NSU celebrates staff excellence with 2026 STAR awards

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) has announced the recipients of the 2026 STAR and Rising STAR awards, recognizing employees for their outstanding dedication and service to the university. Sydney Smith and Karrine Ortiz were selected for their commitment and contributions to the NSU campus community.

Jessica Lear, coordinator of student transition and lead organizer for the NSU Staff Council selection committee, shared her perspective on the recipients.

“Sydney and Karrine stood out for the outstanding support they provide in their roles,” Lear said. “They lead with integrity, kindness and a positive attitude, consistently putting others first and embodying NSU’s mission of Our People. Our Place. Our Purpose.”

Smith was named the 2026 STAR award recipient. The award recognizes employees who have served NSU for three or more years and demonstrate exceptional teamwork, a positive attitude, outstanding service and consistent reliability.

Smith has been with NSU for nearly five years and has served as assistant director of NSU’s Conferences and Events. She is a model employee known for her exceptional customer service, meticulous organization, honesty, compassion and team-first mentality. Her dedication to creating positive experiences for clients embodies the true spirit of this award.

Ortiz was named the 2026 Rising STAR recipient. This award honors employees who have worked at NSU for six months to two years and demonstrate strong service, teamwork, dedication and dependability.

Ortiz has been with NSU for nearly two years and serves as academic process coordinator for Academic Affairs. Prior to joining the university, her family had already established a longstanding connection to NSU as both graduates and employees. She is known for her collaborative spirit, problem-solving skills, engagement in university governance and commitment to expanding student learning opportunities.

NSU President Rodney Hanley congratulated this year’s STAR recipients and recognized their contributions to the university.

“We are proud to recognize these two recipients for their outstanding service and commitment,” Hanley said. “Their daily efforts to serving others creates a lasting impact on those around them and inspires a culture of excellence across our campus.”

Both recipients were recognized during the Employee Recognition and Awards Ceremony in April. They each received a gift card to Barnes & Noble, a year-long parking permit, a cash award and a crystal STAR trophy. Smith and Ortiz will also be featured in a display at the Tahlequah Administration Building.

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