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“There are few people I can think of more deserving of such an award than Ben Reed. He is a creative, caring, and hardworking individual who devotes considerable effort to making the university Writing Center a welcoming, helpful, and inclusive place. During times of personal illness on my part, he has devoted time out of his already busy schedule to fill in for me, has supported my ideas to make the writing center a more colorful and welcoming physical and social space, and, as a leader, has been someone I can approach with absolute confidence. Ben doesn't just stay in his office--he frequently ventures out to take on the roles of consultant, front desk associate, and outreach coordinator when needed. He has actively sought out opportunities to build connections between the Writing Center and other organizations on campus that serve students, and he has ventured into many a classroom to promote our services while equipping us as consultants to do the same.”
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“Ben is constantly stepping up to help with difficult situations that arise in the Writing Center. For example, just the other day, he found information about formatting for a writer that other consultants could not figure out. The depth of analysis of the situation and problem-solving that he uses on a daily basis is truly valuable to the Writing Center community.”
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“Working at the writing center this semester, Ben has been a great boss and often goes out of his way to support others. He's filled in when I can't find someone to cover my desk shift, and has sat down to talk with others when they're struggling. Overall Ben is a great guy and I think he's fully deserving of this award.”
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“Ben is an absolutely wonderful Associate Director of the UNL Writing Center. He always comes to work with a positive attitude and is willing to help whenever he can. Moreover, Ben works incredibly hard to create a safe and welcoming work environment for employees by listening to concerns and issues, advocating for self-care practices, and providing encouragement and praise during shifts. During my time at the Writing Center, Ben has always been someone I felt I could turn to during times of need and times of celebration. I am so incredibly grateful for all the work he does, especially the work behind the scenes. The Writing Center would truly not be the same without his support and guidance.”
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“Ben is constantly there for all of us hourly consultants at the Writing Center. Especially as an undergraduate, Ben made me feel like I was capable and supported at my job. Ben is available at a moment's notice to step in when I've been sick, and he is just across the hall for any questions or concerns I've had.”
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“Ben is an extraordinary writing center leader who is dedicated to the work, generous with his time and energy, and goes above and beyond to ensure that the work we do at the Writing Center is thoughtful, engaged, and consistent. He's an incredible team member and is more than deserving of this award.”
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“Ben is a really wonderful WC asst. director! He goes out of his way to support the consultant staff members as well as the writers he works directly with. As a consultant myself, Ben has been an invaluable resource--he is knowledgeable about best practices, and exceptionally kind when giving constructive feedback after observing consultations. Ben always volunteers first to cover shifts for when I'm sick or out of town and is often seen picking up front desk shifts too. He tends to also take the lead on WC outreach and workshops. When I assisted a presentation on research abstracts with him, he handled all the prep work and created a plan. He is really great and deserving of this award!”
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“He is such a great Associate Director! He is always there to answer questions, to step up and cover shifts, to make sure others respect consultants’ boundaries, and to give advice. He also makes sure to regularly check in and get to know consultants as people first - truly a great listener!”
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“Ben is constantly putting others before himself. He always makes sure that the Writing Center is running smoothly and that it is a warm and welcoming place for people of all kinds. He very selflessly takes over shifts when consultants or front desk assistants need help last minute. He can always be depended on for professional or emotional support and goes above and beyond to ensure that all feel comfortable in the Writing Center and get the support they need to succeed.”
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“As a consultant working in the writing center, Ben, as the assistant director, is really supportive of my work. He is always patient in listening to me and offering me advice to improve my work and promote the community. He is also willing to reply to my message during my nighttime work hours, which I really appreciate.”
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“I work in the WC and have a chronic illness. In November I had surgery and Ben supported me through reducing my schedule and being transparent with me without asking any questions. I truly have felt supported to work here.”