Guy Hokanson, a systems administrator, programmer and adjunct lecturer, was named the Outstanding Staff Award winner for the professional level. Francisco Valenzuela, a fabrication technician, was named the Outstanding Staff winner for a staff member at the paraprofessional or office support level.
Two staff members have been honored for their contributions to the success of the NDSU College of Engineering.
Guy Hokanson was named the Outstanding Staff Award winner for the professional level. Hokanson started at NDSU in 2004 as a programmer for the Center of Science and Math Education. He joined the Department of Computer Science as a programmer and analyst in 2007 and transitioned to his current role as the systems administrator, programmer and adjunct lecturer in 2016.
“Guy is a devoted and highly valued member in our department who manages all aspects of the computing infrastructure and provides support to faculty, staff and students,” said Simone Ludwig, professor and chair of computer science. “His commitment to the department and service goes far beyond what is listed in his job description and is exemplified by his involvement in many aspects of university and departmental operations such as the development of teaching resources, supervision of Capstone student groups, serving as the Director for the Science Olympiad for more than 10 years, and technical liaison to Advance FORWARD committee.”
The College of Engineering’s other Outstanding Staff Award, for a staff member at the paraprofessional or office support level, went to Francisco Valenzuela.
Valenzuela has served as the fabrication technician in the Department of Mechanical Engineering since 2020 and spends his days assisting students, faculty and staff on their projects and research. Colleagues say in addition to his wealth of knowledge, Valenzuela’s geniality, genuineness and compassion have made outstanding contributions to the success of the college.
“Francisco is probably one of the most helpful people I know. He is always looking for ways to make work easier for everyone,” said Rob Sailer, senior test engineer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. “He often stays late when the end of the semester comes around and our workload gets heavy. He has a service minded approach and wants to get projects done as soon as possible so the students can meet their deadlines. At times he has even come in on weekends to assist.”
Hokanson and Valenzuela were honored at the College of Engineering’s Scholarship and Awards Reception on Sept. 19.
