SPRING 2023 STAFF AWARDS
Every semester the staff award committee, made up of past recipients, reviews the nominations and selects two winners from about 50 staff members that work in the College of Science.
The categories on the nomination form are job performance, successful interaction and/or relationships, college/university-wide service, noteworthy accomplishments that advance the goals of the College of Science, and any additional information that supports the nomination.
The recipients of the Spring 2023 Staff Awards are Becki King from CEMaST and Ian Carlson from the College of Science Advising Center.
IAN CARLSON
Student Success Advisor
Ian Carlson has won the award three times now and in his current nomination there were several students who heartily praised him. Here’s just a couple of student comments:
“He takes the time to get to know each student personally, listening to their concerns and working with them to develop a customized plan for academic success.”
“If there is anyone I can talk to when it comes to needing help with my class schedule, or just my general life at school, it is Mr. Carlson. I have had multiple appointments with Mr. Carlson, and all of them have set me up for great success at Cal Poly Pomona.”
Carlson is being recognized for his support of Math and Statistics majors during advising and orientation sessions and providing expertise within the advising center. Carlson helped during remote instruction by contacting students across majors to explore how we could assist in creating paths for them to continue as students during numerous hardships.
BACKGROUND
Taught 5th grade for three years, then world history and AP U.S. history in high school. Taught English in Korea for three years. He has an M.S. in marriage and family therapy from USC.
WHAT HE DOES
Primarily an advisor to math and computer science students. Helps students with whatever they need to succeed in the program and graduate. Background in teaching and therapy provides skills and experience that helps him support the whole person.
BEST PART OF THE JOB
“The best part of the job is getting to know students. Each one has a story that is unique and we get to know each other during the four to five years they are here.”
INTERESTING FACTS
Carlson likes to travel and prefers vacations that are not typical. Some of the places he’s traveled to include Cambodia, Portugal, Hungary, and Colombia.
Carlson is also an accomplished drummer and has been playing in bands for years. He’s performed in punk bands and is currently part of a jazz band.
BECKI KING
Administrative Support Coordinator II
Becki King works in CEMaST which is the Center for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching. She likes being able to help students who are preparing to become teachers. This is King’s second Staff Award.
King is being recognized for her support of CEMaST, numerous student fellows, and local teachers enrolled in K-12 certificate programs focused on Computer Science. She was also extremely helpful to the other departments during high volume times over the past few semesters.
In her nomination she’s described as someone who is an inspiring, motivated, enthusiastic, warm, engaging, and highly professional colleague who goes above and beyond.
BACKGROUND
Taught kindergarten and 4th grade.
WHAT SHE DOES
King works with students who want to be math & science teachers and assists them with scholarships. She recruits students for programs the Center offers and organizes workshops.
She provides operational office support that includes tracking the hours of Prete Fellows, biology learning assistants, and handling travel reimbursements. King also pays the tuition of MSTI Scholars and local teachers who are pursuing supplemental credentials in computer science.
BEST PART OF THE JOB
“Helping students with money and supporting their professional development as teachers is the best part of the job for me. I also like hearing their stories when they come back to talk to other students about their experience as teachers.” She also likes the variety of responsibilities.
INTERESTING FACTS
Becki is an avid off-roader who loves the outdoors and enjoys gardening, camping and hiking.