Texas A&M University was built upon a tradition of leadership and fellowship, and Dr. John J. Koldus III exemplified these qualities during his tenure at the university. To honor him, the John J. Koldus III Faculty and Staff Achievement Award was created to recognize outstanding service. Shayla Rivera was a recent recipient of this prestigious honor.
The award was created by the Division of Student Affairs and is given to an outstanding faculty or staff member who exhibits a strong interest in student growth, education and unity. The recipient, through guidance, leadership and personal interest, has gone beyond occupational requirements to enhance students' experiences at Texas A&M and, subsequently, the rest of their lives.
Rivera, director of ENGR[x] and professor of practice in the Texas A&M College of Engineering, was nominated for her numerous accomplishments and impact on students at Texas A&M.
“She has an energy that moves mountains. Every time I watch her speak, I just know I'm in the presence of extraordinary,” said Ritika Bhattacharjee, an undergraduate student in the Department of Chemical Engineering. “I've worked with her to create three projects/programs from scratch, brainstorming and then executing them with her. I'm only a sophomore here, which shows the tremendous speed at which she works and the amazing amount of trust she has in her students. Very simply, I think meeting Professor Rivera was one of the best things that happened to my academic career, and it accelerated my personal growth immensely. She is a living inspiration.”
Rivera said she was honored by the award. “Texas A&M has always been in the business, not only of providing a solid education, but of helping our students discover the exceptional nature they already possess and I love being part of that process,” said Rivera.
Rivera and other recipients were recognized for their accomplishments by the Division of Student Affairs at a ceremony in May.