Congratulations to Patrick Khan, MS, and Valeria Rizo 鈥10, recipient of the 2020-2021 faculty and staff of the year awards, respectively, from this year鈥檚 student body. The announcement was made during the recent Athenian Awards celebration, and showcases the dedication and commitment of the faculty and staff at Mount Saint Mary鈥檚 University.
Khan, who teaches geospatial criminology, was recognized for his caring, positive and welcoming attitude to all students. The student comments from their nominations indicate that he goes above and beyond in helping each student achieve her greatest potential while ensuring that everyone feels confident in their work. Several students indicated that they credit him for their becoming GIS (geographic information systems) minors.
Rizo is the assistant director of ISAE (Institute for Student Academic Enrichment), a program that she herself was a graduate of as a Mount student. ISAE is part of the federal TRIO Student Support Services program operated under Title IV of the US Department of Education that first generation, income qualifying and/or disabled students are eligible to apply for. The student nominations indicate that Rizo is viewed as a role model and mentor who makes the transition to college easier for ISAE participants through academic advisement and being an overall resource for them during their time as undergraduates.
Find out which students received recognition at the Athenians Awards ceremony in this article.