Congrats to our September “G” Thanks! Winner Jay Rojas!

Posted on Wednesday, October 13th, 2021

Written by Jennifer Demeis

Congrats to our September “G” Thanks! Winner Jay Rojas!

Ashley Street wrote in her Kudoboard nomination:

“I would like to nominate Jay Rojas from Student Experience. I started my role in Student Experience right before O-Week and Jay designed and managed my transition. He went above and beyond his normal workload to set me up for success in my role. Thanks Jay!”

When learning he was the winner, Jay said:

I’m thankful and appreciative for the nomination and recognition. As my role model, Miss Frizzle, once said, “Take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!” These past few months was just that, but despite the challenges past and present, we’re surrounded by amazing people that keeps U of G a learner-centred university. 

I’m so thankful to be part of such an amazing Gryphon family and Guelph community - that through collaboration and hard work, we’re able to continue to provide caring, engaging, and dynamic student experiences.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank all the staff, students, and faculty who have contributed to my own success in my role – I wouldn’t be where I am today, or be the professional that I am today, without the love, patience, and kindness you’ve all provided me – Thank you!”

A virtual celebration was held for Jay and several of his colleagues joined to show their support and appreciation.

Shannon Thibodeau, Manager, Student Engagement and Leadership said, “Jay loves being a gryphon and we all love that Jay is a gryphon! It’s his enthusiasm, he takes a team-based approach to helping students and colleagues be successful. That's where the magic happens. Jay is super organized with transitions, he designed a plan for Ashley that took into consideration the chaos. Jay is always being such a good gryphon and member of the team. He really makes it seem like he’s getting as much out of it as he offers, which makes it easy to ask him for help.”

Kathryn Hofer, Director of Student Experience commented, “If we had published this gathering, there would be a 100+ people here to show their support and appreciation! I know a long-term goal of Jay’s is to be VP of Student Affairs and one day he will be there, and everyone is 100% behind himand looking forward to seeing that.”

Kristina Eisenbach mentioned, “Ashley’s transition was one of several recently. Jay took on several roles and on-boarded multiple people and shuffled duties, instructed people, and got it all done. I don’t know where he finds the energy and we all appreciate him very much. He is patient and open to answering questions, provides an extra hand, and insight.”

Jenny Daines said, “Jay helped not only with Ashley's transition but also mine! He is always there to answer questions and provide support. His willingness to help not only students, but student leaders on campus and being a role model is greatly appreciated.” 

Jessica Ruprecht said, “Jay is the best, always loved working with him, it’s impressive he finds the energy to do all these things.”

Morgan Marini said, “Our office has worked with Jay in a number of ways, from o-week to convocation and he is so enthusiastic, so committed, and eager to help us with our projects. Jay is such a team player, whenever we need volunteers his face always comes to mind.”

Congrats Jay and thanks for all your great work!

“G” Thanks! is a program within the GREAT at U of G initiative, focused on building a culture of gratitude, recognition, and appreciation at U of G. Each month, a new Kudoboard is open for nominations from the University community for faculty and staff who you want to appreciate, recognize, or show gratitude for.

Learn more by visiting the GREAT at U of G website

 

News Archive