UMD News Releases

UMD student Erik Stromstad has been named National Student Employee of the Year. He was named UMD Student Employee of the Year in January and went on to win the Minnesota state title and the Regional title. Erik is a senior Communication major from Fargo, North Dakota and is employed by UMD Kirby Student Center as manager of the UMD "Late Night Kirby" program.

In this position, Erik directs the organization and production of events such as band concerts, movie nights, and games for UMD students with a budget of approximately $71,000. During Fall semester 2002, "Late Night Kirby" produced 43 different events over a fourteen week period with over 4500 UMD students attending. During Spring semester 2003 the program will present 53 additional events with an expected attendance of approximately 5600 students.

UMD Kirby Student Center Administrative Director Pat Keenan, who nominated Erik said, "As manager of "Late Night Kirby," Erik is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the program as well as managing a staff of student employees. He researches all the of the talent that performs at the events, negotiates the contracts, oversees the marketing of the program, and ensures adequate staffing at all of the events. When he graduates he will be very difficult to replace."

UMD will honor Erik at a luncheon April 16 at 11:30 a.m. in the UMD Tweed Museum of Art. A representative from the National Association for Student Employment Administrators will be present to award Erik a check for $1,000 and a plaque.

Students nominated for the title of UMD Student Employee of the Year can be either graduate or undergraduate students with at least six months on-the-job experience. Nominees are evaluated using five criteria: reliability, quality of work, initiative, professionalism, and uniqueness of contribution. UMD will recognize all student employees during National Student Employment Week April 14-18.

This is the second time that a UMD student has won the National Student Employee of the Year Award. In the 1998-1999 academic year, Justin Hallquist also won the state, regional, and national title. Justin was employed by the UMD Facilities Management Department.