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Majors & Degrees

Schuh named outstanding new professional in SDHEA

February 21, 2019

Working in higher education takes skill, knowledge, and a willingness to help others. Jordan Schuh, student support counselor and autism specialist at Dakota State University, has all those qualities, said Michelle Ruesink, director of student development and ADA director.

Ruesink nominated Schuh this year for a South Dakota Higher Education Association (SDHEA) award which honors new professionals in higher education. At the organization’s annual meeting earlier this month, Schuh was named the winner of the Marcus Boesen Memorial Award. 

This honor recognizes new professionals who have shown outstanding contributions to the overall development of students, to their educational institution and to SDHEA and/or student affairs. Nominees for this award must have an active SDHEA general membership and be within the first four years of working as a professional within higher education. 

Since joining the Student Success department in 2017, Schuh has developed and implemented a unique and innovative support program for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, called Strong. Schuh has also collaborated with DSU Athletic Department to create a pilot program which provides monthly support for baseball students. 

“Both of these programs have had a positive impact on student well-being and success on campus,” Ruesink said. 

Schuh also works with students with disabilities, providing support and services to meet individual needs. 

In addition to his work on campus, Schuh, who is a DSU alumnus, is a board member with the Madison Country Club, and volunteers at his church, Living Hope Church, in Madison. 

“Jordan’s service to our students has made a difference at our university, exemplified the mission of the university, and has positively impacted the people of our state,” Ruesink wrote in the nomination letter.