Centennial Student Union Blog
Crystal Watts has the BEST Board distinction of being both a graduate student and an interim Student Activities assistant director of the Community Engagement Office. Her active involvement in CEO has advanced new and existing projects for students’ community service.
Being a leader sometimes means making tough decision. The best leaders make those decisions and maintain the respect of others without asking for it. Morgan Rusler’s nominator saw that in her and thought it deserving of BEST Board recognition. “She has not sought out recognition for her accomplishments and contributions, and this honor would be very befitting of her during her last semester at MSU. Morgan has been an exemplary student leader, and there aren’t many I would consider as deserving of this honor as she is.”
In the BEST Board nomination of Masaki Hara, he was recognized for his assistance to incoming international students, particularly from Japan. His trustworthiness helps him gain the confidence to lead others. “Masaki has been a leader with Bridges International for the past 2 academic years. He helps organize community building events and is always a welcoming face to new international students joining Bridges events. If he says he’ll do it, he will,”
BEST Board honoree, Ryan Leistikow, found a path to his career in Recreation and Parks Leadership through his involvement with the Student Events Team. That passion for keeping others engaged grew during the pandemic when, as President of the Student Events Team, he lead planning and coordination of virtual events. For Ryan, that involvement was an extension of his Maverick Pride.
On Jonah Maurer’s application for the lead role among Maverick Bullpen student staff, he was asked what he would do to ensure a high standard for customer experience. “The one thing I would do to ensure a high standard of satisfaction at the Bullpen is being consistent.” That consistency has led other Bullpen staff to state “they are the new Jonah” in recognition of the high standard he set.