Lakeland employees honored at year-end celebration
Lakeland University recently celebrated its employees with a luncheon to recognize service anniversaries and winners of various awards.
Kerry Hamm, assistant professor of nursing, director of nursing and chair of the School of Education, Nursing and Continuing Studies, and Joe Beniger, director of facilities, were named winners of the 2025-26 Big Fish Award.
This award annually recognizes outstanding contributions by an employee who demonstrates extra efforts that have a positive effect on fellow employees and students, and on the mission and values of Lakeland.
Hamm was recognized for the outstanding service she provides to students, along with her work on creating the partnership with Moraine Park Technical College that created Lakeland’s bachelor of science in nursing degree.
Beniger was recognized for the largely behind-the-scenes work he does in ensuring that the campus’ facilities and infrastructure is continually functioning as needed.
Other nominees for the Big Fish award included: Mekenzy Hoisington, Amanda Hruska, CJ Johnson, SueAnn Kohlmann, Joey Lehto, Karin Miofsky, Sydney Pingitore, Derek VandenPlas, Phil Welsh.
Lakeland also presented two new awards – the Finovation Award and the Deepwater Under Pressure Award.
Bursar Sam Jessup received the Finovation Award, which celebrates innovative, mission-driven initiatives that provide solutions to unique problems and highlight forward-thinking leadership and dedication to Lakeland University.
Jessup researched and proposed the Reel Success: Muskie Comeback Program, a mission-driven initiative that re-engages former students to boost enrollment, improve degree completion, strengthen alumni engagement and generate positive net revenue while advancing access and student success.
The program creates opportunities to add various proactive touchpoints as LU students navigate their financial plans, rather than intervening only after a problem exists and collections are contacted.
Human Resources Coordinator Michaela Heling received the Deepwater Under Pressure Award, which celebrates an individual who steps up during times of unexpected challenges with resilience, adaptability and unwavering commitment to the university. This person maintains excellence "under pressure" and goes above and beyond to support Lakeland University in moments that matter most.
Heling, a recent Lakeland graduate in a new full-time role, suddenly found herself as a human resources department of one person for 12 weeks due to a departure and a maternity leave. She answered the challenge with grace and determination and did an excellent job of embracing the challenge of keeping things moving forward.
Two employees were recognized as they retired from Lakeland:
Numerous current employees were recognized for their years of service at Lakeland:
5 Years:
10 Years:
15 Years:
20 Years:
25 Years:
