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CPASS staff member earns distinction for commitment to service

In recognition of his advising service to students, Greg Goodwin has received the 2015 Nicholas Evans Professional Staff Advising Excellence Award from West Virginia University. Goodwin serves as the student services specialist in the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences where he oversees student recruitment.

The award is given to two staff members who spend at least 50 percent of their time advising undergraduates in their academic endeavors. It honors those advising personnel who best emulate the character of Nicholas Evans, who is described as a “lifelong proponent and exemplar of student advising.” Along with the award comes $1,250 for travel and other professional development expenditures.

“I was very happy, but also surprised. When I received the notice that I had won the award, it was a fantastic feeling. I knew Dr. Nick Evans and had the pleasure of working with him,” said Goodwin, who has been with CPASS since October 2013.

To be eligible for the award, a professional staff adviser must be nominated and receive recommendations from a student and two colleagues. Goodwin works with a team of advisers in the college who make sure the students are on track for academic success.

“We in CPASS have known of Greg’s commitment to students since he came here, but it is a testament to him that his efforts are being recognized by the university,” said James Hannon, CPASS assistant dean. “Our advisers are a key component to the success our students reach both academically at WVU and professionally after graduation. Greg is a dedicated staff member and our students have benefited greatly from his advising acumen.”

The award is named after Nick Evans, former director of Undergraduate Student Services and former associate dean of Undergraduate Education in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. Evans served WVU for 40 years before retiring in 2007. The award was created to honor Evans in 2009, shortly after his death, as a living tribute of his work at WVU.

“I think what gave me the most satisfaction is knowing that I was awarded something that bears his name. He was a great man and I am proud to have this honor. I hope I can help continue his legacy of helping students,” said Goodwin.

Recipients of the award are chosen based on their desire to serve WVU students and advancing the advising profession.

“It gives me great fulfillment to share in students’ accomplishments and to help to motivate them to do their best. I just enjoy being a part of their WVU experience and making a difference in their lives,” said Goodwin. “I want to be that person at WVU whom they feel comfortable coming to regardless of the situation. Every student at WVU should have someone that they can count on to help them and I hope I am that person for CPASS students.

Goodwin and the other designees will receive the awards at a dinner on Thursday, April 9 at the Blaney House, home of WVU’s president, E. Gordon Gee.

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