For outstanding contributions in Oakland University’s Department of Athletics, Holly Kerstner has been named winner of the 2014 Phyllis Law Googasian Award. Kerstner serves as assistant director of Athletics for student-athlete services and as senior woman administrator (SWA), the highest ranking female in an NCAA athletic department. She has made a positive impact on the lives of many female student-athletes, according to Athletic Academic Adviser Evan Dermidoff, who nominated her for the award.
“Holly has been a mentor and tutor to many female student athletes over the years that have experienced academic difficulties,” Dermidoff wrote in a letter on Kerstner’s behalf. “With her care, understanding and patience, she has not only helped these young women graduate from college, she has made a meaningful difference in their lives.”
He added that Kerstner “has provided internship and job opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students in our department to help prepare them for similar roles once they leave OU.”
Kerstner, who has worked at OU since 2006, says her job presents many opportunities to shape the lives of OU student-athletes.
“When I see one of my student-athletes reach any one of their goals it reminds me of the impact we have on their lives here at Oakland,” she said. “It can be a realization of a major choice, an experience that changed the course of their initial career direction, the way in which they learn more about themselves or the impact they can make in the community. Each day I am reminded that my actions and attitude can be an influence on a person I come in contact with, which is a responsibility filled with rich rewards.”
The Googasian Award honors a member of the Oakland University community who has contributed to the advancement of women at OU through distinguished leadership, scholarship, advocacy, mentoring and program development. The university and the American Council on Education Network for Women Leaders jointly present the award, which was established in 1992 in honor of Trustee Emerita Phyllis Law Googasian.
Kerstner will be recognized during the 22nd annual Phyllis Law Googasian Luncheon at noon on Tuesday, March 18 in the Oakland Center Banquet Rooms. Tickets are $15. Guest names and payments must be submitted to the Executive Events Office in 119 Wilson Hall by Tuesday, March 11. For more information, contact Crystal Bradford at (248) 370-2053.
For outstanding contributions in Oakland University’s Department of Athletics,