Duffy to Co-Lead Spirit of Emerson Awards Program

Interim Dean of Students Sharon Duffy has been named co-facilitator of the Spirit of Emerson initiative, an annual awards program that recognizes students, faculty, staff, or organizations who represent and reflect the College’s essence.

Duffy takes over as co-facilitator from Andy Tiedemann, vice president for communications and marketing, who is stepping down effective September 1 after serving in the role for three years. Duffy will work alongside Tom Cooper, professor of Visual and Media Arts and the founder of the award.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to help advance the Spirit of Emerson!” Duffy said in a statement. “I am excited to learn more about the outstanding and impactful work being done on campus, and to help develop ways and opportunities to recognize the efforts and accomplishments of our very special community!”

The awards are given annually to groups or individuals who embody the “Spirit of Emerson,” defined as “that which increases the radiance, reputation, pro-social organizations, and/or creative, positive expression of Emerson College.” Candidates are nominated by members of the Emerson community and are selected by a committee of faculty, staff, and students.

Gabriela Kula ’17, a Journalism major, will become the new student assistant to the Spirit of Emerson Awards Committee, chaired by Associate Professor Eiki Satake. Kula previously served on the committee as undergraduate liaison.

“I am so happy to be involved again because Spirit of Emerson truly does showcase the best of the best here at Emerson,” Kula said in a statement. “SOE helps show us role models within our community who we can all strive to be more like.”

Spirit of Emerson Award winners for 2016 were Jaqi Holland, MA ’04, assistant director of academic support at the Lacerte Family Writing and Academic Resource Center, and Jade Zaroff ’17, creator and producer of the annual Emerson Green Gala. Holland and Zaroff were presented with their awards at the final faculty meeting of the 2015–2016 academic year.