
Providing Opportunities for Staff
The Professional Development Committee (PDC) provides opportunities for staff within the Division of Student Affairs to grow and develop in their professions. The PDC comprises 15 staff members who serve on one of three subcommittees:
- Professional Learning and Development
- Staff Appreciation and Service
- Awards and Recognition
More information about subcommittees, membership and service opportunities can be found in the PDC bylaws. A list of PDC members and their contact information is available online.
Awards & Recognition
STAR Award
Short for “Staff That Are Remarkable,” the STAR Award is given annually to honor the outstanding performance of professionals within the Division of Student Affairs at The University of Texas at Dallas. The STAR Award recognizes staff who have exceeded expectations and demonstrated excellence in one of the following categories:
- Leadership
- Advising and supporting students
- Assessment, evaluation and research
- Service to staff, a department or the division

All STAR Award recipients are considered finalists for the Student Affairs Staff Member of the Year, who is chosen by the Student Affairs Executive Leadership Team. The STAR Award and the Staff Member of the Year Award are presented at the annual Student Affairs Awards Ceremony in May.
Out of this World
Out of this World is a monthly recognition program to highlight everyday excellence — the little things our staff do that make a big difference. Recognitions may be submitted online anytime.
Nominations
Make a nomination for the STAR Award.
Out of this World: Recognize a colleague in Student Affairs for everyday excellence.
Awards 2023-24
STAR Award
- Asiah Claiborne
- Lacey Garner
- Dr. Dan Goodwin
- Lisa Koontz
- Ashley Shoemake
Student Affairs Staff Member of the Year
- Lacey Garner
Programs & Events
The Staff Appreciation and Service Subcommittee hosts events throughout the year to show support for Student Affairs professionals and encourage staff interaction. Details are shared with the division through the Student Affairs listserv and the SA Professional Development channel on Microsoft Teams.
Professional Development Grant
The Division of Student Affairs offers a grant to staff members who are interested in attending a conference, workshop or other professional development opportunity that falls outside of their traditional job responsibilities. The grant program is designed to encourage staff to explore other areas within the student affairs profession. All travel must be approved by a staff member’s immediate supervisor prior to submitting the grant application. Grant recipients must give a presentation to the division detailing the key takeaways of the development opportunity.
Student Affairs Professional Development Teams Channel: Receive updates and information through Microsoft Teams.
Student Affairs Professional Development Grant Application