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Mount Saint Mary’s University senior Eilah Najera Perez ’26 has been recognized by the National Student Employment Association (NSEA) as a Student Employee of the Year in the Social Impact & Belonging category, a national honor celebrating students who foster inclusive environments and drive meaningful change within their campuses. 

Eilah, a criminology major with a minor in geographic information systems, was selected from a national pool of 240 nominations, including 38 students in her category. The award recognizes student employees who successfully balance academic excellence with impactful work experiences on campus.  

Eilah serves as a Peer Wellness Advocate manager for the ¹ú²ú´«Ã½ Lotus Initiative, one of the peer wellness programs housed within the Sports, Recreation and Wellness department. In this role, she has developed and facilitated educational programs, collaborated with campus partners, and mentored fellow student employees to advance conversations around healthy relationships, consent and violence prevention. All while balancing rigorous academics and multiple leadership commitments. 

Her work is deeply rooted in purpose and lived experience. After encountering the Lotus Initiative early in her time at the Mount, Eilah found a pathway to advocacy that empowered her to transform personal insight into action that supports others.  

“This award is a reminder of why I am here and why I will continue to do what I do,” said Eilah. “My job as a student employee at the Mount is to make uncomfortable conversations feel approachable and to create a safe space where people know they always have resources and people who care about them.” 

Her impact has also been recognized by those who work closely alongside her. “Eilah leads with extraordinary courage, compassion and purpose,” said her supervisor Griselda Marquez, interim associate director of wellness. “She has helped create spaces where students feel safe, supported and empowered. Her leadership has had a profound and lasting impact on our campus community.” 

Her award also reflects the broader role of student employment in shaping student leaders at the Mount. 

“Eilah’s recognition speaks not only to her individual dedication, but also to the power of student employment at the Mount,” said Janet Nava, assistant director of Student Employment and Career Education. “Mount students are empowered to lead with purpose and care deeply for their communities, and Eilah exemplifies that spirit.”