CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Dr. Stephon Fuqua, Illinois' Associate Athletic Director of Academic Services, received the Chancellor's Staff Excellence Award during an on-campus ceremony on April 17. The accolade honors outstanding University of Illinois staff members who perform important work across campus.
"It was an incredible honor to receive the Chancellor's Staff Excellence Award, and I'm truly grateful to those who nominated me," Fuqua said. "It is a privilege to work alongside such supportive colleagues."
Nominated by his peers, Fuqua is actively involved in Student Success @ Illinois, serving on three different SSI committees. Fuqua and his colleagues often share their highly successful Student Assessment Evaluation, which has helped form the Early Screening and Support Project pilot program and the Illinois Scholars Program in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost. Supportive in developing these efforts, Fuqua knows that "the success of any of our students contributes to the success of all our students."
One of 16 winners from a pool of 100 nominees for awards in eight different areas, Fuqua was a recipient within the Student Services category. He serves on the board of the National Association of Athletic Academic Advisors and on a departmental committee that drives diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives. Leading a team of counselors and learning specialists who execute a comprehensive academic support program of the highest quality, Fuqua demonstrates a commitment to raising the profile of the University of Illinois, and he does so with tremendous poise and integrity.
Nominees and award recipients like Fuqua must meet four criteria in order to be considered and recognized with the campuswide awards:
- Demonstrate excellence in overall work performance.
- Put forth an effort to improve self as well as develop and recognize others.
- Exhibit initiative and creativity resulting in improved operating efficiency of the department and/or University.
- Enhance the reputation of the department and/or University.
Fuqua's involvement with multiple committees showcases his commitment to student success and his kind-hearted character. By improving the academic performance of student-athletes and maintaining high graduation and career placement rates, Fuqua ensures that we continue to attract the most talented student-athletes and support them so that they continue to succeed academically and athletically.
