Nominate a student-facing colleague for the Sandra K. Monroe Excellence in Student Services Award by Feb. 27
Nominations are open for the Sandra K. Monroe Excellence in Student Services Award, honoring a student-facing professional who carries on Monroe’s legacy of exceptional service and student advocacy. Nominations must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 24.

Sandy Monroe and Kaletra Dispennett. (Photo provided by the Office of the Provost)
Nominations are now open for the Sandra K. Monroe Excellence in Student Services Award, recognizing a student-facing professional who demonstrates exceptional service and student advocacy. Nominations are due by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 24.
Established to honor the lasting contributions of Sandy Monroe, whose career at Purdue University spanned nearly 45 years and profoundly impacted student experience, the annual award celebrates individuals who exhibit exceptional service to students and commitment to student success.
Before retiring from Purdue, Monroe served as a counselor, associate dean of students, assistant vice president for student affairs and executive director of University Undergraduate Academic Advising, among others. She was instrumental in coordinating advising practices, advocating for student success and supporting students in crisis.
Her leadership left a lasting impact on Purdue’s student services, and the award honors those who emulate her commitment to improving student experience. The recipient will receive $1,000 and be recognized for their contributions to Purdue students.
Eligibility:
Employed as a student-facing staff member at Purdue West Lafayette, Indianapolis, or statewide.
Award Criteria:
- Exemplary service to Purdue students
- Contribution to the student experience through direct service and student-centered policy advocacy
- Evidence of annual magnitude, depth, and breadth of impact
- Nature/quality of contribution (i.e., college/university scope, level of impact)
- Number of students served
- Years of service
Nomination Process:
Each submission for the Sandra K. Monroe Excellence in Student Services Award must include the following:
- Nomination cover letter addressing alignment between the nominee’s accomplishments and the criteria noted above. Nominations can be submitted by colleagues or supervisors of the nominee.
- Nominee’s CV
- A minimum of two letters of support that address the award criteria.
- One letter from a campus colleague (must be separate from the nominator, e.g., advisor, student life professional, faculty member, administrator)
- One letter from a student (clearly marked as such)
Celebrate the extraordinary efforts of Purdue staff and help continue the legacy of Monroe’s impactful work. Nominations and submission materials must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 24. All materials can be sent to Kelly Lough.
Visit Monroe’s biography to learn more about her lasting impact at Purdue.
