Jim Benes, global exchange coordinator, is the most recent CEHS Staff Star Award recipient. Benes is in his second year in the role and has quickly made an impact in the college.
Benes’ proactive nature has resulted in several new initiatives that have promoted international education and study abroad in the college. When he overheard a staff member lacking confidence to try an international restaurant on their own, Benes coordinated a collegewide “Dine & Discover” event to make it easy for people to explore something new.
He also started a Summer Travelogue Series to feature staff in the college who had recently experienced a CEHS education abroad trip or who had grown up internationally.
“These were members of our community who might not otherwise have been invited to share their experiences with their colleagues,” said a nominator. “These events were eagerly anticipated and well attended.”
Benes has elevated the profile of international education and education abroad in the college by initiating new marketing material for students, faculty and staff. Working with the Pixel Lab, he developed display banners for study abroad trips to increase the visibility and participation in programs.
His involvement in the new international student teaching program is an excellent example of him going above and beyond. “It is outside his direct responsibilities, but he worked to make sure everything was lined up for the first two students who are student teaching in Costa Rica now,” said a nominator. “He even hosted a surprise send-off for these students with the faculty and staff who had worked on creating this opportunity and had helped the first two students apply and prepare.”
“Jim genuinely likes and respect people,” said another nominator. “He listens to what they’re trying to do, and he works hard to support them. He’s also gifted at pulling people together to help make things happen.”
An example provided was his involvement in the development of the CEHS international studies minor. He gathered a CEHS team to craft a campaign (online and in print) that helped inform students of this option. As typical, he deflects praise for success to others and gives everyone credit for accomplishments.
One faculty member said, “When I go to Jim with an idea about a study abroad offering or for help with a group of international travelers coming to UNL, he NEVER focuses on the problems, likely hang-ups, or difficulties. He asks what he can do to help, makes suggestions when I’m out of ideas, and volunteers to be a part of the program and to be a part of the solution.”
Congratulations to Jim Benes for receiving the Staff Star Award. If you know of a staff member who you believe goes above and beyond their scope of duties, make sure and nominate them for a CEHS Star Award at https://go.unl.edu/staraward.