His contributions exemplify the qualities of a true partner with Student Affairs.”